Thorens TD 125 Mk II with SME 3009 Tonearm

Thorens TD 125 Mk II – Iconic Precision in Analog Playback

The Thorens TD 125 Mk II is widely regarded as one of the finest suspended subchassis turntables ever produced. Built during the golden era of Swiss-German hi-fi engineering in the 1970s, the TD 125 Mk II combines mechanical precision, electronic speed control, and classic design, making it a true benchmark for serious vinyl enthusiasts and collectors alike.

Key Features & Design Highlights

• Suspended Subchassis Design
  Like its Thorens predecessors, the TD 125 Mk II uses a floating three-point spring suspension to isolate the platter and tonearm assembly from external vibrations and motor noise, resulting in a pure and detailed playback experience.

• Electronic Speed Control
  Unlike the more basic TD 160 series, the TD 125 Mk II features a quartz-referenced electronic motor control system, ensuring rock-solid speed accuracy at 33⅓, 45, and 78 RPM. This advanced control makes it one of the most versatile and precise vintage turntables available.

• Heavy Precision Platter
  Its massive 7 lb (3.2 kg) die-cast aluminum platter provides excellent rotational stability, aided by a hardened steel spindle in a sintered bronze bearing with oil damping. This design minimizes wow, flutter, and rumble.

• Tonearm Options
  The TD 125 Mk II was typically fitted with the Thorens TP 16 tonearm, but many examples were sold without arms, allowing audiophiles to mount higher-end tonearms such as SME 3009, Linn Ittok, or other precision arms. Its spacious armboard makes it a flexible platform for cartridge/tonearm experimentation.

• Classic Industrial Design
  With its solid wood plinth, brushed aluminum top plate, and elegant control panel, the TD 125 Mk II embodies timeless hi-fi aesthetics. The simple yet sophisticated design allows it to sit proudly in both vintage and modern systems.

Sound Characteristics

The Thorens TD 125 Mk II is beloved for its authoritative, smooth, and refined sound.

• Tonal neutrality – offers accuracy and faithfulness to the recording.

• Deep bass foundation – stable and weighty, with excellent timing.

• Wide soundstage – excellent imaging, depth, and separation.

• Fluid midrange and highs – organic presentation, making voices and acoustic instruments come alive.

Why Enthusiasts & Collectors Value It

• Flagship pedigree: The TD 125 Mk II is seen as one of Thorens’ great engineering achievements.

• Upgradability: Supports high-end tonearms and cartridges, making it a favorite for modification and fine-tuning.

• Built to last: With its robust motor, heavy platter, and durable mechanics, many units from the 1970s are still running flawlessly today.

• Historical importance: A landmark model that cemented Thorens’ reputation as a leader in turntable design.

✅ Specifications (Typical Values):

• Drive System: Belt drive, electronically regulated motor

• Speeds: 33⅓, 45, and 78 RPM (switchable)

• Platter: 7 lb / 3.2 kg die-cast aluminum

• Bearing: Hardened steel spindle in sintered bronze bushing

• Tonearm: Thorens TP 16 (or user’s choice, depending on configuration)

• Wow & Flutter: <0.06%

• Rumble: –68 dB (DIN B weighted)

• Dimensions: Approx. 480 x 370 x 180 mm

• Weight: ~12–14 kg