Thorens TD124 Tips

 

Cheap and EZ

Neat P58H/Shield MO19

This experiment was inspired by the spring-mounted motor on my Neat P58H.

Realistic MKVIII

Even if the rubber grommets on the MKVIII are still supple and intact, I replaced them with 302 stainless steel compression (1/2" x 0.600") conical springs, Grainger part no. 1NDB4 and heard a significant reduction in noise.

Left = Neat P58H original
Right = 1NDB4

Heck if it works with the Japanese idlers, it should also work with the TD124. So I ordered smaller conical springs from zorotools on eBay for the TD124 and TD124II.

1NCY2 = 5/16" H x 0.48"

Be careful removing/installing the circlips. They can fly across the room, along with expletives.😁

1NCW4 = 1/2" H x 0.48"  

Some may argue that the "springy" motor mount can introduce pitch instability and also, as originally designed, the belt provided ample isolation from motor vibration. The springs are cheap, so let your ears decide.😉

Magnetic vs. Non-magnetic Platter

 TD124 standard platter = heavy "magnetic" iron

I used to believe there was negligible sonic difference between the heavy iron platter from the MKI vs. the MKII's non-magnetic platter.

Lighter non-magnetic platter
issued with the TD124II 

However, in the intervening years, I've come to realize that the heavy iron platter bestows gravitas to the TD124 design! 

TD124II + heavy iron platter

When I found an older iron platter at a reasonable price, I grabbed it and installed it to my Mark II!

IMHO/IME, as long as one keeps the original aluminum outer subplatter + clutch mechanism intact, the magnetic platter + phono cartridge interface isn't a problem. Ortofon and Thorens were aware of this back in the day and their recommended procedure of setting the VTF as pictured above is still relevant now. I've been using the SPU, DL103 + other phono cartridges on the iron platter for over two decades with no issues.

Let's not go to the light (or no plinth) vs. heavy plinth.😄

Reference

 For maintenance and restoration information, visit The Analog Dept. Thorens TD124 webpage! 👍👏