Thorens TD-124 Vintage Turntable Customized by Schopper AG

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General:
Super high-end resto-build based on the venerable Thorens TD-124 performed by Schopper out of Switzerland.

This build would cost over $20k to assemble.

Featuring:
• Painted and overhauled TD-124 MKII drive by Schopper AG including too many upgrades to list.
• Artisan Fidelity, Long Base Panzerholtz plinth in a dark Bolivian rosewood/satin finish.
• LDA External Power Supply (Longdog Audio Limited Quartz Turntable Supply v2.0)
• Thomas Schick Liebenthal 12" Tonearm.
• Acoustical Systems Arche headshell.
• Custom arm board.
• Swissonor.ch non magnetic platter.
• Custom aluminum top platter.
• Origin Live platter mat.
• Custom RCA cables.
• Custom Acrylic Cover.
• Extra belt, fluids, fabric cover, and calibration tools.

No cartridge is included but you can choose from every model made by Sumiko or Hana. A Sumiko Starling, Sumiko Celebration 40, Hana Red or Blue would be a great choice.

Call to discuss options, or just add cartridge and calibration to your cart during checkout. 

You can also opt-in for our 12 step premium calibration process outlined here.

Included Accessories:
• Custom Protractor
• Spare Speed Controller Cable
• Spare Belt
• Original Style45 Adapter
• SPEC+ Analog Disc Sheet AP-UD1
• Cloth Cover
• Dust Cover

Brand Background:
Thorens is the oldest name in entertainment electronics, founded in 1883 by Hermann Thorens in Sainte-Croix, Switzerland. The brand is still worldwide known for its high-quality record players. 

Thorens is a formerly Swiss manufacturer of high-end audio equipment. Thorens is historically renowned for the range of phonographs (turntables) the manufacturer produces. In addition to audio playback equipment, Thorens is also a historical producer of harmonicas and cigarette lighters, most notably the button actuated "automatic lighter".

Cosmetic Condition:
8/10 = Very Good. Excellent front faceplate, one minor flaw on chassis side or top. See our detailed rating description here.

Working Condition:
Working perfectly and calibrated on our custom turntable calibration stand.

Included:
Exactly as pictured and described above.

Packing:
Will be packed using our highly developed in-house process and custom packing materials.

Testing Process:
First we try to identify any mechanical issues, particularly in the tonearm bearings. We check for freedom of movement or any resistance on both the horizontal and vertical range. There is a quick test for this which involves placing the table on its front edge and allowing the arm to swing freely like a pendulum. We then make any adjustments necessary to achieve minimal resistance and sometimes adjust the bearing pressure. On gimbal tonearms we inspect the cone tip with a magnifier.

We then assess the platter speed using one of several methods, the most accurate being playing a test tone on a test record and measuring the frequency output with a frequency counter or oscilloscope. We also utilize test equipment to measure the wow and flutter to ensure it is within spec. We do this for all speeds available for that particular model (33 RPM, 45 RPM, 78 RPM).

Adjustments are then made to achieve proper speed which will vary depending on the turntable's drive design. Some require an adjustment of an internal or external potentiometer, some will require a pulley or motor adjustment. We also inspect the platter bearing to ensure it is properly lubricated, keeping in mind that some bearings don't require lubrication at all

We then inspect the power supply and address any issues with overworked capacitors, particularly on Linn and later Thorens machines which tend to need attention.

On fully mechanical vintage tables like the Thorens TD-124 and Garrard 301/401 we will go thought the entire mechanism. Then replace any worn parts and lubricate all components necessary to ensure smooth operation, speed change, and low mechanical noise. 

When fitting a new phono cartridge we will go through our detailed calibration process which can involve as many as 12 steps depending on the tonearm design. We perform this work on our custom turntable calibration rig which was developed in-house.

Some of these steps include:
• Pivot to Spindle Adjustment
• Tracing Force
• Anti-Skate
• Tonearm Height
• Lifter Height
• VTA (Vertical Tracking Angle)
• Azimuth
• Stylus Distance and Overhang

We then do a critical listening test using our test records and our test system to ensure proper sonics.