Raven GT2 Basic
The GT2 is the evolution of the original Raven GT. In its revised version, it has transformed from an entry-level model into a true high-end turntable, capable of providing a precise foundation for even large tonearms and cartridges within a compact footprint. The latest version is the GT2 BASIC, which brings the GT2 into a more accessible price range for many music lovers.
The GT2 BASIC's motor control is integrated into the solid aluminum base, eliminating the need for a separate external unit. The power connector and on/off switch are conveniently located on the rear of the turntable. A meticulously modified Pabst motor is recessed and securely mounted within the plinth. The only visible external component is a polished stainless steel idler pulley, discreetly positioned behind the massive platter. Even without the tonearm and armboard, the base unit weighs in at over 16 kg. It rests on three finely adjustable, acoustically optimized stainless steel feet.
A 16 mm stainless steel spindle with an embedded ball bearing is fixed in the center of the base. Even on a brand-new GT2 BASIC, a close inspection reveals traces of oil on the spindle. This is not surprising, as the bearing bushing and spindle are matched and optimized to the tightest tolerances before each assembly. The combination needs to run in at TW-ACUSTIC for a day at increased speed to ensure that everything fits perfectly.
The "BASIC" in the new GT2 BASIC refers to the platter made of heavy, specially formulated plastic. With its embedded bronze bearing bushing, this platter delivers a weight of approximately 6.5 kg to the spindle. A TW mat based on the Origin Live mat is included, which is a perfect match for the turntable both sonically and visually.
The GT2 BASIC can accommodate two tonearms. The new unit comes with a universal tonearm base containing a stainless steel insert compatible with the desired tonearm. A key feature of the new GT2 is the very simple adjustment of the tonearm base, which is designed to accommodate ten common tonearm geometries. This allows for precise adjustment of geometries for Rega, EMT, Jelco, Ortofon, Dynavector, Origin Live, Ikeda, Clearaudio, and Tri-Planar, among others, in seconds. Other tonearm lengths can also be easily accommodated by rotating the tonearm board on its axis. Naturally, all TW Acoustic tonearms are also compatible and are practically the natural partners for the turntable. Even a gigantic TW 12.9 tonearm can be adjusted.
Sonically, the GT2 BASIC plays with remarkable precision, rich bass, and a level of control usually only found in direct-drive turntables. If you like to tap your foot along to the music, this is the perfect choice. While it doesn't quite exude the same serene and relaxed performance as the larger models in the TW-ACUSTIC range, this is perfectly acceptable given its lower price.
The GT2 BASIC and the GT2 shown in the YouTube video have identical construction. They simply require slightly less effort to lift the platter.
Technical Specifications:
- Width of base: 420 mm
- Depth of base: 365 mm
- Height from bottom of base to top of platter: 135 mm (Note: height will be higher with tonearm installed)
Testberichte
The Raven GT2 Basic and 9.5 tonearm are currently the most affordable entry into the world of high-end turntables. No other turntable in this class delivers such dynamic, emotional, and spacious sound.
- Holger Barske, LP, 03/2025
It's refreshing that TW-Acustic isn't participating in the current hi-fi frenzy of "higher, faster, further"—especially when it comes to price. With the GT2 and the 10.5, Thomas Woschnick has created an exceptionally coherent and perfectly homogeneous turntable/tonearm combination that performs at a very high level. Even the most discerning analog enthusiasts should be delighted with it for decades to come.
- Dirk Sommer, HIFISTATEMENT, June 26, 2020
There's not much more for me to say, except that the TW Acustic Raven GT2 has completely captivated me. Some manufacturers certainly won't like hearing this, but Thomas Woschnick's "entry-level" turntable picks up where many so-called reference drives reach their limits. I'm forced to let the hard facts speak for themselves: the Dais will have to go. Whether the GT2 will ultimately replace my Nottingham Analogue remains to be seen, but it's definitely one of three candidates I'm considering. The other two turntables I'm eyeing cost two and a half and three times, respectively, as much as the TW Acustic. I think that says it all.
- Amré Ibrahim, image hifi, 5/2019
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Music should touch you – with depth, dynamism, and soul. Our turntables, tonearms, and phono preamplifiers are designed to reproduce this emotion authentically. Every detail, every component is crafted with passion and precision to transform sound back into music – authentic, vibrant, and pure.
