Project X1 (Walnut) (inc. Pick-IT S2 cart) Turntable
In 1991 Pro-Ject Audio Systems started a revolution in the HiFi industry with the introduction of the Pro-Ject 1 turntable; a new high-end, low-budget turntable released at a time when CD was king. Against all odds, Pro-Ject were creating interest in analogue audio at a time when others were turning their backs, and the success was only down to three critical philosophies:
Simple yet technically correct design
High-quality valuable materials
Fully handcrafted by expert engineers, made in the EU.
Now, nearly 30 years later, Pro-Ject still believe in those same core philosophies, so our latest X1 design can still be seen as a direct descendent of our original P1, like the 1 Xpression Carbon before it, though it’s improved on in every aspect thanks to modern materials and new production methods.
Structurally, the X1 is framed by its new large, heavier, dense MDF structure, far out-performing the cheaper, particle board or plastic chassis alternatives. Inside, it houses a sophisticated DC/AC generator board which, combined with the convenient speed control board, delivers clean and stable power to the quiet-running motor. For even further improved performance, the motor is decoupled from the main plinth using a new motor suspension system.
In the X1, the motor drives a new, heavy, non-resonant Acryl platter via a sub-platter drive system and a premium grade main bearing for liquid smooth rotation. This is the perfect platform on which to place your precious vinyl records, guaranteeing absolute reliability in its performance and sonic character.
The X1 is also better than its predecessors thanks to the super-stiff, perfectly tempered Carbon/Alu sandwich construction tonearm, inspired by our superior The Classic turntable. This new 8.6” tonearm design is incredibly light and stiff, with improved resistance to external interference. Finished as a one-piece, with no resonance-inducing headshell, the X1 can also be set for azimuth and VTA adjustment, for fine tuning by more advanced analogue audiophiles. The tonearm is then supplied with a TPE-damped counterweight, further reducing cartridge-tonearm resonances.
The X1 truly represents the epitome of Pro-Ject’s core philosophies. Due to our extensive experience and meticulous manufacturing processes, we put resources, time and effort into giving music lovers the best sound for their money, rather than cutting corners to save on costs. From our sophisticated motor drive system on to the specially selected cartridge, the audiophile tonearm set-up features, the purpose-designed feet, the hand-cut acrylic platter and beyond, X1 delivers a luxury level of audio and technical excellence that belies the mid-level price tag.
Say goodbye to unnecessary features, and hello to quality audio once again, with Pro-Ject X1.
Key Features:
•Speed control with electronic speed switch for ultimate speed stability
•Carefully isolated motor for less vibration and noise
•Sub-platter with extremely low 0.001mm bearing tolerances
•Stainless steel platter-bearing with soft brass bushing and teflon mirrors for lowest rumble and noise, and a stable, accurate speed transmission
•Resonance free, 1.5 kg heavy acryl platter
•8,6” carbon/aluminium sandwich tonearm with best internal damping and TPE damped counterweight
•Kardan ultra-low friction 4 pin point precision tonearm bearing
•Ortofon Pick it S2 MM cartridge newly developed with Ortofon for highly dynamic and full sound
•Massive and heavy, precision CNC‘d MDF chassis
•Luxury 8 layers of painting and hand-polished finish or real-wood, satin-waxed veneer
•Super shielded, semi-symmetrical, low-capacitance phono cables - purpose designed by Pro-Ject
•Height adjustable, aluminium feet for massively reduced risk of acoustical feedback
Handmade in Europe