Thorens TD102 A

The TD 102 A is a fully automatic turntable from Thorens, designed to simplify vinyl listening while retaining the brand's aesthetic codes. It features a switchable phono preamplifier, allowing it to be connected directly to a wide variety of modern audio systems, with or without a separate phono stage.

The drive mechanism is based on a flat belt acting around the sub-platter, paired with a DC motor and electronic speed change between 33-1/3 and 45 rpm. The 12-inch (300 mm) diameter aluminium platter sits on a wood chassis with a lacquered finish, mounted on damping feet designed to limit vibration transmission. The stated signal-to-noise ratio is 60 dB.

The TP 72 tonearm, specific to this model, is made of carbon, a material valued for its rigidity and light weight. It has an effective length of 214.5 mm and an overhang of 19.5 mm, with a magnetic anti-skating system. It comes pre-assembled with an Audio Technica AT VM95E cartridge, the successor model to the AT 95 E.

This model is aimed at vinyl enthusiasts looking for a complete automatic turntable, ready to use thanks to its built-in phono preamp, without having to worry about tonearm adjustment or cartridge fitting. It is equally suited to everyday listening and to setups where ease of use takes priority over manual adjustments.

When buying used, it is worth checking the condition of the Audio Technica AT VM95E cartridge, particularly its stylus and suspension, as well as the tension and condition of the drive belt, a typical wear item in this type of mechanism. It is also worth checking that the automatic tonearm lift and return mechanism works correctly, along with the condition of the damping feet and the lacquered chassis, which is prone to marks and chips.

• Belt drive with DC motor
• Carbon TP 72 tonearm with magnetic anti-skating
• Pre-assembled Audio Technica AT VM95E cartridge
• Built-in switchable phono preamplifier

Available in gloss black or gloss walnut finish, the TD 102 A carries on Thorens's traditional aesthetic approach while incorporating up-to-date automatic mechanics.