Garrard 301 or 401?

I suspect that there are more users of these on HIFI Wigwam or Vinyl Engine, you might want to check them for threads or post there. Also Audio Asylum.

I would go for 401 if you mainly listen to rock...it is newer design and about in that era. Both these tables benefit with updates and dedicated power supply!!!especially if you want the timing right for your rock music!

the 401 is ugly as sin, if that's an issue for you.

301 grease bearing is one of the top vintage idlers with Lenco L70 / 75 and Thorens TD 124 and EMT 930 . If you put it in a heavy plinth ( Giant ply or slate) it is a wonderful sounding turntable, with slam and dynamics hardly reached since.

I'd base the decision primarily on aesthetics-since they're basically the same design, you'd need to have a pretty nuanced ear to hear any difference between models. There will be a much greater differential for any given deck dependent on it's post-resurrection condition, and the plinth you use.

As for those aesthetics, I own a G301, but unlike (apparently) others, I think the G401 looks great-just different. Plus, they tend to be a bit less expensive. Either way, a good choice.