Thorens TD-316?

This table has a light to med arm. as long as you stick to Higher compliance catridges you should be good to go . Like the Grado reference Low output wood body. Or the Clear Audio,Ortofon,nagaoka, MM's .

I had the semi auto version, the TD-18. I found it sounded a bit leaden and plodding. If you like a smooth sound that sounds a little slow, it might suit.

I was planning on using it with a grado reference sonata I already have. that should be a decent match, right?

I wouldn't. The arm isn't great. An Audio Technical 95e would be a better bet.

Grado Sonata would be an excellent match.

Thanks for the replies. Anyone think that this turntable might not be worth purchasing?

IMHO, it's a great table for that price range.

Mediocre performer, I said farewell 25 years ago.
Try a Japanese direct drive from the Golden Age the late 70´s/early 80´s, however avoid the cheapest models!
Also worth trying a idler driven Lenco 75/78. Good luck !.

I picked up a TD 318 a few months ago for my second system and have been very pleasantly surprised how good it sounds... but my expectations were realistic for a $120 vintage table. I tried an old Dynavector MC on it but like the sound of the Shure V15 Vx w SAS stylus better. Actually listening to it right now... the Decemberists the Hazards of Love

I did dampened the platter a bit and played with the tonearm angle very slightly.

The deal unfortunately fell through the floor, as another buyer beat me out to the turntable. No problem, though, I decided to pick up a used Rega P25, which I'm greatly enjoying!

I'm using a TD-316 with a Thorens RDC Platter. Still trying to decide if I like the Grado Red or Shure M97xE as a match. Very happy for the price as I have about $500 in the kit.

My TD-316 is now 30 years old and still working perfect and sounds really great for the price. It is like 1/30 the price of my main table but it really is a fun table to hear.