Preliminary operations, Belt and platter Fig

Preliminary operations

Unpack the unit and all accessories.

Please keep the packaging for future use when transporting the device.

-Attach hinges (2) to the designated recesses at dust cover (Fig. 1).

-Insert dust cover hinges into the respective sockets.

Belt and platter (Fig. 2)

The belt comes already looped around the transmission area of the platter (10). A ribbon has been attached to the belt so that no tools are needed for its final installation.

Put platter onto axle (11) and turn it until cut-out has come above the motor pulley. By means of the ribbon lift off belt from platter and loop it around the motor pulley while making sure the belt sets in the centre of the pulley’s transmis- sion area. Lastly, remove ribbon.

You can now put the mat onto platter.

Connection to mains

The supplied mains adaptor is to be connected to socket (9). According to the voltage indicated on the unit’s nameplate it has to be plugged into a mains socket with either 230 V / 50 Hz or 115 V / 60 Hz for the primary side.

Connection to the amplifier or receiver

- Connect the audio leads (7) to the phono- input (MM) of your amplifier or receiver (red RCA-type plug = right channel, white RCA-type plug = left channel).

-Connect ground wire (8) to the ground connector on your amplifier.

Speed selection and start

This record player is started by selecting the speed of either 33 or 45 rpm.

Manual start, cue control

-Select the required platter speed, 33 or 45 rpm, by means of the switch (4), swivel the stylus protection cap upwards, lift the tone arm with the cueing lift lever (3).

-Now position tonearm over the lead-in groove of the record. By means of cue control lever (3). the tonearm can be smoothly lowered onto the grooves and thus preventing damage to your records.

-With the cue control lever the tonearm may also be lifted up at any position, even for brief inter- ruptions during playback. In such a case the platter continues to rotate.

Stop

This record player is to be switched off by lifting the tone arm with the cueing lever (3) and by moving the tonearm back to its rest, whereupon switch (4) is set to “0”.

Stylus DN 251 S

The stylus is subject to natural wear during normal playback. Therefore, we recommend you to have the stylus occasionally checked after approxi- mately 300 playing hours. A worn or damaged (splintered) diamond stylus is likely to chisel the modulation from the grooves and thus damage the record. Use only the dedicated (replacement) stylus types recommended in the technical date supplied with the cartridge. An imitated stylus may also cause an audible loss in sound quality and increased wear of records. Pull off the stylus in a slanted downward movement. Insert the new sty- lus in reverse order. (Fig. 3).

653-068 specifications

The THORENS 653-068 is a high-performance turntable that exemplifies precision engineering and audiophile-grade sound quality. As part of the renowned THORENS brand, which has a legacy of producing high-end audio equipment since the 1880s, the 653-068 combines both classic aesthetics and modern technological advancements to deliver an exceptional listening experience.

One of the standout features of the THORENS 653-068 is its meticulously crafted MDF plinth, which not only provides stability but also minimizes resonance, ensuring that the record's sound is reproduced with remarkable clarity. The sleek design is visually appealing and fits seamlessly into any home audio setup.

The turntable is equipped with a premium belt-drive system that ensures a smooth rotation of the platter, reducing motor noise and vibration. This system allows for accurate speed performance, which is crucial for achieving the best sound quality. The 653-068 supports both 33 and 45 RPM playback speeds, easily accommodating a wide variety of vinyl records.

Another significant feature is the high-quality aluminum platter. This heavy-duty component adds inertial mass, improving speed stability and further enhancing sound reproduction. The inclusion of a rubber mat on the platter helps in dampening vibrations, allowing the stylus to track the grooves of the record more accurately.

The tonearm of the THORENS 653-068 is engineered for precision and flexibility. It features an S-shaped design that allows for optimum tracking, enhancing the overall sonic performance. The adjustable counterweight and anti-skating mechanism provide further customization, catering to different cartridges and personal listening preferences.

In terms of connectivity, the turntable comes with a built-in phono preamplifier, making it compatible with both traditional amplifiers and modern audio equipment. This versatility ensures that users can easily integrate the THORENS 653-068 into their existing audio systems without the need for additional components.

Overall, the THORENS 653-068 is an excellent choice for both vinyl enthusiasts and those new to the format. Its combination of classic design elements, advanced technology, and attention to acoustic detail establishes it as a standout model in the world of high-fidelity audio. With its impressive features and build quality, the 653-068 promises a rich and immersive listening experience that will satisfy the most discerning audiophiles.