Side by side with the Elektromesstechnik (EMT) 930, upon its introduction in 1957, the original Thorens TD 124 immediately became THE reference standard for both professional and home applications, and both models have been used for decades in broadcast studios around the world (Thorens, together with Studer/Revox, distributed the EMT turntables, and EMT later adopted the Thorens tonearm and belt-drive design for its EMT 928 consumer turntables).
With time, music lovers from all over the world recognized the superior performance of the TD 124, and an enthusiastic consumer base remains devoted to that turntable design to the present day. The TD 124 was built in two versions from 1957 to 1967. Remaining inventory continued to be delivered until 1968. From 1965, the TD 124 MkII version was available with an improved motor suspension and a slightly modernized design in the details of the turntable support and control switches. In addition, the chassis was now painted in a neutral gray color. The turntable was designed for heavy-duty continuous operation in professional applications, which explains the high survival rate of the approximately 90,000 TD 124s manufactured, most of which remain in operation to this day.
In 2020, Thorens honored this tradition with the all-new TD 124 DD. The purist design and classic form factor evoke the original but innovative technologies improved every parameter of performance. The height-adjustable aluminum chassis now rests on vibration-damping elastomer elements whose viscosity is identical to the original’s rubber “Mushroom” isolators. Instead of the idler wheel and belt drive system employed in the original, the new TD 124 DD uses a 12-pole "High Precision" Direct Drive motor with Delrin bearing mirror (Thrust plate).
This purpose-engineered system provides powerful torque and precise speed control while preventing vibrations from reaching the platter. Designed by Walter Fuchs, a sophisticated motor control system minimizes “Jerking” as the magnets pass the coils and emphasizes smoothness: a quality that is immediately audible and superior to its legendary predecessor. Evocative of the original, the TD124DD integrates a “Single-Puck” 45 RPM Adaptor into the platter and includes a “Quick-Stop Button” which halts the platter (electronically, unlike the mechanical brake used in the original ‘124) for easier record changing.
Like the turntable, the new TP 124 tonearm combines the best of old and new. An aesthetic reproduction of the EMT tonearms often fitted to original ‘124s, the TP 124’s internally damped aluminum arm tube and cardanic suspension define today’s cutting-edge of tonearm design, as does a patented electric cueing mechanism. Beneath the classic cylindrical bearing housing is an azimuth adjustment, while the innovative anti-skating system employs a ruby bearing and cleverly concealed weight. The TP 124 can be precisely adjusted in all parameters to the owner’s cartridge of choice.
In addition to the tonearm’s extensive adjustment options, the supplied headshell provides optimal cartridge flexibility. The TD124DD also comes with a second, heavier counterweight that matches the Thorens SPU TD 124 pickup, which is included in the TD124DD North American Edition. The SPU 124 is an updated version of another legendary piece of vinyl equipment: the famous Ortofon SPU Phono Cartridge. Thorens has created this cartridge in collaboration with Ortofon for the discerning vinyl enthusiast looking for the extraordinary.
Thorens has paid attention to every detail when developing the new TD 124 DD to ensure that it meets the highest standards in sound. A massive, purpose-designed outboard power supply unit ensures perfect motor function regardless of line conditions. In addition to unbalanced RCA outputs, balanced XLR connectors are also provided, enabling superior signal transmission when connecting the TD 124 DD to an appropriately equipped phono preamplifier. Although the fact is often overlooked, phono cartridges are among the only "true balanced" signal sources; for this reason, the ‘124’s XLR outputs offer an even higher level of performance.
From its impeccable build, fit and finish to its timeless beauty to its unrivaled and thoroughly modern performance, the new Thorens TD 124 DD is intended to represent the pinnacle of 21st Century turntable design. The Thorens TD 124 DD is now available in the United States in a limited 120-Volt edition, at an MSRP of $14,000 US, including Thorens SPU TD 124 Phono Cartridge, TP 124 Tonearm, Piano Black Plinth, Custom Flight Case and Signed Certificate of Authenticity.
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