Since writing that two years ago I got my TD 203 turntable back from the shop long ago. It was still a little off so I gave it another try, turning the screws as gently as I could. The main problem was that each tiny turn made a relatively big change in the RPM, but I eventually got it as close as I could and I left it alone since then. If it had an easier adjustment I'd check it and readjust often, but now I don't want to even try since it's working OK and my warranty is long over. Not a bad sounding TT. I wish my digital sounded as good. Luckily I live near a used vinyl shop with very good selections on the one dollar table.
Problem with Thorens TD-203 speed adjustment screws
My Thorens TD-203 was rotating around 2% too fast (33.9 RPM) a few months ago, so I tried to adjust the little adjustment screw on the bottom of the table. I wound up getting no speed change but apparently ruining the screw. I just brought it in to the store's service department because it's still under warranty and they said the potentiometer was broken and the motor has to be replaced. I saw some videos that showed the adjustment done "live"--with the platter rotating. I tried to adjust the screw with the power off and by tipping the table up. I later found some messages that said this adjustment is very tricky and breaking the potentiometer is common.
Is there any advice about this other than never attempt a speed adjustment? Do you have to do it in real time or can you turn the screw a little bit and measure RPM after that? I used an RPM app on my phone and that seemed to work OK.
Is there any advice about this other than never attempt a speed adjustment? Do you have to do it in real time or can you turn the screw a little bit and measure RPM after that? I used an RPM app on my phone and that seemed to work OK.
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