What To Know
- The Thorens TD 1500, on the other hand, has a more traditional design with a solid wood plinth and a heavy platter made from cast aluminum.
- The Thorens TD 1500 is a great choice for those who are looking for a more traditional turntable with a warm and smooth sound quality.
- It is a bit more expensive than the Rega Planar 2, but it offers a number of features that make it worth the extra cost, such as an electronic speed control system and a more robust construction.
The world of vinyl records is experiencing a resurgence, and with it comes the need for high-quality turntables. Two of the most popular brands in the market are Rega and Thorens, both known for their exceptional engineering and sound quality. In this article, we will compare the Rega Planar 2 and the Thorens TD 1500 to help you make an informed decision about which turntable is right for you.
Design and Construction
The Rega Planar 2 is a minimalist turntable with a sleek and modern design. Its plinth is made from a lightweight and rigid MDF, while the platter is made from a precision-machined aluminum alloy. The Thorens TD 1500, on the other hand, has a more traditional design with a solid wood plinth and a heavy platter made from cast aluminum. Both turntables feature adjustable feet for leveling.
Tonearm and Cartridge
The Rega Planar 2 comes with the RB220 tonearm, which is made from a lightweight and rigid aluminum alloy. It features a precision-machined bearing and a low-friction design. The Thorens TD 1500 comes with the TP 150 tonearm, which is also made from aluminum alloy and features a precision-machined bearing. Both tonearms are equipped with Ortofon cartridges, the Rega Planar 2 with the Ortofon 2M Red and the Thorens TD 1500 with the Ortofon 2M Blue.
Speed Control
The Rega Planar 2 features a belt-driven motor with a manual speed change. The Thorens TD 1500 also features a belt-driven motor, but it has an electronic speed control system that allows for more precise speed adjustment.
Sound Quality
The Rega Planar 2 is known for its lively and engaging sound quality. It produces a wide and detailed soundstage with excellent clarity and dynamics. The Thorens TD 1500, on the other hand, is known for its warm and smooth sound quality. It produces a more laid-back and relaxed soundstage with a rich and full bass response.
Which Turntable is Right for You?
The Rega Planar 2 is a great choice for those who are looking for a high-quality turntable that offers excellent sound quality and value for money. It is easy to set up and use, and it is a great option for both beginners and experienced audiophiles.
The Thorens TD 1500 is a great choice for those who are looking for a more traditional turntable with a warm and smooth sound quality. It is a bit more expensive than the Rega Planar 2, but it offers a number of features that make it worth the extra cost, such as an electronic speed control system and a more robust construction.
Rega Planar 2 vs Thorens: A Summary
| Feature | Rega Planar 2 | Thorens TD 1500 |
| — | — | — |
| Design | Modern and sleek | Traditional and solid |
| Plinth | MDF | Solid wood |
| Platter | Precision-machined aluminum alloy | Cast aluminum |
| Tonearm | RB220 | TP 150 |
| Cartridge | Ortofon 2M Red | Ortofon 2M Blue |
| Speed Control | Manual | Electronic |
| Sound Quality | Lively and engaging | Warm and smooth |
| Price | More affordable | More expensive |
In a nutshell
Both the Rega Planar 2 and the Thorens TD 1500 are excellent turntables that offer great sound quality and value for money. Ultimately, the best turntable for you will depend on your individual preferences and budget.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
Q: Which turntable is better, the Rega Planar 2 or the Thorens TD 1500?
A: Both turntables offer excellent sound quality, but they have different strengths. The Rega Planar 2 is known for its lively and engaging sound, while the Thorens TD 1500 is known for its warm and smooth sound.
Q: Which turntable is easier to set up, the Rega Planar 2 or the Thorens TD 1500?
A: The Rega Planar 2 is easier to set up than the Thorens TD 1500. The Rega Planar 2 comes with a pre-mounted cartridge, while the Thorens TD 1500 requires you to mount the cartridge yourself.
Q: Which turntable is more durable, the Rega Planar 2 or the Thorens TD 1500?
A: The Thorens TD 1500 is more durable than the Rega Planar 2. The Thorens TD 1500 has a solid wood plinth and a heavy platter made from cast aluminum, while the Rega Planar 2 has a lightweight MDF plinth and a platter made from aluminum alloy.