
( Brand: Thorens ), ( Model: TD-160S ), ( Country/region Of Manufacture: Switzerland )
Step back in time with the Thorens TD-160S SME 3009 Classic, a masterful blend of vintage elegance and modern precision, that offers an unparalleled audiophile experience. This turntable is not just a piece of equipment; it's a testament to the rich history of high-fidelity sound reproduction.
Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, the TD-160S SME 3009 Classic boasts a sleek and timeless design, reminiscent of the iconic Thorens 3009 series. The solid aluminum plinth, the smooth and silent synchronous motor, and the precision-engineered tonearm, all work in harmony to create a soundstage that is nothing short of mesmerizing.
The turntable's SME 3009 tonearm, an industry standard for over four decades, is a marvel of engineering. Its smooth and stable operation, coupled with its ability to accommodate a wide range of cartridges, ensures a precise and accurate tracking, resulting in a sound that is rich, detailed, and incredibly lifelike.
The TD-160S SME 3009 Classic comes equipped with a high-quality belt drive system, offering smooth and consistent speed stability. The heavy aluminum platter, combined with the damping materials used, ensures minimal resonance and vibration, resulting in a clean and clear sound.
This turntable is more than just a musical instrument; it's a gateway to a world of music that is raw, authentic, and unadulterated. With its timeless design, superior build quality, and unmatched sound performance, the Thorens TD-160S SME 3009 Classic is truly a classic in every sense of the word. Whether you're a seasoned audiophile or a music enthusiast looking to experience vinyl in its purest form, the TD-160S SME 3009 Classic is an investment that will last a lifetime.
The Thorens TD 160 S SME 3009 Classic turntable is a high-end audiophile setup, known for its iconic design and high-quality sound. Here are some pros and cons to consider before making a purchase:
Pros:1. Heritage: Thorens is a well-respected brand with a long history in the audio industry, and the TD 160 S SME 3009 Classic is a classic model that has stood the test of time.
2. Build Quality: The turntable is built with high-quality materials and showcases excellent craftsmanship. The heavy, cast aluminum chassis helps reduce vibration, contributing to clearer sound.
3. SME 3009 Tonearm: The SME 3009 tonearm is a popular choice among audiophiles for its precise tracking and adjustability.
4. Sound Quality: The TD 160 S SME 3009 Classic is known for delivering a rich, warm, and detailed sound.
5. Upgradeability: Many users appreciate the ability to upgrade different components, such as the cartridge, to further enhance the sound quality.
Cons:1. Cost: The Thorens TD 160 S SME 3009 Classic is a premium product, and its price may be prohibitive for some buyers.
2. Setup: The turntable requires careful setup, including proper alignment of the tonearm and cartridge, to ensure optimal performance.
3. Size: The TD 160 S SME 3009 Classic is a large and heavy piece of equipment, which may make it difficult to move or store.
4. Potential Need for Service: Like any mechanical device, the turntable may require regular servicing to maintain its performance.
Conclusion:The Thorens TD 160 S SME 3009 Classic is an excellent choice for those seeking a high-quality, high-fidelity turntable with a rich history and a loyal following. However, its cost, size, and setup requirements may make it more suitable for serious audiophiles or those with a dedicated space for their audio equipment. If you are a beginner or have limited budget, it may be worth considering other options that offer better value for money. If, however, you are looking for a high-end turntable and are willing to invest in a quality setup, the Thorens TD 160 S SME 3009 Classic is an excellent choice.
Note: this offer does not include the cartridge seen in photo. This is a fully working TD-160S, the super edition of note, I broke few metal leads off turntable wires while back and have gripped wire against poles using as opposed to solder holding. There are no broken parts, everything works great. I have not had to make any modifications from stock.
This arm does not have a removable head shell, which was popular option, but selected in case. Packing screws locked and platter disassembled. This is a belt-driven classic with simple, elegant design capable of amazing playback.
The power adapter is a genuine Thorens as well. The sme 3009 appears to me be from improved series, as is made obvious by weights. I can only assume i'm the second owner.
It works incredibly smoothly and looks like new. I have tuned the suspension, replaced belt and tried out various carts on it.
I've been using this for about 10 years now. I'm not good enough with soldering iron to attempt a fix, which isn't really needed anyhow. Inside and out. I purchased this second hand from the estate of an audiophile without boxes manuals.
I've photographed all the details of this design, so you know precisely what you'll be getting. Perhaps one less connect between cart and amplifier makes for narrowly better sonic.