Thorens Turntable Value Guide (2026)
Thorens has been making turntables since the 1950s. The models that come up on the used market fall into two distinct generations: the suspended subchassis decks of the 1970s (TD-150, TD-160, TD-145, TD-165, TD-166) and the later direct-plinth models of the 1980s and early 1990s (TD-280, TD-318, TD-320). The two generations are very different propositions. Price and buy them separately.
Current prices
| Model | Spec | Working |
|---|---|---|
| Thorens TD-145 | — | $988 |
| Thorens TD-320 | — | $750 |
| Thorens TD-160 | — | $719.1 |
| Thorens TD-166 | — | $640 |
| Thorens TD-150 | — | $525 |
| Thorens TD-165 | — | $400 |
| Thorens TD-280 | — | $345 |
| Thorens TD-125 | — | thin market |
| Thorens TD-318 | — | thin market |
The 1970s suspended subchassis family
The TD-150 (1965-1975), TD-160 (1972-1984), TD-145 (1975-1978), TD-165 (1972-1979), and TD-166 (1978-1984) all share the same fundamental design: a platter and tonearm mounted on a subchassis that floats on three springs, isolated from the outer plinth. This filters out external vibration more effectively than the heavy rigid-plinth approach used by most Japanese turntables of the era.
The TD-160 is the most collected and most common of the family. It's fully manual, uses the TP-16 tonearm with magnetic antiskating, and has a zinc alloy subplatter with a 10mm bearing shaft. The TD-150 is the earlier version, mechanically similar but with some differences in the platter and suspension implementation. The TD-125 is a step up with a higher-spec motor and is valued accordingly.
The TD-145 is a TD-160 with auto-stop and tonearm lift electronics added. The TD-165 is mechanically similar to the TD-160 but uses a different tonearm (the TP-11 with threaded-weight antiskating) and a lighter resin subplatter rather than zinc. The TD-166 is a TD-165 with the TD-160's motor clutch system added.
Within this family, the TD-160 leads on price because it's the most recognized and sought after. TD-125 prices are higher due to the superior motor. TD-145, TD-165, and TD-166 prices trail the TD-160 slightly despite being functionally equivalent or nearly so.
The 1980s generation: TD-280, TD-318, TD-320
By the early 1980s Thorens moved away from the three-spring suspended design. The TD-280 (1982-1991), TD-318 (1983-1990), and TD-320 (1985-1992) use a different approach: a semi-suspended design with a more conventional plinth. The TD-320 introduced leaf springs rather than the traditional coil springs.
These decks are competent and well-built but don't carry the same collector premium as the 1970s suspended models. They trade at lower prices and attract buyers who want Thorens quality without the setup fussiness of a floating subchassis. A TD-280 in good condition is a reliable turntable at a reasonable price; it just doesn't have the audiophile mystique of the TD-160 family.
Shared buying considerations
Belts: Every Thorens on this list needs its belt checked first. An original belt from the 1970s or 80s is almost certainly degraded. New belts cost $12-20 and are model-specific. A stretched belt causes slow or uneven speed. It's the single most common reason a "working" Thorens sounds off.
Suspension (1970s models): The three-spring suspension requires the subchassis to float level and bounce evenly. Springs sag and stiffen over time. Press the subchassis gently and release; it should bob slowly without twisting. If it tilts or sits unevenly, the springs need adjustment or replacement.
Dust covers: Thorens dust covers crack at the hinge points. Check all four hinges. Replacements are available but add cost.
Cartridges: Assume any included cartridge needs a stylus replacement. Budget $75-150 for a new stylus on top of the purchase price unless the seller can prove the stylus hours are low.
The TD-145 in depth
The TD-145 is currently the most-searched Thorens model on StereoWorth. For a full breakdown of its history, auto-stop mechanism, and buying checklist, see the Thorens TD-145 value guide.
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