Thorens TD 404 DD – direct-drive turntable with modern operation

Thorens TD 404 DD combines classic turntable tradition with stable direct drive and modern operation. The model draws inspiration from the TD 124 DD and is equipped with the Thorens TP 160 tonearm, electronic tonearm lift, as well as both RCA and balanced XLR outputs.

At the same time, the TD 404 DD stays true to the manual vinyl experience. However, features such as electronic e-Lift and auto-stop make everyday operation more practical. The result is a solid direct-drive turntable for those who appreciate Thorens' mechanical approach but also want modern features and good options for integrating the turntable into a serious hi-fi system.

If you are curious about vinyl as part of a modern hi-fi setup, you can also explore the subject further in the Lakridspizza podcast about vinyl and hi-fi.

Highlights

• Direct-drive turntable
• Thorens TP 160 tonearm
• Electronic tonearm lift
• Auto-stop
• Resonance-damped platter
• Integrated stroboscope
• Pitch control
• Balanced XLR outputs
• Gold-plated RCA outputs
• Height-adjustable, spring-loaded feet
• Sandwich-constructed chassis with 5 mm aluminum top
• Removable dust cover included
• Can be upgraded with TPN 124 linear power supply

Direct drive with adjustable speed

Thorens TD 404 DD uses a direct-drive motor, where the platter is driven directly instead of via a belt. At the same time, the platter has a resonance-damped design.

The integrated stroboscope makes it possible to visually check the rotational speed, while pitch control is used to fine-tune the speed. This gives you a direct-drive design combined with the ability to control and adjust a central part of vinyl playback yourself: the record's rotational speed.

TP 160 tonearm with electronic e-Lift

TD 404 DD comes with the Thorens TP 160 tonearm. However, operation differs from a completely traditional manual turntable because Thorens has integrated their revised electronic e-Lift.

The system lifts the tonearm electronically and works together with auto-stop, which stops playback at the end of the record. This is practical if you are not sitting ready by the turntable when the last song ends, and it also limits the time the cartridge stylus sits unnecessarily in the groove.

RCA and balanced XLR connections

On the back of the Thorens TD 404 DD, you will find both gold-plated RCA outputs and balanced XLR connections. This makes it possible to connect the turntable to a compatible balanced phono preamp if the rest of your system supports it.

The turntable stands on three height-adjustable, spring-loaded feet designed to isolate it from the surface underneath. The chassis has a sandwich construction with a 5 mm thick aluminum top, with a focus on solid construction and limiting resonances around playback.

Option to upgrade the power supply

Thorens TD 404 DD can be upgraded with the Thorens TPN 124 linear power supply. This gives you the option to build further on the turntable later if you want to work further with the power supply in your vinyl setup.

With a weight of 12.5 kg, direct drive, TP 160 tonearm, electronic e-Lift, and flexible connection options, the TD 404 DD is built as a permanent part of a serious vinyl and hi-fi setup.

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