Compare detailed specifications, side-by-side differences, verified user reviews, and buying recommendations to help you make the right choice.
Deciding between the Pioneer PL-990 and the Thorens TD 170-1 depends on your available space, storage capacity goals, and everyday usage style:
Designed for large households, bulk grocery shoppers, and long-term storage where total cubic feet is the highest priority.
Ideal for apartments, offices, dorms, or secondary kitchen use where space efficiency and neat organization are paramount.
| Specification | Pioneer PL-990 | Thorens TD 170-1 |
|---|---|---|
| Cartridge | ||
| Type | moving magnet (MM) | moving magnet (MM) |
| Supplied Headshell Weight, G | 3,5 | 5 |
| Appropriate Needle Pressure, G | 2,5 | 1,5 |
| Motor | ||
| Speed, RPM | 33.3, 45 | 33.3, 45, 78 |
| Platter Type | aluminum diecast | aluminum diecast |
| Drive Method | belt | belt |
| Wow & Flutter (WRMS), % | 0.25 | — |
| Torque | >4.5 kgf-cm | — |
| Controls | ||
| Pitch Control | No | No |
| Operation Type | full automatic | full automatic |
| Braking System | electronic | electronic |
| Pitch Variation, % | No | No |
| Power | ||
| Power Consumption, W | 2 | 1.5 |
| Features | ||
| Other | has not | has not |
| 45 RPM Adapter | Yes | Yes |
| Dust Cover | Yes | Yes |
| Sound | ||
| Output Level | — | 4 mV nominal at 1 kHz, 5 cm/sec |
| Gain | — | — |
| Signal To Noise Ratio, DB | 50 | 68 |
| Frequency Response, Hz | 20 - 20000 | 20 - 22000 |
| Stylus | ||
| Model | PZP1004 | Ortofon OM10 |
| Type | moving magnet (MM) | moving magnet (MM) |
| Replaceable | Yes | Yes |
| Connections | ||
| Other | has not | has not |
| RCA | 1 | 1 |
| Dimensions | ||
| Weight, Kg/pounds | 2.6/5.8 | 4.6/8.8 |
| Size, Cm/inches | 10 x 42 x 34.2/3.9 x 16.5 x 13.5 | 11.9 x 44 x 36/4.3 x 17.3 x 14.1 |
The main differences center around storage capacity, form factor, and convenience. The Pioneer PL-990 provides extensive bulk storage capacity best suited for homes, garages, or basements needing deep freeze space. In contrast, the Thorens TD 170-1 offers a compact upright design that fits into smaller spaces with convenient shelf organization.
Chest-style freezers generally excel in thermal efficiency because cold air naturally settles at the bottom and does not escape when the lid is lifted. Compact upright models have lower total kilowatt-hour usage simply due to their smaller cubic volume, making both designs efficient for their respective intended purposes.
Both products are available through official brand stores and authorized retailers with full manufacturer warranties and fast delivery options. Click the "Check Best Price" buttons in the comparison cards above to view today's latest promotions, official deals, and current availability.
Measure your available floor clearance first. If you have open space in a garage, basement, or utility room and want to freeze items in bulk, choose the Pioneer PL-990. If you have limited room in a kitchen, apartment, dorm, or office and prefer easy eye-level access to items, choose the Thorens TD 170-1.