Thorens TD-295 Mk IV

The Thorens TD 295 turntable is the top model of the basic series. As with the lower models, it features automatic control of the instrument. In this case it is an automatic end-of-play shut-off. Included in the price of the turntable is Audio technica's high quality and proven AT-95E transmission.

The Thorens 295 is a turntable of classic construction with a well-made rectangular chassis with a hinged dust cover. The basic material of the well-made chassis is MDF. The bottom part is a four-layer sandwich, the top is available in several colours with an exclusive piano lacquer, applied in several layers. Effective insulation from the base is provided by three elastomeric legs in a conical shape. The dynamically balanced platter is made of zinc alloy and weighs 2.3 kg. The platter is mounted on a sub-platter, rotating in a bearing with patented Thorens Safeguard technology. A felt pad is used to cushion the platter. The platter is driven by an AC synchronous motor powered by a 15V mains adaptor connected via an electronic oscillator, which allows a speed selection of 33 and 45 rpm. The turntable is started by a button next to the speed switch. The end switch-off is provided by an optocoupler , which does not mechanically stress either the arm or the tip of the cartridge.The TP 41 arm has an effective length of 229mm / 9" / and moves in spiked bearings. A counterweight with a vertical force scale on the tip is connected to it via an elastomeric insulating insert. Antiskating is classically solved by means of a suspended roller on the string. The internal wiring of the arm is solved by Linz type wires which are led out to the connector block. This makes it possible to use specialised and quantum interconnecting wiring.

Commissioning the turntable is very simple. Just unpack it optically and play it, as it is already professionally set up from the factory. The end switch works really perfectly and compared to audiophile models without a switch it is a real relief. The turntable has excellent noise reduction. The bearing is precise, perfectly quiet and the chassis design perfectly eliminates vibrations coming from the room during very loud reproduction.

The TD 295 is a very well made turntable with easy operation, low noise and low fluctuation.

• Operation: semi-automatic
• Electronically controlled AC synchronous motor
• Arm: Thorens TP 41
• External power supply