Description
Key Features
The TD165’s defining feature is its suspended sub-chassis: the platter, motor mounting, and tonearm are mounted on a floating counterframe rather than fixed rigidly to the plinth, decoupling the playback system from vibration transmitted through the supporting surface or from footfall in the room. This was inherited directly from the acclaimed TD150 and represented advanced engineering for a turntable at this price point when new. Drive is via a 16-pole synchronous AC motor and belt, offering the smooth, low-noise rotation Thorens turntables of this era are known for, with manual speed change between 33⅓ and 45rpm. The fitted TP11 tonearm is easily identified by the threaded counterweight hanging from its rear, and is generally regarded as a simpler, lighter-duty arm than the TP16 fitted to the step-up TD160 of the same period, though still a capable performer in its own right.
The fitted cartridge is a Shure M75 series moving magnet design, part of Shure’s well-regarded high-trackability Dynetic range from the same era as the turntable, prized for a warm, easy-going tonal balance.
Technical Specifications
(Source: hifi-wiki.com — Thorens TD165 documentation; Shure — M75 Series official specification sheet)
- Type: Two-speed manual belt-drive turntable with suspended sub-chassis, fitted with TP11 tonearm
- Speeds: 33⅓ and 45rpm
- Motor: 16-pole synchronous motor (AC), belt drive
- Platter: Zinc injection moulding, 300mm, 3.2kg
- Tonearm: Thorens TP11
- Cartridge fitted: Shure M75 series (moving magnet)
- Recommended tracking force: typically ¾–3g depending on specific M75 variant and stylus fitted
- Dimensions (W x H x D): 442 x 358 x 150mm
- Weight: approximately 8.5kg
- Year of Production: 1972–1976
- Country of Origin: Switzerland
Please note that the Shure M75 name covers several variants (including M75-6, M75E, M75EJ and M75G) sharing the same body but different styli and specifications; the exact variant fitted to this unit has not been confirmed, so tracking force and output figures above are given as a general range rather than an exact specification. We’re happy to confirm the precise variant on request if this is important to you.
Important Owner’s Notes
This turntable is now over 45 years old. The drive belt and the sub-chassis suspension grommets are the classic wearing parts on any Thorens of this design and era; if not recently renewed, these are worth budgeting for as routine maintenance, and we’re happy to advise. The dust cover supplied with this unit is a non-original replacement, not the cover originally fitted by Thorens; this has no effect on the turntable’s performance but is noted here for clarity. As with any secondhand cartridge, we’d recommend a stylus check before regular use to confirm remaining life.
Why Buy From Us
With over 40 years of experience in the Hi-Fi industry, we are well placed to assess and test equipment of this type. Every item we list is fully inspected and tested before sale — this unit was checked by Andrew in our workshop.
When you buy from us you can expect:
- Full inspection and testing prior to listing — not simply a visual check
- A 3-month guarantee on every item we sell
- Transparent descriptions with no omissions
- Professional packaging to ensure safe delivery
- After-sales support available by phone or email should you have any questions
Summary
A genuinely great-condition example of Thorens’ respected suspended-chassis design from the early 1970s, fitted with a classic Shure M75 series cartridge. Supplied with a non-original dust cover as noted above. This is a single-unit listing. Please feel free to get in touch with any questions prior to purchase.
