The Thorens TD 1601 is a precision sub-chassis turntable built for listeners who want quiet, accurate vinyl playback and user-friendly operation. Its suspended sub-chassis on three conical springs and heavy two-part aluminum platter give steady speed and low noise, while the electronically controlled synchronous motor and rear speed trimmers let you dial in very accurate 33⅓ / 45 rpm. The TD 1601 adds a convenient electric lift and contactless auto shut-off, and provides both unbalanced (RCA) and true balanced (XLR) outputs for flexible connection to modern phono stages. This is a workmanlike, well-engineered deck that puts the cartridge’s performance first.
Key Features
- Suspended sub-chassis on three conical springs for mechanical isolation and stable playback.
- Two-part machined aluminum platter (heavy mass) to lower rumble and improve speed consistency.
- Electronically controlled synchronous motor with adjustable trimpots for precise speed control (33⅓ and 45 rpm).
- Built-in electric lift and contactless automatic shut-off for safer, semi-automatic operation.
- Thorens precision tonearm (factory-fitted variant) with magnetic anti-skate system and easy cartridge alignment.
- Both unbalanced (RCA) and true balanced (XLR) outputs; external linear power supply for cleaner motor power.
Why Buy
Choose the TD 1601 if you want a thoughtfully engineered suspended turntable that keeps the focus on musical detail and cartridge performance while adding practical conveniences—electric lift, stable motor control, and modern outputs—for long, trouble-free listening. Reviews note its tidy bass control, low noise and steady speed once adjusted. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
- Reliable isolation and heavy platter reduce noise so your cartridge can reveal detail.
- Semi-automatic operation (electric lift + contactless shut-off) protects records and makes play simple.
- Balanced XLR plus RCA outputs and an external power supply give flexible, low-noise connections in high-end systems.
Product Specifications
| Thorens TD 1601 Turntable Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Product Overview | |
| Product Type | High-end suspended sub-chassis belt-drive turntable (automatic arm lift / contactless auto stop) |
| Drive System | Belt drive with internally routed precision belt and aluminium sub-platter |
| Motor | Electronically controlled and stabilized AC synchronous motor (external linear power supply) |
| Speeds | 33 1/3 & 45 RPM (electronic speed select; rear trimmers for fine adjustment) |
| Platter | Two-part machined aluminium platter — 12" / approx. 4.2 kg (inner sub-platter + outer platter) |
| Tonearm (factory fitted) | Thorens TP 92 9" precision tonearm (SME headshell compatible, magnetic anti-skate) |
| Cartridge | Not included (standard headshell / SME connector) |
| Audio / Output | |
| Outputs | Unbalanced RCA and true balanced XLR outputs |
| Anti-skating | Magnetic anti-skate (TP 92) |
| Connectivity & Power | |
| Power Supply | External linear power supply (TPN 1600 or equivalent external PSU supplied) |
| Controls | 33 / 45 / off buttons, motor fine-trim potentiometers (rear), start/stop and lift controls on plinth |
| Mechanical / Chassis | |
| Sub-chassis | Stabilized sub-chassis mounted on three conical springs with resonance-damping foam |
| Adjustable Belt Tension | Yes — tensioning system for precise belt drive alignment |
| Auto-lift / Shut-off | Patented electric lift with contactless auto shut-off at record end |
| Dimensions & Weight | |
| Dimensions (W x H x D) | 454 x 180 x 369 mm |
| Weight (net) | Approx. 10.9 – 11.0 kg (depending on finish and included tonearm) |
| Finish & Scope of Delivery | |
| Available Finishes | High gloss walnut, high gloss black (finish availability may vary by market) |
| Included in Box | Turntable chassis with tonearm, aluminium platter, mat, external power supply, precision belt, acrylic dust cover, basic accessories & documentation |
| Warranty & Notes | |
| Warranty | Manufacturer warranty (length varies by country / retailer — verify locally) |
| Notes | True balanced (XLR) connection is intended for systems using MC phono stages or balanced inputs. Cartridge not included — list cartridge compatibility when selling. |