I need a turntable

I'm currently browsing fleabay for a half decent turntable. I have in mind Thorens TD16x Rega planer 2/3, Dual 505.
Which of these performs the best, particularly in terms of rumble from bearings.

I have noticed that there are numerous upgrades available for Rega players, ruby bearings, psu upgrades etc.

Are these upgrades available for the other makes too.

Please advise

Mike

 

Opinions vary - I'd go for a Thorens as most likely to come out tops on price v. performance if you can get a decent one. Lots of good info here: http://www.theanalogdept.com/thorens_dept_.htm on what to look for and endless tweaking options.

 

Agreed, a decent TD160 is likely to top the list given a good arm.

I tend not to tweak TTs too much as most of the audible tweaks tend to push the cost up considerably.

By the time you've taken a humble Rega 3 and added a new mat, isolation feet, uber wiring, special bearings etc you might as well buy a more expensive Rega in the first place. Plus tweaking won't always improve and you can upset what is a carefully chosen balance.

By all means try a few experiments on a deck once you decide that you like the sound, but resist the urge to tranform it out of all recognition.

 

I subscribe each and everyword. Simply sound and wise advice. Almost a prescription for good analogue health, may I say

Regards,

Vincula

 

Totally agree with the above advice.

You can get a very good to excellent performance from the 160's even with their stock arms. Its important to get the cartridge & stylus suitable to the arm mass & the set up right - once done the rewards are obvious.

 

Get a TD125 mkII. Can be had for around the same as a good TD160, and is so much better it makes you wonder. It does have more potential pitfalls, but collection and a demonstration of serviceabilty should see you ok. Details on the analogdept website linked to above.

If you did not want a 'bouncer' then a later P3-24 or a Planar 25 should give you the bulk of available performance but would always suggest 1 mod. If you do nothing else replace the plastic subplatter.

 

Cheers for the advice guys.
FYI I just got me a TD166 from a local hi fi dealer at a reasonable 80 quid. It could use a new cartridge though.

Any ideas on which magnet/high coil is best suited for this turntable.

Mike

 

depends on the arm what is it ?

 

My TD 160 may be for sale.
It has a new solid plinth and an sme 3009 2 improved arm but no cart.