Thorens TD 124 MK II Turntable

For Sale: Thorens TD-124 mark2

1957–1967, considered the most iconic and best-sounding version of the legendary TD-124 series

Notable CharacteristicsThe TD-124 MKII is widely regarded as one of the finest-sounding vintage turntables ever made – used by the BBC, European radio stations, and countless audiophiles.

The combination of massive inertia, extremely low rumble, and the musical “drive” of the idler system gives it a unique rhythmic authority that many modern belt-drives struggle to match.

Easily restored and still fully serviceable today (new idler wheels, belts, grommets, and motor mounts are readily available).

- GeneralType: Idler-wheel drive, belt-assisted 4-speed transcription turntable

- Era: 1957–1967 (MKII is the final and most refined version)

- Chassis: Heavy cast-iron frame (≈ 14 kg / 31 lbs total weight with platter)

- Finish: Hammertone grey wrinkle paint with chrome accents

- Speeds: 4 speeds – 16⅔, 33⅓, 45, 78 rpm (electronically selected + fine pitch control)

- Drive System: Hybrid idler-wheel + intermediate rubber belt (the belt isolates motor vibrations

before they reach the idler)

- Motor: Papst 4-pole asynchronous (outer-rotor, very low-vibration German-made)

- Platter: 3.7 kg (8.2 lbs) non-magnetic cast alloy, 305 mm diameter, felt mat

- Main Bearing: Inverted, sintered bronze bushing with thrust pad (10 mm hardened steel spindle)

- Wow & Flutter: ≤ 0.05 % (DIN weighted, exceptional for the era)**

- Rumble: ≤ –52 dB (DIN B, among the quietest idler-drives ever made)

- Controls & FeaturesSpeed Selector: Large illuminated 4-position strobe-lit lever

- Pitch Control: ±6 % continuous fine pitch adjustment (illuminated strobe pattern on platter rim)

- Strobe Disc: Built-in neon strobe disc under platter for precise speed calibration (50 Hz or 60 Hz

versions)

- Idler Wheel: 3-step cast pulley + rubber-faced idler wheel (easily replaceable/rebuildable)

- On/Off: Clutch-operated – lifting the cueing lever engages the idler; lowering it fully disengages

and brakes the platter gently

- Tonearm Compatibility: Designed for 12" arms; standard Thorens armboard cutout (also accepts

SME, Ortofon RMG-212, etc.)

Specifications:

- Dimensions & WeightBase Dimensions: 420 mm × 350 mm (16.5" × 13.8")

- Height (without lid): ≈ 180 mm (7.1")

- Total Weight: ≈ 14–15 kg (31–33 lbs) depending on plinth

- ElectricalVoltage: Factory 110–120 V or 220–240 V (50/60 Hz versions)

- Motor: E50 Papst 4-pole (very quiet and long-lived)

- Power Consumption: ≈ 10 W

- Original Power Cord: Non-detachable cloth-covered (modern restorations usually add IEC)

Staat: very good, 100% functional