Pro-Ject Debut Carbon DC vinyl turntable

Note: The black model has been replaced by the Debut Carbon 2M Red New Release vinyl turntable.

The Pro-Ject Debut III vinyl turntable has enjoyed and continues to enjoy enormous success unprecedented for a home turntable. Ever the perfectionist, its Austrian manufacturer has now released an upgraded version of their 'best buy' model. The DEBUT III Color design was used as a basis for the new Pro-Ject Debut Carbon vinyl turntable, which has several significant improvements. For example, its new motor suspension system uses Sorbothane mounts. It reduces vibration in the turntable and rumble, hence improving the signal-to-noise ratio. The motor also features a new bearing with stainless steel spindle. The speed can be changed between 33 and 45 rpm easily by lifting the platter and moving the drive belt. But the biggest change has been to the tonearm. The original 8.6" one-piece aluminium tonearm has been replaced by a new and exclusive 8.6" one-piece carbon tonearm weighing only 6 g! This significantly increases rigidity and provides much improved tonal neutrality and precision. It is worth noting that the tonearm cables are not captive and so the standard cables can easily be replaced by higher quality models, such as Pro-Ject's “Connect It” range. The platter and felt mat have been resized from 280 mm to 300 mm, which significantly increases weight and stability.

Pro-Ject come in seven different high-gloss colours ranging from black to white and including red and green, amongst others. With its revamped design, this vinyl turntable is compatible with a wide selection of cartridges, though it comes with the famous elliptical Ortofon OM10 cartridge. Its performance can be significantly developed and enhanced by adding a leather platter mat (Leather It), an acrylic platter (Acryl It), or a higher performing cartridge.

The sonic performance is amazingly precise and punchy. Reduced noise allows the listener to focus on the music and the details. Its sound stage seems wider and more precise than its competitors. It is not completely on the same level as its older sister the Pro-Ject 1XPRESSION vinyl turntable, but it comes pretty close. Its highly competitive price makes it the best deal around and we are confident that this will continue long into the future. Another job well done by Pro-Ject! Great job!

CAUTION: Speed Box I and II are not compatible with the following DC motors: Debut Carbon, Debut Carbon Esprit, Debut Carbon USB.

AWARDS:

EISA Award - Best Product 2012/2013

What HiFi - Best turntable under 350£

Video demonstration of how to set up any Debut Carbon model: click here