THORENS 12135 Td Tone Arm TD-520 TP90L

( Brand: Thorens ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: 12135 ), ( Model: TD-520 ), ( Cartridge: Grace Lc-ofc ), ( Country Of Origin: Germany )

Review THORENS 520 Original Tone Arm In Usa

The Thorens 1900 Series Tone Arm, specifically the **TD 520 TP90L**, stands as a refined and meticulously engineered masterpiece designed for audiophiles who demand both precision and elegance in their vinyl listening experience. This tone arm is a testament to Thorens legacy of Swiss craftsmanship, blending cutting-edge technology with timeless design to deliver unparalleled performance across a wide range of record players. The **TP90L** variant is part of the **TD 520** series, which is renowned for its exceptional tracking accuracy, low mass, and superior compliance, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a balance between high-end performance and practical usability.

At the heart of the Thorens TD 520 TP90L lies its **90-gram tracking force**, a carefully calibrated setting that ensures optimal stylus contact with the groove while minimizing distortion and wear on both the record and the cartridge. The **TP90L** designation indicates a **low-mass, high-compliance design**, which translates to enhanced tracking ability, reduced surface noise, and a more natural, dynamic sound signature. This tone arm is equipped with Thorens proprietary **Twin-Pivot** mounting system, a feature that eliminates lateral and vertical tracking errors, ensuring that the stylus follows the groove with absolute precision. The **anti-skating mechanism** is also finely tuned, allowing for effortless adjustment and eliminating the need for constant manual corrections, which is particularly beneficial for long listening sessions.

The **TD 520** series is built with a **stainless steel cantilever**, a material known for its rigidity and resistance to thermal expansion, which helps maintain consistent tracking performance across varying temperatures. The cantilever s design is both sleek and functional, with a **low-profile, aerodynamic shape** that reduces air resistance and minimizes vibrations, contributing to a cleaner, more accurate sound reproduction. The **TP90L** variant further enhances this with its **optimized compliance**, allowing the stylus to move more freely within the groove while maintaining stability, which is crucial for capturing the subtleties of modern and vintage recordings alike.

One of the standout features of the Thorens TD 520 TP90L is its **versatility**, as it is compatible with a wide range of high-quality cartridges, including both moving-magnet (MM) and moving-coil (MC) types. This flexibility allows audiophiles to tailor their setup to their specific preferences, whether they prioritize warmth and fullness with an MM cartridge or the extended high-frequency response and detailed imaging of an MC cartridge. The tone arm s **adjustable counterweight system** ensures that the tracking force can be precisely balanced, accommodating different cartridge weights and stylus types without compromising performance.

The **TP90L** is also engineered with **minimalist aesthetics** in mind, featuring a **matte black finish** that complements any high-end audio setup while maintaining a professional and understated appearance. The build quality is nothing short of exemplary, with **precision-machined components** and **high-grade materials** that contribute to its durability and longevity. The **anti-vibration base** is another thoughtful inclusion, designed to reduce external disturbances and further isolate the tone arm from unwanted noise, ensuring that the listener experiences the purest possible audio signal.

For those who appreciate both form and function, the Thorens TD 520 TP90L offers an exceptional blend of **technical excellence and user-friendly design**. Its **easy-to-adjust counterweight system**, **smooth operation**, and **superior tracking accuracy** make it a favorite among audiophiles who demand nothing less than perfection. Whether used in a dedicated high-fidelity setup or as part of a more comprehensive audio system, this tone arm delivers a listening experience that is both immersive and technically flawless. The Thorens TD 520 TP90L is not merely a tone arm; it is a cornerstone of any serious vinyl enthusiast s collection, embodying the spirit of Swiss engineering and the pursuit of sonic excellence.

### **Thorens 12135 TD 520 TP90L Tone Arm: Pros and Cons**

#### **Pros**

1. **High-Quality Construction** The Thorens 12135 is a well-engineered turntable known for its durability and precision. The TP90L tone arm is a premium addition, featuring a lightweight yet stiff design with a 90-gram effective mass, which helps reduce distortion and improve tracking accuracy.

2. **Excellent Tracking Performance** The TP90L tone arm is designed for high-fidelity playback, with a low compliance (0.9 mN/m) and minimal distortion. This makes it well-suited for audiophiles who demand accurate sound reproduction.

3. **Compatibility with Thorens Turntables** The 12135 TD 520 is a mid-range model in Thorens lineup, and the TP90L tone arm is specifically optimized for it, ensuring a balanced and stable setup.

4. **Adjustable Counterweight System** The tone arm includes a precise counterweight adjustment, allowing for fine-tuning of tracking force and anti-skating, which is essential for optimal performance.

5. **Stylus Options** Thorens offers various high-quality cartridges (such as the Thorens 12135 s stock cartridge or aftermarket options like the Ortofon 2M Red) that pair well with the TP90L arm, providing flexibility for different listening preferences.

6. **Aesthetic and Build Quality** The Thorens 12135 has a classic, high-end appearance with a sturdy metal base, giving it a premium feel that appeals to collectors and audiophiles.

7. **Good Value for Mid-Range Audiophiles** Compared to some high-end turntables, the Thorens 12135 with the TP90L tone arm offers excellent performance at a relatively accessible price point.

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#### **Cons**

1. **Not a Complete High-End System** While the Thorens 12135 is a solid mid-range turntable, it lacks some of the refinements found in higher-end models, such as active damping, advanced anti-vibration systems, or ultra-low distortion components.

2. **Stock Cartridge Limitations** The turntable s stock cartridge may not be as high-performance as aftermarket options, and some users may need to upgrade it for optimal sound quality.

3. **Weight and Stability Considerations** The Thorens 12135 is heavier than some entry-level turntables, which can be an advantage for stability but may also make it less portable.

4. **Learning Curve for Setup** Achieving the best performance requires proper alignment, tracking force adjustment, and anti-skating calibration, which may be intimidating for beginners.

5. **Limited Aftermarket Support** While Thorens is a respected brand, it does not have the same level of aftermarket parts and upgrades as some competitors (e.g., Rekordvinyl, Pro-Ject, or Technics).

6. **Potential for Wear Over Time** Like any mechanical device, the tone arm and cartridge will degrade with heavy use, requiring eventual replacement or maintenance.

7. **Price Fluctuations** Used models can vary significantly in price, and the cost of the TP90L tone arm may push the total investment higher than expected for some buyers.

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### **Conclusion and Recommendation**

The **Thorens 12135 TD 520 with the TP90L tone arm** is an excellent choice for audiophiles who want a **reliable, mid-range turntable with high-quality tracking performance** without investing in a top-tier system. It strikes a balance between affordability and precision, making it suitable for both casual listeners and serious collectors who appreciate classic design and solid engineering.

- Those who already own a Thorens 12135 and want to upgrade their tone arm.

- Audiophiles who prioritize tracking accuracy and stylus performance.

- Users who value a durable, well-built turntable with a classic aesthetic.

- Beginners who may struggle with setup and maintenance.

- Those seeking the absolute lowest distortion or most advanced features (e.g., active damping, high-end cartridges).

- Buyers on a tight budget who can find better entry-level alternatives.

If you are looking for a **turntable that delivers excellent sound quality with a premium tone arm at a reasonable price**, the Thorens 12135 TD 520 paired with the TP90L is a **strong choice**. However, if you are new to turntables, consider starting with a simpler model to learn the basics before investing in a more refined system. For those who already have a Thorens 12135, the TP90L is a worthwhile upgrade for better tracking performance.

Details:

The cartridge installed is Clear Audio Virtuoso with a relatively new aftermarket Audio-Technical replacement stylus. The power supply is not Thorens branded. I was going to add some detoxed with lubricant make it more easily adjustable but decided against when thinking that the extra tightness might be what is keeping this table from seeming never needing small adjustments. Aftermarket dust cover has a crack as well small portion that needs to be re glued.

Are part of the. The speed is rock solid. No free auditions and no cold feet buyers. Also has the Thorens stock long TP90L Tone Arm installed along with a Cards RCA wiring and ground block on back side.

Table is in excellent shape and works perfectly. The cartridge is missing the name badge however I MIGHT be able to find small Send along with table so you can re glue it. This is a very hard to find table here in the USA. See pictures.

However the speed adjustment mechanism is a little tight. Much better described then when I purchased it.

part #: 12135 prices

• $129.99-$2200.00

specifications vintagerecordplaygo:

• brand: Thorens
• mpn: 12135
• model: Td-520
• cartridge: Grace Lc-ofc
• country of origin: Germany

shipping vintagerecordplaygo:

• service: UPS Ground
• transit: 4-10 Days
• class: Standard
• carrier: UPS
• type: Fixed
• cost: $0.00

returns vintagerecordplaygo:

• policy: Returns Accepted
• paid by: Buyer
• method: Money back
• time: 14 Days

seller vintagerecordplaygo:

• rating: 100.0%
• # reviews: 2889
• city: New Braunfels, Texas

offer vintagerecordplaygo:

• availability: In Stock
• options: Ship-to-home
• started: May 8, 2026
• quantity: 1
• sold: 0

general vintagerecordplaygo:

• condition: Used
• Vintage Electronics > Vintage Audio Video > Vintage Record Players

payments vintagerecordplaygo:

• credit card: Discover
• other
• wallet: Paypal

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