Pro-Ject A1

The Pro-Ject A1 marks the Austrian manufacturer’s entry into the world of automatic turntables. This model combines the convenience of an automatic turntable with audio performance true to Pro-Ject’s identity. Designed to suit both beginners and seasoned audiophiles, the A1 focuses on delivering a pleasant listening experience while remaining easy to use.

Sleek Design for Optimal Performance

The Pro-Ject A1 features an elegant and minimalist design, typical of the brand. Its solid wood chassis, mounted on silicone feet, ensures optimal vibration damping. The aluminum platter with internal anti-resonance reinforcement also helps reduce background noise and distortion.

The ultra-light 8.3-inch aluminum tonearm is paired with a carbon fiber-reinforced polymer headshell. This combination provides stability, rigidity, and excellent internal resonance damping. The pre-installed Ortofon OM10 cartridge completes this high-quality setup, ensuring precise groove tracking and faithful sound reproduction.

Automation for Ease of Use

The A1 stands out with its fully automatic operation, a first for Pro-Ject. A single button is all it takes to start playback: the tonearm automatically positions itself at the beginning of the record and returns to its rest once the side is finished. This mechanism is designed to completely disengage during playback, preserving sound quality.

Switching between 33 and 45 RPM speeds is done electronically, without the need to handle the belt. The tracking force and anti-skating are pre-set at the factory, making the A1 ready to use in just seconds. These features make it an ideal turntable for beginners while meeting the demands of seasoned audiophiles.

Versatile Sound Performance

The A1 is equipped with a built-in, switchable phono preamp. This feature allows the turntable to connect directly to a hi-fi amplifier with a line input or to use an external phono preamp for added flexibility. The low-capacitance semi-symmetrical output cable ensures optimal signal transmission.

The A1’s sound quality lives up to Pro-Ject’s standards. It delivers detailed and natural playback, with good instrument separation and a stable stereo image. Listeners will particularly appreciate the liveliness and dynamism of the sound, without excessive harshness.

German Craftsmanship, Austrian Expertise

Although designed by Pro-Ject in Austria, the A1 is handcrafted in Germany by a manufacturer specializing in automatic turntables. This collaboration combines expert knowledge in the field with Pro-Ject’s quality standards. The majority of components (98%) are produced in Germany, ensuring optimal quality control.

A Successful Entry into the World of Automatic Turntables

With the A1, Pro-Ject demonstrates its ability to innovate while staying true to its values. This automatic turntable offers excellent value for money, combining ease of use with high-level audio performance. It is an attractive option for those looking to explore or rediscover vinyl without worrying about complex adjustments.

Technical Specifications

Main Components

• Belt drive
• Ultra-light aluminum tonearm, 211 mm
• Damped aluminum platter
• Speeds: 33, 45 RPM
• Ortofon OM10 cartridge

Audio Performance

• Wow and flutter: 0.27% (33 RPM), 0.25% (45 RPM)
• Signal-to-noise ratio: 65 dB
• Effective tonearm length: 211 mm
• Overhang: 19.5 mm

Ortofon OM10 Cartridge Specifications

• Frequency response: 20-25,000 Hz
• Channel separation: 22 dB at 1 kHz
• Output voltage: 4 mV
• Recommended load impedance: 47 kΩ
• Recommended tracking force: 1.8 g
• Weight: 6 g

Physical Characteristics

• Power consumption: 1.5 W
• Dimensions (W × H × D): 430 × 130 × 365 mm
• Weight: 5.6 kg

Included Accessories

• 15 V DC / 0.8 A power supply
• Protective cover
• 45 RPM adapter
• Felt mat
• Phono cable