-edible zone-
-- Project index page.
-- Overview
The Client suggested that I was to make this TD150
as if it were for myself. That left a lot of possibilities open. I also
learned that the Client would be making comparisons between this TD150
and a VPI Scout belt drive turntable and to a Technics SL1200 series
direct drive turntable. He has also owned a couple of Rega turntables,
and an LP12. So the question becomes just how well can one of these old
vintage pieces fare in the above comparison? Let us presume that an
answer to that question will be forthcoming.
After consideration
of all the possibilities that I could imagine, and then appraising said
costs, my view on potential upgrades was distilled down to, first and
foremost, that the turntable must make use of its own parts. That is;
its own platter and bearing. Its own sub-chassis, motor plate and motor.
However, the spring suspension will be altered to correct extreme
footfall issues of the suspended wood flooring where the turntable is to
be used.
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(aka heater hose mod)
Dampening materials are not to be applied to either
motor plate or sub-chassis. Rather, let us make sure that the motor runs
as smoothly, quietly and true as it should and that the platter bearing
has correct working clearances and lube. The stock build of the TD150 I
find to be somewhat more robust and substantial than for its successor,
the TD160.
A new constrained layer plinth of stacked-layer Baltic
Birch is designed and constructed to house the turntable. BDR cone
footers are used. A new (nos) Jelco SA370H tonearm is supplied and a
solid Cherry armboard to support it is a requirement. A mounting bracket
for RCA jacks and ground is also specified. In this case a KAB PC-1200
bracket assembly is supplied and to be mounted from beneath the plinth.
Several different headshells that fit the Ortofon style quick disconnect
mount at the front of the Jelco will be setup to hold a variety of
different phono cartridges, including a Dynavector DV20X (low), an
Ortofon 2m Black and a Denon DL-103 with custom Ebony body from Uwe.
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-- Receiving (link to all the splendid details)
-- Jelco SA-370H link for the factory dwg.
-- Disassembly
-- Modifying a DL-103 to work on a Jelco SA-370H tonearm.
-- Project Summary
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(hint: click thumbnail for full size image)
-- Above: Received intact. A bone stock and unmolested Thorens TD150. After close inspection of its mechanical bits the turntable is regarded as a prime specimen for this project.
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Prior to the multi-coat lacquer job, checking fits.
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The assembly shows the wiring hook-up. Ready to go into the finished
plinth. A new motor cap replaces the old one. Same value but of a higher
grade. (5%) Note; these motors will work on either 50 or 60 hz but
require 110-120 volts AC. In countries where the AC mains is 220-240 VAC,
a resistor is used to reduce the voltage to 110-120vac. This turntable
was assembled by Thorens for use in North America. It is good to know
this before plugging in.
-- And now with the project finished:
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-- Above: From the back. The Jelco SA370htonearm holds a Dynavector 20X (low) moving coil cartridge and tracks across a Dave Brubeck Lp.
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The finished TD150 standing on the service jig.
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(click thumbnail for full image)
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