Garrard 401 or Thorens 125

If “quiet” is a very high priority, particularly freedom from rumble, the 125 is a better choice.  But, like many idler tables, the 401 sounds punchy and lively.  A local dealer in my area puts that table into many systems north of $100k; the only modern table he sells as high end is an Audio Note table, everything else are reconditioned idler tables.

I can only comment on the Garrard 401's older brother, the 301.  These turntables were built for longevity and 100% duty cycles in broadcast studios.  Mine is about 55 years old and as far as I know has never needed any repair or spare parts.  The only routine maintenance required was feeding a bit more grease into the main bearing from its built-in grease cup.

It was my dad's and to get it into tip-top shape I have replaced the main bearing with a much bigger one, and replaced the idler wheel and its bearings, the only things which were showing a bit of wear.  It was pretty easy to replace most of the springs at the same time.

I have not touched the motor.  The only thing I can think of to look out for is flats on the idler wheel, which are a sign that the table has been switched off at the mains while still running.

Mine comes up to full speed in under a second, and stops just as quickly.  If you are really fussy about pitch, they have always needed to run for about 10 minutes to warm up.

There's no electronics at all to fail!

Noise.  The 301 and 401 are inherently mechanically noisy.  However, there is a solid core of information on how to dramatically reduce the mechanical noise mostly having to do with plinth building.  The OEM plinth did not do it.  Once the noise issues are addressed, both are apparently superb TTs with a loyal following. There is not a similar group of fans around the TD125, but that does not mean much.

I wonder if you don't mean the Thorens 124, not the Thorens 125 which is an electronically controlled belt drive. The Thorens 124 uses an idler wheel like the Garrard to drive the platter.

I was in the same boat. I was looking for a 124 or 301 but most are in pretty well used condition.  

I ended up buying a new Sota.   Zero regrets , it sounds phenomenal. 

In my second system i have an old Garrard Lab 80. As others have mentioned those old idler drives can be noisy.   

I'd recommend a new table unless you like projects.