If you’re a vinyl enthusiast, you’ve probably heard of Thorens turntables and Ortofon cartridges.
But did you know that these two brands have a history of collaboration?
In fact, Thorens has been using Ortofon cartridges on their turntables for decades.
One of their latest models, the Thorens TD 1500, even comes pre-installed with an Ortofon 2M Bronze cartridge.
But what makes this partnership so special?
In this article, we’ll explore the relationship between Thorens and Ortofon and how it has impacted the world of vinyl playback.
So sit back, relax, and let’s dive in!
Are Thorens Phono Cartridges Made By Ortofon
Yes, Thorens phono cartridges are made by Ortofon. In fact, Thorens has been using Ortofon cartridges on their turntables for many years.
Ortofon is a Danish company that specializes in the manufacturing of high-quality phono cartridges. They have been in the business for over 100 years and are known for their innovative designs and exceptional sound quality.
Thorens, on the other hand, is a Swiss company that has been producing turntables since the 1950s. They are known for their precision engineering and attention to detail.
The partnership between Thorens and Ortofon has resulted in some of the best turntables on the market. The Thorens TD 1500, for example, comes pre-installed with an Ortofon 2M Bronze cartridge, which is known for its excellent tracking ability and detailed sound reproduction.
But why did Thorens choose to partner with Ortofon?
One reason is that Ortofon cartridges are known for their compatibility with a wide range of turntables. This means that Thorens can offer their customers a high-quality cartridge that is guaranteed to work seamlessly with their turntables.
Another reason is that Ortofon cartridges are renowned for their exceptional sound quality. By using an Ortofon cartridge, Thorens can ensure that their turntables deliver the best possible sound performance.
A Brief History Of Thorens And Ortofon
Thorens and Ortofon are both companies with rich histories in the audio industry. Thorens was founded in 1883 in Sainte-Croix, Switzerland, as a producer of musical boxes and clock movements. In 1903, they started producing Edison-type phonographs and went on to produce a range of audiophile record players in the 1950s and 1960s that are still highly regarded today. Thorens has continued to produce high-quality turntables to this day.
Ortofon, on the other hand, started as a development laboratory for tone films in 1918 in Denmark. They became an important force in fostering the gramophone industry in the 1940s and have since developed, manufactured, and marketed world-acclaimed phono cartridges and components for the medical and hearing aid industries.
The partnership between Thorens and Ortofon began many years ago when Thorens decided to use Ortofon cartridges on their turntables. This partnership has resulted in some of the best turntables on the market, with Thorens’ precision engineering and attention to detail combined with Ortofon’s exceptional sound quality.
Today, Thorens continues to use Ortofon cartridges on many of their turntables. The Thorens TD 203 Entry Level Turntable, for example, comes pre-installed with an Ortofon 2M Blue cartridge. While some reviewers have noted difficulties adjusting the tonearm and anti-skate weight on this particular turntable, overall it is considered a decent buy for its price range.
The Benefits Of Using Ortofon Cartridges On Thorens Turntables
There are several benefits to using Ortofon cartridges on Thorens turntables.
First and foremost, Ortofon cartridges are designed to provide exceptional sound quality. They are known for their ability to accurately reproduce the nuances of music, resulting in a rich and detailed sound that is sure to impress even the most discerning audiophile.
Secondly, Ortofon cartridges are highly compatible with Thorens turntables. This means that users can easily install and use an Ortofon cartridge on their Thorens turntable without any compatibility issues.
Thirdly, Ortofon cartridges are designed with durability in mind. They are built to last for many years, ensuring that users can enjoy their Thorens turntable with an Ortofon cartridge for a long time without needing to replace it.
Finally, Ortofon cartridges offer a wide range of options to users. From the entry-level 2M Red cartridge to the high-end Cadenza series, there is an Ortofon cartridge for every budget and need. This means that users can choose the perfect cartridge for their Thorens turntable, ensuring that they get the best possible sound performance for their money.
Thorens And Ortofon’s Latest Collaboration: The TD 1500
The Thorens TD 1500 is the latest collaboration between Thorens and Ortofon. This turntable features a sub-chassis that decouples the turntable and tonearm shelf from the motor and frame by means of three conical springs. This principle was first introduced in the Thorens TD 150, which was released in 1965 and started a technical revolution in record player manufacturing.
The TD 1500 takes this principle to the next level by allowing the springs to be adjusted from above through corresponding holes in the platter. This makes correct adjustment much easier, ensuring that the turntable is always operating at its best.
The speed of the DC motor is electronically monitored by an incremental encoder, which ensures that deviations, such as those caused by a broom, are automatically corrected. This results in very good wow and flutter values, which means that the turntable delivers a stable and accurate playback.
One unique feature of the TD 1500 is its XLR outputs in addition to the usual pair of RCA jacks. This enables true balanced operation with a suitable MC cartridge, which is a real selling point in its class.
The TD 1500 also comes with a newly developed Thorens TP 150 tonearm, which is similar to the TP 124 used on the new TD 124 DD. It has an effective mass of 14 grams and is adjustable in height and azimuth. The arm is equipped with a standard SME connector, which means that headshells can easily be switched or other cartridges mounted.
The anti-skating is set by a sliding weight in the base of the arm, which is adjusted on a nylon thread guided over a ruby bearing. The arm also comes pre-installed with a high-quality and pre-adjusted Ortofon 2M Bronze pickup, which features a naked diamond with Fine Line cut. This proves to be a perfect playing partner due to its exceptional tracking ability and detailed sound reproduction.
Other Thorens Turntables Compatible With Ortofon Cartridges
In addition to the Thorens TD 1500, there are other Thorens turntables that are compatible with Ortofon cartridges. The Thorens TD 203 Entry Level Turntable, for example, comes pre-installed with an Ortofon 2M Blue cartridge. This turntable is a great option for those who are just starting out with vinyl or who are looking for an affordable upgrade.
Another option is the Thorens TD 403 DD Puristic Direct Drive Turntable, which also comes with an Ortofon 2M Blue cartridge. This turntable is designed for audiophiles who demand the highest levels of performance and precision.
If you already own a Thorens turntable and are looking to upgrade your cartridge, it’s important to make sure that the cartridge you choose is compatible with your turntable. Some Thorens turntables are only compatible with MM (Moving Magnet) cartridges, while others can accommodate both MM and MC (Moving Coil) cartridges. It’s also important to consider the weight and compliance of the cartridge, as these factors can affect the sound quality and tracking ability of your turntable.
How Thorens And Ortofon Have Impacted The Vinyl Industry
Thorens and Ortofon have had a significant impact on the vinyl industry. Thorens turntables are known for their precision engineering and attention to detail, while Ortofon cartridges are known for their exceptional sound quality.
The partnership between these two companies has resulted in some of the best turntables on the market, offering customers a high-quality cartridge that is guaranteed to work seamlessly with their turntables. This has helped to improve the overall sound performance of turntables and has contributed to the resurgence of vinyl in recent years.
Ortofon’s use of diamond in their stylus construction has also had a significant impact on the vinyl industry. The use of diamond ensures that the stylus is able to track the record accurately and with minimal distortion, resulting in a more detailed and precise sound reproduction. This has helped to further improve the overall sound quality of vinyl records.
Thorens and Ortofon’s commitment to quality and innovation has helped to set a high standard for the vinyl industry. Their partnership has resulted in turntables that are not only reliable and exquisite sounding but also offer better long-term value than mass-produced MDF tables overseas. As a result, audiophiles have come to rely on Thorens and Ortofon for high-quality turntables and cartridges, helping to fuel the resurgence of vinyl as a preferred medium for music lovers.
Conclusion: The Future Of Thorens And Ortofon’s Partnership.
Looking ahead, it’s clear that the partnership between Thorens and Ortofon will continue to thrive. Both companies are committed to producing high-quality turntables and cartridges that offer exceptional sound quality and precision engineering.
With the release of the new Thorens TD 124 DD, which features an innovative “High Precision” Direct Drive and a tonearm TP 124 that can be precisely adjusted for optimal sound performance, it’s clear that Thorens is continuing to push the boundaries of what is possible in turntable design.
And with Ortofon consistently pushing the envelope with their cartridge designs, it’s likely that we will see more exciting collaborations between these two companies in the future. For vinyl enthusiasts who value exceptional sound quality and precision engineering, the Thorens/Ortofon partnership is definitely one to watch.
