I have used both, right now I have a 401, I sold my 301. I used both tables with the exact same bearing and platter. I think the motor on the 401 is better. I got less noise with the 401. Overall I thought the 401 presented a more detailed picture with more "air". I hate to use those audiophile terms but that is exactly what I heard. So I sold my 301 and have not looked back.
Hope this helps, David
Hope this helps, David