[jimbop]

I recently aquired a Thorens TD-145 with a TP-161 tonearm, but the tonearm is bent (just behind the headshell).
Any suggestions on where I can find a replacement TP-161 tonearm or armwand? I've been checking EBay, but haven't found anything.

What other tonearms could I use on this table? The tonearm mounts to a small block, as shown in the photo (not my actual table, but the same model).

[Wayner]

OK, I don't know you so I have to ask the stupid question. How do you know it's bent? It looks good to me in the photo, tho you didn't show the top view. All straight arm tonearms have the headshell at an angle, if that is what you are getting at, or do you see physical damage to the arm tube?

Wayner

[jimbop]

I mentioned in my post that the photo is not my turntable - it is a photo I used to show my model. On mine, the armtube is obviously bent downwards where the armtube meets the headshell collar, as if pressure was applied to the headshell while the tonearm was on the tonearm support.

JD

[Wayner]

Well OK. BTW, photos on the internet are copyrighted. Use of those owned by others requires permission or you have violated copyright law, FYI.

W

[orthobiz]

This is actually a great question. I love looking at the old turntables but I wonder how good the tonearms are in general. Seems like the motor/platter/plinth is the main thing to keep on all of these tables. I look at pics of the old Thorens and AR and Empires and Duals and think about just how good they are now. Makes me wonder if jimbop should look at fitting a different tonearm after all.

Wayner, you have the Empire 598, right? Is the tonearm great or do you just like the glint of gold?

Paul

[Wayner]

I like the arm, but age has brought it some problems. The anti-skate feature does not work (spring is stretched) and the cueing level pad is slowly coming off. I'd also rather it not have the removable cartridge plate as that can cause problems for a newbe. It does track well.

Wayner 

[rcag_ils]

Copyright law only applies if you use the picture to make money or to sell it, otherwise copy all you want.

[jimbop]

Can anyone offer input on my original questions?

Thanks.
JD

[orthobiz]

I would absolutely, positively go to vinylnirvana.com and speak with the owner. He constantly puts up Thorens tables, sometimes with what appear to be custom tonearm mounts and non-original tonearms. He exclusively deals with AR and Thorens. I have never spoken to him but have read positive things about the service he offers.

I would then be interested in hearing from you what he has to say!

Paul