Turntable Tweaking

Posted by: Steve G on 14 January 2002

I'm currently using a Thorens TD160MkII which I purchased cheap on Ebay. It came fitted with a modified RB250 (it's fitted with the counterweight and stub from an Audio Technica arm) and an Audio Technica AT110E cartridge. The turntable is also fitted with some compliant feet and a dodgy slab of wood acting to change VTA on the arm.

The turntable sounds surprisingly good like this and so far all I've done is put it on a wallshelf (Wallnut II) and change cartridges (I'm alternating between a Linn K5 and an Ortofon MC1-Turbo) but I've heard that the TD160 can be tweaked in a number of ways, including the use of Linn LP12 bits and pieces. Doing this sounds like a bit of fun and may help my understanding of turntables so I was wondering what can be done and if anyone has any advice.

Regards
Steve

Posted on: 14 January 2002 by Tony L
quote:
I've heard that the TD160 can be tweaked in a number of ways…

The ones that I can instantly recall are first to dump the rubber mat for a felt one (obviously adjust the VTA to compensate), and ditch the foam inserts in the subchassis springs. I believe Linn springs can be used here to some benefit. I would advise stripping, cleaning, and re-lubricating the main baring, a 80 or 90 weight motor oil should work fine here (its what Rega recommend for the P9), Linn oil is a option too. Years ago there was also a real trend to damp and solidify the Thorens plinth with all kind of things - Blu-Tac, lead, etc. Might be worth a play about, but listen carefully to make sure whatever you do really is an improvement.

Setting the TD160 up is incredibly similar to setting up a LP12, so if you want a guide there are a couple on my site (see my profile).

That block of wood VTA adjuster sounds a bit iffy, I would suggest replacing it with a good quality aluminium washer or even investigating the Expresimo VTA adjuster ( www.expressmachining.com ). I use their Heavy Weight on my P9 and its great, might be worth considering if you lack confidence in the AT weight mod your arm has.

Can you post a picture of the deck / arm?

Tony.

Posted on: 14 January 2002 by Tony L
quote:
I digress but do you know of any dealers who will supply Linn springs/grommets to users rather than insisting on doing all the work (and no doubt advising all sorts of upgrade paths)?

I can't think of any in particular, but I can't understand why any dealer wouldn't. They want you, their potential customer to be happy. I assume that the majority would certainly sell springs / grommets etc once they realise you will simply go else where until you find a dealer that will… I have certainly bought Linn oil and belts at dealers in the past. www.bada.co.uk is a good source of dealer phone numbers.

Tony.