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$75 Thorens vs. $2K+ Michell...is this possible?

Hi all,

I've had my first turntable ever (a Michell Tecnodec purchased used with a Benz Glider medium ouput purchased new) for a couple of months now, and although it has sounded good at times and sometimes even great, overall it hasn't been what I've expected based upon the reputation that vinyl has over digital. Sometimes my table sounds smothered or rolled off in the highs, and sometimes I hear what I can best describe as noise/static/distortion on vocals when they get loud. Things have gotten a bit better with what I assume is break-in of the cartridge and some minor tweaking of VTA.

Yesterday, I purchased a well used Thorens TD 160 with an Audio Technica AT125LC. The cartridge is riding so low (I assume from use) that at times the body rubs on the record surface. I haven't had the time to do extensive direct comparisons, but the essence of what I expected from vinyl is here with the Thorens. An overall smooth, natural coherence that is emminently enjoyable to listen to. Natural, airy highs. Solid, but not overdone firm bass.

Again, I have not done direct comparisons, but I don't hear any of the downsided I heard with my Michell. There may not be quite the detail or soundstage width, but I feel like it's an overall more enjoyable listening experience.

I'd love input from the more experienced here to help me understand what's happening here.

Thanks much,
Paul
pj234

Showing 1 response by jc2000

jc2000
92 posts
 
Your question gets into one of the big "fights" in audio—"New is Better" vs. "Vintage is Better." I don't feel like dealing with that particular argument today—I have enough stress in my life at the moment as it is. However, in my own experience, I have noticed that some vintage equipment will perform better (by my standards, at least) than some newer equipment.

That said, it's a given that the two turntables will have a different sound. The design philosophies vary.

The cartridges will also have a big impact. In this case, you have two different cartridge companies AND two different technologies employed. It's possible that you might like the Technodec better if you had a different cartridge.

You might be interested in an article on the Thorends TD 150 & TD 160 that is on the Hi Fi World website. (http://www.hi-fiworld.co.uk/hfw/oldeworldehtml/thorenstd150.html). This article includes one line that shows you aren't crazy: "These decks offer a great deal for very little. Some friends of mine, who owned a Gyrodec, recently set up a TDl 60 as an interim measure while a new arm was fitted to the Michell. Result? The Thorens stayed and the Gyrodec was passed on - they realIy are that good." Note that the Gyrodec was also made by Michell.
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