Thorens TD402 DD
Direct-drive, semi-automatic Thorens turntable fitted with a TP72 carbon tonearm and a pre-mounted Audio-Technica AT VM95E cartridge.
Description
The TD402 DD marks Thorens's entry into direct drive, an architecture previously absent from the Swiss brand's catalogue. Unlike belt-drive turntables, the motor here drives the platter directly, which limits transmission losses and allows for automatic start and stop. The turntable operates in semi-automatic mode and features a switchable MM phono preamplifier, allowing it to be connected directly to an amplifier, a hi-fi system or active speakers without a dedicated phono input.
The die-cast aluminium platter measures 12 inches (300 mm) in diameter and sits on an MDF chassis with a glossy wood finish, available in gloss black and gloss walnut. The TP72 tonearm, of carbon construction and straight type, has an effective length of 214.5 mm and an overhang of 19.5 mm; it is equipped with magnetic anti-skating and a removable headshell, making cartridge replacement or adjustment easier.
The Audio-Technica AT VM95E cartridge, factory pre-mounted, is based on a moving magnet (VM) generator using two magnets arranged in a V configuration. Its para-toroidal coils in high-purity copper and its elliptical diamond stylus (0.3 x 0.7 mil) mounted on an aluminium conical cantilever provide a frequency response from 20 Hz to 22 kHz, with channel separation of 20 dB and channel balance of 2 dB at 1 kHz. Output voltage reaches 4 mV and the recommended tracking force is 2 grams, within an adjustment range of 1.8 to 2.2 grams.
This turntable is aimed at an enthusiast seeking a reliable introduction to vinyl without multiplying the settings involved: automatic start-up, the built-in preamplifier and the pre-installed cartridge simplify everyday use, while retaining a level of finish and a tonearm design geared towards playback precision.
Technical specifications
| Speed | 33 1/3 rpm, 45 rpm |
| Speed switching | Manual (front-panel switch) |
| Finish | Glossy wood |
| Platter diameter | 12" (300 mm) |
| Tonearm type | Straight |
| Effective length | 214.5 mm |
| Overhang | 19.5 mm |
| Generator type | Moving magnet (VM) |
| Frequency response | 20 Hz - 22 kHz |
| Channel separation | 20 dB (1 kHz) |
| Channel balance | 2 dB (1 kHz) |
| Output voltage | 4 mV (1 kHz, 5 cm/sec) |
| Vertical tracking angle | 23° |
| Tracking force | 1.8 - 2.2 grams |
| Recommended tracking force | 2 grams |
| Static compliance | 17 x 10-6 cm/dyne |
| Dynamic compliance | 7 x 10-6 cm/dyne (100 Hz) |
| Coil impedance | 3.3 kOhms (1 kHz) |
| Recommended load impedance | 47 kOhms |
| Recommended load capacitance | 100 to 200 pF |
| Coil inductance | 550 mH (1 kHz) |
| DC resistance | 485 Ω |
| Coil wire used | T.P. Copper |
| Stylus mounting | Bounded Round Shank |
| Dimensions (W x H x D) | 420 x 141 x 355 mm |
| Weight | 5.8 kg |
What to check before buying used
The removable headshell on the TP72 tonearm warrants a check of the electrical contacts, which are often oxidised after several years of handling. The pre-mounted Audio-Technica AT VM95E cartridge should be examined under magnification: a worn stylus or a misaligned cantilever results in premature groove wear. Also check that the automatic start and stop function correctly, as is typical of direct drive, and that the motor shows no play or noise.
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