Technics or Thorens, need suggestions


I've been looking to get into Analog for quite some time now. So long that I've been collecting Vinyl with a dream of finally getting a nice TT.  Analog is an uncharted territory for me. I've been researching on my free time and have come up with a couple possibilities. 

Thorens TD 1600 
Technics 1200G

Budget is around 3-5k without a cartridge . I have Mcintosh C2600 which I intend to use for phono. 

I like the aesthetics of Thorens much more than Technics. 

My research showed that Technics is a superb TT for the price. How do these two compare? 

my systems: Mcintosh MC452/C2600/Sonus Faber Elipsa
                     mastersound 845 integrated/ diapason adamantes 3
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Showing 3 responses by stereo5

To the OP, I am running the Technics SL1200G with a a Mac C2500 and MC302 amp.  The Technics is the best turntable to grace my system. Previously, I had a VPI Prime, VPI Scout, VPI HW III and a Rega Planer 3. The Technics is the best of the bunch and if you just want to listen to records, it is a set and forget turntable. 
Back in the 70’s, when I was selling audio retail, I bought a Thorens TD125AB MKII turntable on a salesman accommodation at 50% off retail. I used it with a Shure V15 Type2 MM cartridge. I liked the table but hated the cuing with the Thorens tonearm. I ditched it and bought a Phillips GA212 Turntable. Come to think of it, I didn’t have the Phillips very long. Eventually, I bought a JVC Direct Drive turntable (I remember I paid $850.00 for it) in 1978. I loved that turntable.

The Technics SL1200G is the best turntable I have ever owned, and just coming from a VPI Prime which cost me the same money, it is a night and day difference to me. The PRAT is much better, it is the first turntable that sounds better than my Esoteric SACD player and believe me, that is saying a lot. The cuing is so precise, you don’t hear any kind of needle chatter, the bass has true authority, and the music flows so easily. I expect that it is my final turntable.   The best part is once you have the cartridge dialed in, you do not have to futz with turntable, you can just spin vinyl.
I am interested in the oscillating eddy currents as well as I have a 1200G. Gosh, what am I missing?😂