Pro-Ject Audio X1 Turntable Preview

Check out the full review for the Pro-Ject Audio X1 Turntable.

Coming off my review of the Pro-Ject Essential III, Pro-Ject ever so graciously sent along a significant step up; the X1.

The X1 is based on the same concept as the P1, their entry-level turntable, but improved in every way with modern materials and newer production methods. Inside, is a sophisticated DC/AC generator board, combined with a button-operated speed control board, delivering clean and stable power to the quiet-running motor. You have the option of 33 1/3, 45 and 78 rpm. I have no 78’s in my collection, so I won’t be giving that a go, but for those that do, you’re covered.

The X1 ships with a heavy, 3/4″ non-resonant acrylic platter (Yay!) and also features a ‘super-stiff’, 8.6”, tempered Carbon/Aluminum sandwich construction tonearm. This new tonearm design is light with improved resistance to external interference. The X1 can be set for azimuth and VTA adjustment. Also supplied is a TPE-damped counterweight which further reduces cartridge-tonearm resonances.

My X1 came fitted with a Sumiko Rainier Oyster series moving-magnet cartridge. Pro-Ject’s website details the Ortofon Pick-It S2 MM phono cartridge. But for North America, it’s the Sumiko that is supplied.

Included in the box are Connect-IT E RCA cables, a DC power supply, and a dust cover. Lastly, height-adjustable feet in an Aluminum/TPE sandwich construction are a very exclusive but necessary feature to level the turntable and effectively isolate it from the surface it is placed on. Top it all off with eight layers of paint and a hand-polished finish, the X1 is a luxurious offering.

But, do all these improvements yield a better sound? How does it compare to the Essential III that I just reviewed? All this and more in my full review. Stay tuned!

Check out the full review for the Pro-Ject Audio X1 Turntable.