Turntables Comparison: Denon VL12 PRIME vs Thorens TD 170-1

Compare detailed specifications, side-by-side differences, verified user reviews, and buying recommendations to help you make the right choice.

Denon VL12 PRIME

Denon VL12 PRIME

  • Brand Denon
  • Weight, Kg/pounds 12.4/27.4
  • Type dual magnet
  • Replaceable true
  • Drive Method direct
Thorens TD 170-1

Thorens TD 170-1

  • Brand Thorens
  • Weight, Kg/pounds 4.6/8.8
  • Type moving magnet (MM)
  • Replaceable true
  • Drive Method belt

Quick Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?

Deciding between the Denon VL12 PRIME and the Thorens TD 170-1 depends on your available space, storage capacity goals, and everyday usage style:

Best For Maximum Capacity

Denon VL12 PRIME

Designed for large households, bulk grocery shoppers, and long-term storage where total cubic feet is the highest priority.

  • Superior Volume: Easily stores bulk meats, frozen garden harvests, and family packs.
  • Cold Retention: Keeps food frozen significantly longer in power outages.
  • Energy Efficiency: Top-opening design keeps dense cold air trapped inside.
Best For Compact Spaces

Thorens TD 170-1

Ideal for apartments, offices, dorms, or secondary kitchen use where space efficiency and neat organization are paramount.

  • Space-Saving Footprint: Fits neatly under counters or in compact corners without intruding.
  • Upright Organization: Shelves allow you to organize and grab items without digging.
  • Everyday Convenience: Front-swing door provides quick, easy access anytime.

Pros & Cons

Denon VL12 PRIME

VS

Pros

    • High Torque Motor
    • Adjustable Pitch Range
    • Built-in RGB Lighting
    • Various connectivity options

Cons

    • Higher price tag
    • Heavy and larger in size

Thorens TD 170-1

VS

Pros

    • Superior Build Quality
    • Excellent Sound Quality
    • Stylish Design
    • Wide Range of Connectivity Options

Cons

    • Higher Price Point
    • Manual Operation

Specifications

Specification Denon VL12 PRIME Thorens TD 170-1
Cartridge
Appropriate Needle Pressure, G — 1,5
Type dual magnet moving magnet (MM)
Supplied Headshell Weight, G — 5
Motor
Torque >5 kgf-cm —
Speed, RPM 33.3, 45 33.3, 45, 78
Platter Type aluminum diecast aluminum diecast
Drive Method direct belt
Wow & Flutter (WRMS), % 0.15 —
Controls
Pitch Variation, % +/-8, +/-16, +/-50 No
Pitch Control Yes No
Operation Type full automatic full automatic
Braking System electronic electronic
Dimensions
Size, Cm/inches 15 x 45.1 x 35.5/5.9 x 17.8 x 14 11.9 x 44 x 36/4.3 x 17.3 x 14.1
Weight, Kg/pounds 12.4/27.4 4.6/8.8
Power
Power Consumption, W — 1.5
Features
Other has not has not
45 RPM Adapter Yes Yes
Dust Cover No Yes
Sound
Output Level — 4 mV nominal at 1 kHz, 5 cm/sec
Gain — —
Signal To Noise Ratio, DB — 68
Frequency Response, Hz — 20 - 22000
Stylus
Model — Ortofon OM10
Type dual magnet moving magnet (MM)
Replaceable Yes Yes
Connections
Other has not has not
RCA 1 1

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Frequently Asked Questions

The main differences center around storage capacity, form factor, and convenience. The Denon VL12 PRIME 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 listed on Amazon with full manufacturer warranties, customer reviews, and fast delivery options. Click the "Check Price on Amazon" buttons in the comparison cards above to view today's latest promotions, verified customer ratings, 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 Denon VL12 PRIME. 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.