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AR-XA or Thorens 165 vs current tables

I'm wondering how the vintage AR-XA and Thorens 165 measure up to current turntables. You can get one these in good working order for half the price of Rega P2, and about $100 less than a P1.

Let's say you even went so far as the re-lube them, are they still comparable?

Thanks.
jonpb
viridian's avatar
viridian
4,184 posts
 
Wendell, I stand corrected. The issue with the AR tables as relates to record damage is the variability in the arm bearings, yours being good, no doubt. My luck was not as good, with both horizontal and vertical friction being excessive on the Art Dudley test. Agreed though, if this was your main turntable, I am sure that you would want to change out the arm for something finer.
narrod
1,064 posts
 
Yes, if the AR was my primary table the arm would be replaced.
I do enjoy playing it and it does make music I enjoy.
solex
4 posts
 
I do not have the experience that most are stating here.

I have and AR-XA with the stock arm and an AT-440Mla. I rewired the arm with Litz wire and dampened the top plate. I also added a SS thrust plate and polished the spindle bearing.

I also have a TD-160b MK II with an Linn Basik LVX arm and a Grado Sonata 1.5mV.

In my opinion the AR-XA equals the TD-160b (but I'm not done modding the TD-160)
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