Thorens TD 190-2 Fully Automatic Turntable Review 2025

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Thorens TD 190-2 Fully Automatic Turntable Overview

The Thorens TD 190-2 is a solid choice for anyone looking to dive into vinyl. It's a fully automatic turntable, which means you can sit back and enjoy the music without worrying about lifting the needle.

During our testing, the belt-drive system delivered smooth playback. The sound quality was impressive, and it handled various genres well. However, there are a few quirks that might not make it perfect for everyone.

Design and Build Quality

The Thorens TD 190-2 boasts a sleek, modern design that fits well in any audio setup. Its minimalist look is complemented by a sturdy MDF plinth that helps reduce vibrations, ensuring a cleaner sound. I found the overall build quality to be impressive, providing a solid foundation for high-fidelity audio playback.

The turntable features a glossy finish, which not only looks great but also adds a touch of elegance to my living room. The removable dust cover protects the platter while also enhancing the aesthetic appeal. It’s a nice touch that shows Thorens cares about both functionality and style.

Setting it up was a breeze with clear instructions, making it accessible even for those new to turntables. The attention to detail in its construction shows that Thorens prioritizes a quality user experience right from the unboxing.

Fully Automatic Functionality

One of the standout features of the TD 190-2 is its fully automatic operation. With just the push of a button, the tonearm lifts, moves to the record, and gently places the stylus down. This makes it super user-friendly, especially for casual listeners who want to enjoy vinyl without fiddling with knobs and levers.

During my testing, I loved how the turntable automatically returns the tonearm to its rest position at the end of a record. This not only prevents needle wear but also allows me to enjoy my music without any interruptions. It's a thoughtful feature that really enhances the listening experience.

The automatic lift and return mechanism worked flawlessly, which is crucial for those who might be new to vinyl. It eliminates the worry of damaging records or needles, making it an excellent choice for beginners.

Sound Performance

The sound quality of the Thorens TD 190-2 is where it truly shines. With its belt-drive system, it delivers a warm, rich sound that brings out the best in my vinyl collection. I noticed a clear separation between instruments and a lovely depth in the soundstage during playback.

Using a quality cartridge, the turntable reproduced highs and lows beautifully, making it a joy to listen to various genres. Whether it was classical or rock, the TD 190-2 handled it all with grace. It’s satisfying to hear details in tracks I've listened to countless times before.

There’s also minimal background noise, which is a huge plus for any vinyl enthusiast. The isolation from vibrations means I can enjoy the music without distractions, enhancing the overall enjoyment of my listening sessions.

Ease of Use

The user experience with the TD 190-2 is fantastic. The intuitive controls make it easy to operate, even for those who might find turntables a bit daunting. Everything is clearly labeled, and I never felt lost while trying to figure out how to get my records spinning.

Changing records is straightforward, and the automatic features take away a lot of the hassle that can come with manual turntables. I appreciated how I could focus on the music rather than the mechanics of playing a record.

The included manual is also well-written, offering helpful tips for maintenance and setup. This attention to detail adds to the overall positive experience, making it a great choice for both newcomers and seasoned vinyl lovers alike.

Versatility and Connectivity

The TD 190-2 is designed with versatility in mind. It features both RCA outputs and a built-in phono preamp, allowing it to connect easily to various audio systems. This flexibility means you can use it with older receivers or modern setups effortlessly.

I found the built-in preamp to be a convenient addition, especially if you don't have a dedicated phono stage. It simplifies the setup process, and the sound quality remains high, which is a huge plus. I was impressed with how well it integrated with my existing audio equipment.

Additionally, the turntable is compatible with a range of cartridges, which allows for future upgrades as your vinyl collection grows. This adaptability means it can grow with you, making it a smart investment for anyone serious about vinyl.

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