Thorens tonearms are iconic components of vinyl systems, renowned for their precision and construction. Here is an overview of three key models and recommendations for their setup based on real reviews and data from the internet.
Thorens TP-16 (Mk I/Mk II Isotrack) tonearms
The TP-16 is a classic from the 1970s and 1980s with an effective mass of about 16.5 g, a beam and spring system, VTF adjustment, and magnetic anti-skating. VinylEngine users call the TP-16 “excellent in terms of price and quality” and emphasize that when properly adjusted, the sound is impressive, competing with much more expensive models. The drawbacks are the heavy TP-60 head, plastic elements of the VTF mechanism, and thin wires clogged with plastic connectors. Audiophiles recommend upgrading: lightening the head, replacing the wiring, removing the VTF spring, and connecting rock screws.
Thorens TP-19
The TP-19 is the successor to the TP-16 with an improved floating ball bearing design and azimuth adjustment. It is a reliable mid-range model, but there are significantly fewer reviews of it online than of the TP-16. The TP-19 is known to be easy to match with medium-weight cartridges.
Modern Thorens TP-92
The TP-92 is a modern, gimbal-mounted design with Loefgren geometry. It is equipped with high-precision Japanese ball bearings, a replaceable head, adjustable VTA, and magnetic anti-skating. All features — detachable cable, azimuth adjustment, interchangeable length (9/10/12″) — are described on the official Thorens website.
Tone arm adjustment — general recommendations
- Level and balance:
Limit friction, distortion, and runout — first adjust the VTF, then make sure the tonearm is hanging horizontally.
- Anti-skating:
Adjust according to the tracking force — a rational start: equal channel volume at a 1 kHz test tone. Some users note that disabling anti-skating results in a “more organic and smooth sound,” especially with light tonearms and highly compliant cartridges.
- VTA/sound beam angle:
For TP-16: by rotating the head and VTF rings. Raise/lower the tonearm on the VTA to achieve a balance between attack and low frequencies.
- Azimuth:
The TP-92 and TP-19 allow you to adjust the tube rotation, while the TP-16 requires careful balancing of the head to the center of the groove.
Tips from the community
- “The TP-16 Mk2 Isotrack… takes time to set up, but when everything is calibrated, it delivers impressive quality comparable to the best tonearms in the world.”
- “It’s best to start with the VTA, VTF, and anti-skating balance according to the weights, and then adjust by ear — most cartridges like a slightly higher VTF.”
- “The Denon DL-103 can be used, but lighter cartridges are better; the TP-16 needs modified cables for better signal transmission.”
Conclusion
Thorens tonearms (including TP-16, TP-19, and TP-92) are reliable and flexible solutions. Excellent sound is achieved with careful adjustment: balancing, adjusting the force of attraction and anti-skating — all this leads to clear, stage-like sound. The TP-92 is modern and improves on the TP-16 experience. Those who use the TP-16 should consider a simple upgrade of the head and wiring, as well as adjusting the VTF/anti-skating — VinylEngine users recommend this as an inexpensive way to achieve high-quality sound.