Turntables Comparison: Pro-Ject Essential II vs Thorens TD 240-2

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

Pro-Ject Essential II

Pro-Ject Essential II

  • Brand Pro-Ject
  • Frequency Response, Hz 20 - 25000
  • Weight, Kg/pounds 3.7/8.8
  • Power Consumption, W 3
  • Type moving magnet (MM)
Thorens TD 240-2

Thorens TD 240-2

  • Brand Thorens
  • Frequency Response, Hz 20-2000
  • Weight, Kg/pounds 6.4/14.1
  • Power Consumption, W 1.5
  • Type THORENS TAS 267

Quick Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?

Deciding between the Pro-Ject Essential II and the Thorens TD 240-2 depends on your available space, storage capacity goals, and everyday usage style:

Best For Maximum Capacity

Pro-Ject Essential II

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 240-2

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.

Specifications

Specification Pro-Ject Essential II Thorens TD 240-2
Cartridge
Appropriate Needle Pressure, G 3,5 —
Type moving magnet (MM) THORENS TAS 267
Supplied Headshell Weight, G 5 —
Motor
Torque >4.5 kgf-cm —
Speed, RPM 33.3, 45 33, 45, 78
Platter Type aluminum diecast —
Drive Method belt Belt-Drive
Wow & Flutter (WRMS), % 0.25 0.7
Controls
Pitch Variation, % +/-1,5 —
Pitch Control No —
Operation Type full manual manual
Braking System — —
Dimensions
Size, Cm/inches 11.2 x 41.5 x 33.5/4.4 x 16.5 x 13 13 x 43 x 36.5/5.12 x 16.9 x 14.3
Weight, Kg/pounds 3.7/8.8 6.4/14.1
Power
Power Consumption, W 3 1.5
Features
Other has not —
45 RPM Adapter Yes —
Dust Cover Yes Yes
Sound
Output Level 4 mV nominal at 1 kHz, 5 cm/sec —
Gain — —
Signal To Noise Ratio, DB 65 72
Frequency Response, Hz 20 - 25000 20-2000
Stylus
Model Ortofon OM-5E —
Type moving magnet (MM) THORENS TAS 267
Replaceable Yes Yes
Connections
Other has not —
RCA 1 1
USB — —

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Frequently Asked Questions

The main differences center around storage capacity, form factor, and convenience. The Pro-Ject Essential II provides extensive bulk storage capacity best suited for homes, garages, or basements needing deep freeze space. In contrast, the Thorens TD 240-2 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 Pro-Ject Essential II. If you have limited room in a kitchen, apartment, dorm, or office and prefer easy eye-level access to items, choose the Thorens TD 240-2.