Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.
What reviewers think
Magazine reviewers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below.
Product Strengths
- Robust and full-bodied bass
- Fuller tonality and a convincing, natural timbre
- When not bottlenecked by the tonearm/cartridge, superb sound quality and great value for money
- The sub-chassis design provides high structural rigidity without extremely high mass, draining vibration energy
- Easy to use, convenient, and looks good
Product Considerations
- Treble behavior has reduced extension, refinement, fluidity, and air when paired with certain tonearms
- Fitting the belts is awkward and might require a few tries before the belts are happy to run around the pulley
- Performance is majorly restrained by the tonearm unless a good amount of money is spent on a better tonearm
- Sounds dimensionally smaller and flatter than the AVID Sequel SP
- Not particularly resolved, and certainly not selective—there are not too many details
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the Thorens TD1601, the AVID Diva II SP has immensely robust and full-bodied bass, fuller tonality, and convincing and natural timbre, while the Thorens TD1601 has an advantage in terms of reduced extension, refinement, fluidity, and air in the treble behavior
- Compared to the AVID Sequel SP, the AVID Diva II SP sounds dimensionally smaller and flatter, with shorter, drier, and tighter bass
- Compared to the AVID Diva II, the AVID Diva II SP offers increases in sonic performance concurrent with the price due to a metal platter and a high quality Tungsten carbide—sapphire bearing assembly taken from more expensive models
Takeaway: The Diva II SP is a quality design that offers superb sound and great value when paired with the right tonearm and cartridge. Its ability to handle complex music with detail and precision makes it a worthwhile investment for audiophiles.
How useful are hifi reviews? We consider them useful for three things: (1) Surfacing new products you should demo in person at a dealer. (2) Learning which products reviewers unanimously praise as the best they've ever heard (this means they probably are legitimately great). (3) Identifying a product's unique attributes that satisfy your idiosyncratic needs and tastes. Beyond that, we discount what reviewers say because they heap praise on everything—rarely being negative for fear of souring relationships with manufacturers. Further, they seldom have more than a couple products on-hand at once, relying on their imperfect memories to compare to past products.
Video Review
Compared to their other products
We think it's helpful to understand how this product fits into the brand's full lineup (below). To learn more about these products, visit the brand's page.
Ingenium-turntable
- Positioning: The entry-level model aimed at budget-conscious users.
- Description: Offers a reliable belt drive mechanism and basic isolation features that help deliver clear sound in smaller rooms. In comparison to the other models, it provides essential performance without advanced engineering details for those who need simple functionality at a lower cost.
Diva-II-SP-turntable
- Positioning: A mid-range model that builds on the entry-level design with enhanced mechanical features.
- Description: Introduces an improved suspension system and refined tonearm design that help boost tracking precision and stability over the Ingenium. Compared to other products in the lineup, it offers a balanced step up in engineering for medium-sized setups.
Volvere-turntable
- Positioning: A mid-to-high tier option focused on greater mechanical stability and refined performance.
- Description: Uses an upgraded motor control and enhanced isolation measures that result in steadier operation and improved sound reproduction. In contrast to the Ingenium and Diva-II-SP models, its superior build quality and technical improvements suit buyers looking for a noticeable upgrade in performance and precision.
Acutus-reference
- Positioning: A high-end reference model designed for dedicated audiophile listening environments.
- Description: Features precision machining and an innovative motor system that markedly reduce vibration and enhance accurate tracking, setting it apart from the lower-tier products. Compared to the Ingenium, Diva-II-SP, and Volvere models, it offers advanced isolation and refined control.
Acutus-reference-mono
- Positioning: The flagship model with the highest level of engineering refinement in the lineup.
- Description: Features a bespoke mono-block design that significantly improves channel separation and minimizes interference, distinguishing it from all other models. Compared to the Acutus-reference and the rest of the range, it provides the most sophisticated circuitry and tonearm system.
See all the brand's products
Read the reviews
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An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
Diva II SP
images
No items found.
Manufacturer's notes
The Diva II SP may look near identical to the more affordable Diva II, but in practice, the SP is streets ahead of its already impressive junior sibling. Greater tonal depth, vastly improved detail retrieval, and an immaculate sense of timing ensure riveting listening.
Spinning MassA heavy aluminium platter and vibration absorbing properties of the screw-down clamp and sapphire bearing, work symbiotically with the chassis to reduce background noise to vanishing levels. Providing plenty of breathing space for the music, the total lack of mechanical noise ensures that the finest sprinkling of detail is meticulously rendered, adding to a sense of compelling authenticity.Dynamic SoundWith twin belt drive controlling platter stability, coupled with our Digital Signal processing engine ironing out variations in the electrical supply, precision control of the speed is achieved, improving bass and treble definition for a smooth, yet dynamic sound.The sheer sense of dimension and authority of the music, together with powerful dynamics and metronome timing, propels the SP into true high-end territory, leaving you enthusiastically reaching for your next record, time after time.
Manufacturer Specs
DRIVE:
TWIN BELT DRIVE
SPEEDS:
33.3 & 45.0 RPM (ADJUSTABLE)
PLATTER MASS:
ALUMINIUM 6.3KG
BEARING:
INVERTED STAINLESS STEEL
THRUST POINT:
TUNGSTEN CARBIDE/SAPPHIRE
SUSPENSION:
TRIPLE LAYER 3 POINT ELASTOMER
TONEARM FITTING:
SME TEMPLATE
ADAPTERS AVAILABLE:
YES
MOTOR:
24V 12MNM AC SYNCHRONOUS
POWER SUPPLY:
DSP VARI-SPEED CONTROL UNIT
VOLTAGE INPUT:
100-240VAC 50/60HZ 20 WATTS MAX.
DIMENSIONS:
450 X 390 X 140MM (WXDXH OVERALL)
NET WEIGHT:
12.8KG (28LB) EX. PSU
Visit Manufacturer Site
Average Price
$5,001-$10,000
Used Products
2
Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
60
of 600+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products
32
Founded
1995
Our take on the brand
AVID Hifi is a brand known for its turntables featuring unique engineering like sapphire bearings and dual-stage clamping systems that improve bass grip and soundstage projection. The brand's design philosophy involves developing technology in their high-end models and then adapting it for more affordable products, with their components made from solid aluminum and speakers weighing 100kg for exceptional build quality.
Brand Page
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Used
Avid Hifi
What if you spend a bit more?
Acutus Dark Iron
12592
12592
/
2
Reviews
Avid Hifi
Introducing the Acutus Dark Iron, an exquisite rendition that revolutionizes both aesthetics and functionality in the world of audio equipment. Melding unparalleled sound quality with a stunning new colour scheme, this rendition redefines elegance and innovation. The Dark Iron variant radiates sophistication, boasting a captivating hue that accentuates its sleek design and embodies a timeless allure.
Iron Grip
Committed to maintaining the renowned sound quality synonymous with the Acutus series, the Dark Iron edition remains steadfast in delivering an unparalleled auditory journey. With meticulous attention to detail, this rendition stands as a testament to the relentless pursuit of perfection, marrying cutting-edge technology with the artistry of sound reproduction. The Acutus Dark Iron embodies the ethos of innovation and sophistication, setting a new benchmark for audio equipment.
Motor Integration
Beyond its striking appearance, the Acutus Dark Iron embodies advancements in performance through its integrated motor system. This elegant enhancement ensures superior belt alignment, elevating the listening experience to new heights of precision and consistency. The meticulously engineered motor seamlessly integrates into the turntable's framework, delivering not only improved alignment but also enhancing the overall operational smoothness, setting a new standard in audio excellence.
AVID Hifi is a brand known for its turntables featuring unique engineering like sapphire bearings and dual-stage clamping systems that improve bass grip and soundstage projection. The brand's design philosophy involves developing technology in their high-end models and then adapting it for more affordable products, with their components made from solid aluminum and speakers weighing 100kg for exceptional build quality.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- The Acutus Dark Iron provides clarity and detail with low background noise
- Rhythmically strong and deals with all genres of music well
- Tight and detailed bass
- A well-engineered suspension system
Product Considerations
- The dual-stage clamp was found a little fiddly, preferring the easier-to-use single-stage clamp
- The tonearm may lack the beauty of the top SME tonearms
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the Acutus Classic, the Acutus Dark Iron brings much of the Classic's performance to a lower price point
Takeaway: The AVID Acutus Dark Iron turntable is a well-built product that brings music to life with clarity, detail, and rhythm. It is a great choice for anyone looking for a high-end vinyl experience.
Video review
Our take on the brand
AVID Hifi is a brand known for its turntables featuring unique engineering like sapphire bearings and dual-stage clamping systems that improve bass grip and soundstage projection. The brand's design philosophy involves developing technology in their high-end models and then adapting it for more affordable products, with their components made from solid aluminum and speakers weighing 100kg for exceptional build quality.
Visit our
Acutus Dark Iron
page
Product Page
Naia
12995
12995
/
16
Reviews
Rega
Rega is a British hifi brand known for its minimalist, low-mass turntable designs that challenge the industry's typical heavy-mass approach to reducing vibration. Their hand-assembled turntables and tonearms use advanced materials like graphene-infused carbon fiber and feature slim yet rigid plinths with striking glass platters, reflecting founder Roy Gandy's unique engineering perspective on how components affect
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- The Naia epitomizes Rega's design philosophies, and its sonic performance confirms this
- Exceptionally capable, setting a sky-high standard for resolution and transparency
- Incredibly neutral and transparent for a vinyl source, doing a more effective job of getting out of the way and letting the record itself be the story
- Genuinely high end and trades blows with the best, but is no more demanding in use than one at a tenth of the price
- Delivers better timing than 99.9% of audio sources–analogue or digital
Product Considerations
- The foam edges on the plinth look a little unfinished
- An otherwise admirably off-hand approach to music-making did leave some wanting more in the way of rhythmic drive
- Can expose weaknesses in record quality, so upgrades to some of your record collection may be needed
- Minimalist design and understatement might not impress those unfamiliar with high-end audio
- The removable dust cover doesn't offer quite the same protection as a more conventional lid and, combined with the fairly small stylus guard on the cart, means Rega is slightly more vulnerable than some rivals
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Rega Planar 10, the Naia brings it closer technologically and, unfortunately, in price, but it is also better in every way, and the measured performance demonstrates that the Naia is a step above the Planar 10
- Vs Rega Planar 10, the Naia gets significantly more information out of records, has a lower apparent noise floor and even better timing
- Vs Technics SL-1000R, the Rega is significantly better with low-frequency transients, delivering them with greater heft and power while also revealing that the Technics has a slightly sludgy quality in comparison
- Vs Linn Seleckt LP12, the Naia is more neutral and transparent
Takeaway: The Naia is a high-performance turntable that offers exceptional clarity and detail, providing a very neutral sound. If you want a turntable that reveals every nuance in your vinyl collection, the Naia is worth considering.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Rega is a British hifi brand known for its minimalist, low-mass turntable designs that challenge the industry's typical heavy-mass approach to reducing vibration. Their hand-assembled turntables and tonearms use advanced materials like graphene-infused carbon fiber and feature slim yet rigid plinths with striking glass platters, reflecting founder Roy Gandy's unique engineering perspective on how components affect
Visit our
Naia
page
Product Page
Avenger
12500
12500
/
10
Reviews
VPI
The VPI Avenger Table was originally a project started by Harry over 12 years ago. In the process of the design, the project was dropped in mid-production due to excessive demand by HR-X customers which left the design and proto-type chassis to be mothballed. The good news about the abandoned design is Harry instead shifted his focus to starting and completing the VPI Classic Turntable.
VPI is known for its high-end, American-made turntables. They stand out for their use of 3D printing in tonearm design, creating one-piece structures that enhance sound quality, and their unique unipivot tonearm design that balances on a single point for precise sound reproduction.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Customizable and upgradable, it can handle up to three tonearms
- It produces a big soundstage with life-like proportions and scale, which provides a holographic sound
- Offers an effortless power and control and is unflappable at any volume
- VPI's chassis is versatile, allowing a different and more complex drive system
- Has great speed stability
Product Considerations
- Setup is critical and may require assistance from an experienced dealer or audiophile
- It can be sensitive to vibrations from the room and speakers, requiring careful placement and isolation
- It may not suit those wanting a 4/4 beat to everything, because it does not emphasize the beat in the way that a suspended turntable does
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Minimizes resonance problems with both moving-coil and moving-iron cartridges
- Avenger Direct has the speed stability of the best direct drives
- Avenger Direct is competitive in overall level of detail and silence, sometimes slightly superior, to the VPI Classic Direct
- The three-legged layout solves the problem of accommodating two tonearms
- Compared to VPI Scout 21, the Deep In The Night track has depth and scale to it that's grander in every direction and dimension via the Avenger
Takeaway: The VPI Avenger is a high-end turntable with a customizable design and strong performance, offering great sound quality and the ability to use multiple tonearms. With its solid engineering and powerful sound, it is built to deliver great sound from vinyl records, allowing listeners to hear music with a new level of engagement.
Video review
Our take on the brand
VPI is known for its high-end, American-made turntables. They stand out for their use of 3D printing in tonearm design, creating one-piece structures that enhance sound quality, and their unique unipivot tonearm design that balances on a single point for precise sound reproduction.
Visit our
Avenger
page
Product Page
Selekt LP12
14560
14560
/
4
Reviews
Linn
Linn is a hifi brand known for its modular designs, particularly the Sondek LP12 turntable where users can upgrade virtually every component over time to maintain performance across decades. The brand stands out for developing its own technologies in-house, including the Organik DAC with FPGA processing and Space Optimisation, which models room acoustics without needing microphone measurements.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Offers a sweet spot in price/performance terms
- Delivers a quintessential Sondek sound, and is highly emotional
- Unlocks the music in real time, making for an extremely immersive sound
- Strong and taut bass
- Sounds sweet, refined, and smooth
Product Considerations
- Setting up an LP12 needs to be done by someone who knows what they are doing
- The Kendo MC cartridge feels very exposed
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Is a definite step up from the Majik LP12
Takeaway: The Linn Selekt LP12 embodies the best of the venerable turntable in its classical form, offering high-quality engineering and an immersive sound. It's a worthwhile option for those seeking a significant upgrade in their vinyl listening experience.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Linn is a hifi brand known for its modular designs, particularly the Sondek LP12 turntable where users can upgrade virtually every component over time to maintain performance across decades. The brand stands out for developing its own technologies in-house, including the Organik DAC with FPGA processing and Space Optimisation, which models room acoustics without needing microphone measurements.
Visit our
Selekt LP12
page
Product Page
What else competes at this price?
Majik LP12
5130
/
Released
Linn
Take your first step into high-fidelity vinyl playback. And close the door behind you, you won't be turning back. Experience the legendary Sondek LP12 in its most affordable guise – powered by carefully curated Linn-engineered components. Majik LP12 includes our sandwich-construction aluminium sub-chassis, patented single point Karousel bearing, internally mounted low noise power supply, and low-friction Krane tonearm.
Linn is a hifi brand known for its modular designs, particularly the Sondek LP12 turntable where users can upgrade virtually every component over time to maintain performance across decades. The brand stands out for developing its own technologies in-house, including the Organik DAC with FPGA processing and Space Optimisation, which models room acoustics without needing microphone measurements.
Expand Details
Our Summary
No items found.
Product Strengths
- Shares the plinth, bearing and suspension design with higher-end LP12 models
- Great build quality and finish, made with precision aluminum and stainless-steel components
- Offers upgrade paths with higher quality phono cartridges, arms, chassis, and power supplies
- Known for its musicality and ability to make listeners forget about typical audio criteria and focus on enjoying the music
- Great value package bringing LP12 ownership to a wider audience without major compromise
Product Considerations
- Requires professional setup and adjustment
- Speed change to 45rpm requires fitting a pulley adaptor, which may be annoying for some users
- Footfall and external vibrations can affect performance, requiring a lightweight and rigid support
- Some reviewers found the bundled Adikt moving magnet cartridge to be the weakest link in the system
- Lid is an optional extra, which may come as a surprise
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Technics SL-1200G: Majik LP12 offers a more relaxed and beguiling sound, while the Technics is crisper and tighter
- Vs Origin Live Calypso Multilayer/Silver: Majik LP12 sits in the middle, more relaxed than the Technics SL-1200G—but not as expansive and tonally natural as the Origin Live Calypso Multilayer/Silver
- Vs Thorens TD160 HD or Michell's Gyrodec SE: Majik LP12 has a relaxed warmth and fluidity that the others do not
Takeaway: The Majik LP12 is a well-built, musically engaging turntable that brings the classic Linn sound to a more accessible price point. It's a great way to get into vinyl and enjoy records without being distracted by technicalities and has plenty of upgrade options available.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Linn is a hifi brand known for its modular designs, particularly the Sondek LP12 turntable where users can upgrade virtually every component over time to maintain performance across decades. The brand stands out for developing its own technologies in-house, including the Organik DAC with FPGA processing and Space Optimisation, which models room acoustics without needing microphone measurements.
Visit
Majik LP12
Page
Product Page
TTP
5800
/
Released
2023
Cyrus
The Cyrus TTP Turntable is the perfect complement to our award-winning Classic PHONO preamplifier, unless Moving Magnet is your choice of cartridge, and then any of the Cyrus Classic or XR pre-amplifiers or integrated amplifiers can also be considered as a suitable partner.
Cyrus Audio is known for its compact half-width designs and proprietary Servo Evolution technology that optimizes CD transport performance beyond basic readability. The brand stands out for being the first to implement voice-assist technology in hifi through their ONE Cast amplifier, which features a hybrid Class D design and high-end DAC, while their PSU-XR power supply employs five independent power supplies to minimize electrical noise.
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Our Summary
No items found.
Product Strengths
- Heavy weight and high mass design combats resonant frequencies and provides a stable platform for playing vinyl records
- Delivers a clean, dynamic sound with superb imaging and soundstage
- The motor is integrated into the chassis giving the turntable a very clean look
Product Considerations
- No dust cover/lid is included
- No ground/earth cable included with the RCA's
- RB330 tonearm is not known for its easy adjustment and cartridge matching
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- TTP has similar solidity of image and body to the Thorens TD-124 and Garrard 301 idler-wheel turntables
Takeaway: The Cyrus Audio TTP is a well-engineered turntable that delivers engaging music from a stable platform and a clean background. It offers a blend of modern technology, thoughtful design, and flexible upgrade options.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Cyrus Audio is known for its compact half-width designs and proprietary Servo Evolution technology that optimizes CD transport performance beyond basic readability. The brand stands out for being the first to implement voice-assist technology in hifi through their ONE Cast amplifier, which features a hybrid Class D design and high-end DAC, while their PSU-XR power supply employs five independent power supplies to minimize electrical noise.
Visit
TTP
Page
Product Page
M8xTT
8999
/
Released
2023
Musical Fidelity
The M8xTT is a high-end turntable with radical concepts and innovations originating from its legendary predecessor.
Musical Fidelity is known for its unique amplifier designs, particularly the A1 integrated amplifier that uses its top plate as a heatsink and features a distinctive current-mode phono stage. The brand stands out for its innovative dual-monoblock approach in integrated amplifiers, where separate power transformers and dedicated power supplies are housed in a single chassis, as seen in their M8xi and M6i models that deliver exceptional power output.
Expand Details
Our Summary
No items found.
Product Strengths
- Sleek acrylic construction that is visually appealing and acoustically excellent
- A beautifully open window onto the performance, achieved in a commandingly authoritative manner
- Muscular sounding, exhibiting a solid grip on the music, especially through the bass and into the lower midrange
- Utterly coherent, with an uncanny ability to untangle complex music
- Precision opened up the record, presenting sometimes-busy albums as if they were giant paintings
Product Considerations
- Consistency of speed was not what was expected from a turntable of this pedigree
- The headshell lacks sufficient offset angle, so rotation of an MM or MC slightly inwards may be needed
- If a cartridge is less than about 17mm tall, spacers may be needed to use it with the M8xTT's arm
- Acrylic scratches easily and shows dust, so care must be taken when cleaning
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The M1 was always a little soft at the low end, but the Musical Fidelity's new model couldn't be more different
Takeaway: The M8xTT is a wonderful turntable with exceptional sound quality and outstanding construction. The crystalline chrome-and-acrylic chassis and visual effect of the spinning platter make it a thrilling machine to use.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Musical Fidelity is known for its unique amplifier designs, particularly the A1 integrated amplifier that uses its top plate as a heatsink and features a distinctive current-mode phono stage. The brand stands out for its innovative dual-monoblock approach in integrated amplifiers, where separate power transformers and dedicated power supplies are housed in a single chassis, as seen in their M8xi and M6i models that deliver exceptional power output.
Visit
M8xTT
Page
Product Page
MasterDeck
5995
/
Released
2023
MoFi
Unveiling the pinnacle of vinyl reproduction: the MasterDeck Turntable, a masterpiece crafted by the renowned Allen Perkins. Born from a collaboration of vinyl enthusiasts, this reference-grade turntable is engineered for those who seek to unearth the true essence of music embedded in the grooves of their cherished vinyl LPs.
MoFi Electronics is known for their turntables featuring unique engineering choices like chassis with constrained layer damping and 10-inch tonearms for superior sound quality. Their speakers use concentric driver designs that minimize cone displacement and enhance clarity, while their phono stages offer uncommon features like front-panel adjustability for gain and cartridge load.
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Our Summary
No items found.
Product Strengths
- Designed by Allen Perkins, incorporating groundbreaking technologies and design principles.
- Every component is designed to work in perfect harmony, extracting every nuance and detail from vinyl collection.
- Features a three-point isolation system with Harmonic Resolution Systems (HRS) feet.
- Has a 10-inch dual-pivot carbon-fiber tonearm with Cardas Audio internal wiring.
- Offers speed options and trim control.
Product Considerations
- Setup is extremely critical and may require assistance.
- The tonearm rest requires a strong pull to secure the arm, which can cause the arm to ricochet if not handled carefully.
- Additional head shells should be purchased with the turntable, if the user anticipates swapping them to use different cartridges.
- Maintenance parts may be difficult to secure for the next 40 years.
- The design is not for those looking to customize the table with different tonearm mounts and components.
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to StudioDeck and UltraDeck, the MasterDeck's collar screw drive VTA adjustment is easier to set and more precise in its movement.
Takeaway: The MasterDeck is a well-engineered turntable that delivers realism and detail while keeping the musical enjoyment alive. Its innovative design and precision components provide a high-quality listening experience for vinyl enthusiasts.
Video review
Our take on the brand
MoFi Electronics is known for their turntables featuring unique engineering choices like chassis with constrained layer damping and 10-inch tonearms for superior sound quality. Their speakers use concentric driver designs that minimize cone displacement and enhance clarity, while their phono stages offer uncommon features like front-panel adjustability for gain and cartridge load.
Visit
MasterDeck
Page
Product Page
TD 1600 TP 160
5035
/
Released
2021
Thorens
The TD 1600, featuring the new TP 160 tonearm, represents a consistent evolution of the TD 1600. It possesses a classic wooden plinth, a two-part machined aluminum platter with an internally run ground drive belt.
Thorens is renowned for pioneering the suspended subchassis turntable design in 1966 with their TD 150 model, which provides superior vibration isolation and has become a standard in turntable engineering. Their latest innovation is seen in the New Reference turntable, which features an active vibration isolation system developed with Seismion that uses piezoelectric sensors and electronic control, along with a German-made 3-phase synchronous motor driven by three linear power amplifiers.
Expand Details
Our Summary
No items found.
Product Strengths
- Extremely well built and beautifully finished, demonstrating extraordinary tolerances between mating parts.
- A quiet and stable platform for playing records.
- Its tonearm is very flexible in cartridge support.
- It provides balanced outputs via XLR, which is unusual, but phono cartridges are inherently balanced.
- It provides an accurate and consistent rate of spin.
Product Considerations
- The antiskating mechanism is effectively uncalibrated and extremely sensitive to correct adjustment.
- The manual provides very little detail about attaching the cartridge to the tonearm.
- The manual lift has to be operated carefully because it is located on the moving part of the player.
- The manual TP 160 arm's lift lever is less damped, and any non-linear hand movements are transferred to the sub-chassis—incurring wobble.
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Thorens TD 1601: The TD 1600 is fully manual, while the TD 1601 is semi-automatic.
- Vs Linn LP12: Both models fall into the same audiophile category and are also quite close in price in terms of basic equipment.
Takeaway: The TD 1600 turntable is a well-engineered, beautifully finished turntable that offers a quiet and stable platform for quality vinyl playback. With its flexible tonearm and robust construction, it should provide years of listening enjoyment.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Thorens is renowned for pioneering the suspended subchassis turntable design in 1966 with their TD 150 model, which provides superior vibration isolation and has become a standard in turntable engineering. Their latest innovation is seen in the New Reference turntable, which features an active vibration isolation system developed with Seismion that uses piezoelectric sensors and electronic control, along with a German-made 3-phase synchronous motor driven by three linear power amplifiers.
Visit
TD 1600 TP 160
Page
Product Page
Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.
What reviewers think
Magazine reviewers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below.
Product Strengths
- Robust and full-bodied bass
- Fuller tonality and a convincing, natural timbre
- When not bottlenecked by the tonearm/cartridge, superb sound quality and great value for money
- The sub-chassis design provides high structural rigidity without extremely high mass, draining vibration energy
- Easy to use, convenient, and looks good
Product Considerations
- Treble behavior has reduced extension, refinement, fluidity, and air when paired with certain tonearms
- Fitting the belts is awkward and might require a few tries before the belts are happy to run around the pulley
- Performance is majorly restrained by the tonearm unless a good amount of money is spent on a better tonearm
- Sounds dimensionally smaller and flatter than the AVID Sequel SP
- Not particularly resolved, and certainly not selective—there are not too many details
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the Thorens TD1601, the AVID Diva II SP has immensely robust and full-bodied bass, fuller tonality, and convincing and natural timbre, while the Thorens TD1601 has an advantage in terms of reduced extension, refinement, fluidity, and air in the treble behavior
- Compared to the AVID Sequel SP, the AVID Diva II SP sounds dimensionally smaller and flatter, with shorter, drier, and tighter bass
- Compared to the AVID Diva II, the AVID Diva II SP offers increases in sonic performance concurrent with the price due to a metal platter and a high quality Tungsten carbide—sapphire bearing assembly taken from more expensive models
Takeaway: The Diva II SP is a quality design that offers superb sound and great value when paired with the right tonearm and cartridge. Its ability to handle complex music with detail and precision makes it a worthwhile investment for audiophiles.
How useful are hifi reviews? We consider them useful for three things: (1) Surfacing new products you should demo in person at a dealer. (2) Learning which products reviewers unanimously praise as the best they've ever heard (this means they probably are legitimately great). (3) Identifying a product's unique attributes that satisfy your idiosyncratic needs and tastes. Beyond that, we discount what reviewers say because they heap praise on everything—rarely being negative for fear of souring relationships with manufacturers. Further, they seldom have more than a couple products on-hand at once, relying on their imperfect memories to compare to past products.
Video Review
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