The entirely new design of TD 1600 and TD 1601 is inspired by the original construction of the TD 160. But it elevates the principle of the sub-chassis to a whole new level thanks to various technical innovations. For example, the conical springs on which the sub-chassis rests are filled with a resonance-absorbing foam to quickly soothe any vibration. The bearings for the platter and tonearm are mounted on a solid aluminium plate, which provides great stability to the entire construction. The platter bearing itself is braced against the base plate with a thin steel thread via a guide, in exact extension of the axis between motor pulley and platter axle. In this way, even the slightest wobble of the sub-chassis caused by the motor’s driving forces acting on the platter is eliminated. It can only move up and down in a piston-like manner – a direction of motion that does not disturb the tonearm when it senses the intricate musical details in the record groove. Especially when using an MC pick-up, the balanced XLR output, with which both models are equipped, can then bring its advantages to bear.
The beating heart of a turntable is and always will be the motor. This is why Thorens have paid particular attention to the new synchronous motor when they designed TD 1600 and TD 1601. Intelligent electronics control the motor and ensure that the selected platter speed is precisely maintained at all times.
In order to be able to provide the motor with sufficient power whenever needed, they have developed an elaborate 16V power supply using a large toroidal transformer; and outsourced it to an external enclosure to get the maximum sound performance out of the new turntables.
For the tonearm Thorens equipped TD 1600 and TD 1601 with their tried and tested TP92. This classic 9-incher is made from a highly precise and internally dampened aluminium tube. An anti-resonance ring mounted on the outside of the tube in a carefully calculated position additionally quietens the tonearm tube. The TP92 is thus ideally equipped to be fitted with all kinds of high-quality pickups; the scaled counterweight makes it easy to precisely set the required tracking force.
The TD 1601 is characterized by a completely new feature compared to its legendary predecessor, which is unique in this class today: Thorens have equipped it with an elaborately designed and patented tonearm lift with contactless auto shut-off. Completely independent of the turntable’s other electronics, a miniature motor located directly in the lift itself gently lowers and raises the tonearm into and out of the groove at the touch of a button. An opto-electronically triggered end switch stops the platter and lifts the arm when the needle has reached the runout groove. This spares the delicate stylus and the nerves of its owner alike.
Joseph –
Such a handsome table! A smooth operator too – the electric auto-lift works as promised so one needs only place the disc, cue up the needle, and push the button. RAW ordered this for me and then mounted an MC cart I had bought separately.