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Unveiling the titans: thorens td 201 vs rega planar 2

Rob is a seasoned home improvement writer with over 15 years of experience researching and recommending products for the home. Prior to starting Nurturing Homeaid, he wrote extensively for This Old House magazine and has been featured as a home expert on several TV and radio programs. An avid DIY-er,...

What To Know

  • The TD 201 includes a built-in phono preamplifier, which allows it to be connected directly to an amplifier without the need for an external preamp.
  • If you are looking for a more detailed and analytical sound with a wider soundstage, the Planar 2 is a better option.
  • The TD 201 is a classic design with a warm, natural sound, while the Planar 2 is a more modern design with a detailed and analytical sound.

In the realm of audiophile turntables, the Thorens TD 201 and Rega Planar 2 stand as two of the most respected and sought-after models. Both turntables have garnered acclaim for their exceptional sound quality, precision engineering, and timeless designs. However, each turntable offers a unique set of features and performance characteristics, making it essential to compare the Thorens TD 201 vs. Rega Planar 2 to determine which one is the better choice for your audio system.

Design and Construction

The Thorens TD 201 is a classic turntable design that has remained largely unchanged since its introduction in the 1980s. It features a heavy, non-resonant plinth made of medium-density fiberboard (MDF) that provides excellent isolation from external vibrations. The TD 201 also utilizes a belt-drive system that provides smooth and quiet operation.

The Rega Planar 2, on the other hand, employs a more modern design. It features a lightweight plinth made of a special polymer material that is both rigid and non-resonant. The Planar 2 also uses a belt-drive system, but it incorporates a unique “RB220” tonearm that is renowned for its precision and stability.

Performance

When it comes to performance, both the Thorens TD 201 and Rega Planar 2 deliver exceptional sound quality. The TD 201 is known for its warm, natural sound with excellent bass response. The Planar 2, on the other hand, offers a more detailed and analytical sound with a wider soundstage.

In terms of speed accuracy, both turntables perform admirably. The TD 201 uses a DC motor with electronic speed control, while the Planar 2 uses a 24-volt AC synchronous motor. Both systems provide consistent and accurate speed, ensuring stable playback.

Features and Accessories

The Thorens TD 201 and Rega Planar 2 come with a range of features and accessories to enhance their performance and usability. The TD 201 includes a built-in phono preamplifier, which allows it to be connected directly to an amplifier without the need for an external preamp. The Planar 2, on the other hand, does not include a phono preamp, so you will need to purchase one separately.

Both turntables come with dust covers to protect them from dust and debris. The TD 201’s dust cover is made of clear acrylic, while the Planar 2’s dust cover is made of smoked acrylic.

Price and Availability

The Thorens TD 201 and Rega Planar 2 are both available at a similar price point. The TD 201 typically retails for around $1,000, while the Planar 2 retails for around $1,100. Both turntables are widely available from audio retailers and online stores.

Which Turntable Is Right for You?

Ultimately, the choice between the Thorens TD 201 and Rega Planar 2 depends on your individual preferences and needs. If you prefer a warm, natural sound with excellent bass response, the TD 201 is an excellent choice. If you are looking for a more detailed and analytical sound with a wider soundstage, the Planar 2 is a better option.

The Final Verdict: Thorens TD 201 vs. Rega Planar 2

Both the Thorens TD 201 and Rega Planar 2 are exceptional turntables that offer excellent sound quality and performance. The TD 201 is a classic design with a warm, natural sound, while the Planar 2 is a more modern design with a detailed and analytical sound. Ultimately, the choice between these two turntables is a matter of personal preference.

What You Need to Know

1. Which turntable has a better build quality?

Both the Thorens TD 201 and Rega Planar 2 are well-built turntables. The TD 201 has a heavy, non-resonant plinth, while the Planar 2 has a lightweight, rigid plinth. Both turntables use high-quality components and materials.

2. Which turntable has a better sound quality?

Both the Thorens TD 201 and Rega Planar 2 offer excellent sound quality. The TD 201 has a warm, natural sound with excellent bass response. The Planar 2 has a more detailed and analytical sound with a wider soundstage.

3. Which turntable is easier to use?

Both the Thorens TD 201 and Rega Planar 2 are relatively easy to use. The TD 201 has a built-in phono preamplifier, which makes it easier to connect to an amplifier. The Planar 2 does not have a built-in phono preamp, so you will need to purchase one separately.

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Rob Sanders

Rob is a seasoned home improvement writer with over 15 years of experience researching and recommending products for the home. Prior to starting Nurturing Homeaid, he wrote extensively for This Old House magazine and has been featured as a home expert on several TV and radio programs. An avid DIY-er, Rob takes pride in testing out the latest tools and gadgets to see how they can make home projects easier. When it comes to heating systems, he's evaluated over 50 different furnace and boiler models over the years. Rob founded Nurturing Homeaid with his business partner Jim in 2020 to provide homeowners with genuine product recommendations they can trust. In his free time, Rob enjoys remodeling old homes with his family and traveling to visit architectural landmarks across the country. He holds a bachelor's degree in Journalism from Syracuse University.
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