Pro-Ject X1 turntable

The Pro-Ject X1 turntable is the entry-level model in the new "X" line from the Austrian manufacturer Pro-Ject. It replaces the 1-Xpression series which has been successful for about ten years!

PRO-JECT X1: CHASSIS

Even if it is brand new product, we recognize all the DNA of the X series in this Pro-Ject X1. The general dimensions remain the same, even if the plinth is thicker and cut in heavier MDF, denser and stronger.

MDF costs 2 to 3 times more than standard particle board.

The lacquered finish is obtained by applying 8 coats of hand-polished paint.

The whole of the turntable is based on new stands composed of an aluminium/sorbothane sandwich. In addition, they are adjustable in height.

PRO-JECT X1: MOTOR AND DRIVE

The drive of the Pro-Ject X1 is managed by a synchronous motor with a belt. This leads to a sub-platter associated with an acrylic platter. This platter is thicker and heavier than the previous versions.

The motor has a new suspension that offers a better isolation from vibrations for the tonearm and the chassis.

Speed control and speed change are electronically controlled with a new board. This one generates a powerful and very stable sinusoidal alternating current.

PRO-JECT X1: TONEARM AND CARTRIDGE

We find the Pro-Ject 8.6 CC Evo tonearm made of carbon, but in a new version. Even if you cannot see it from the outside, it is designed on the basis of an aluminium and carbon sandwich.

This new process, which had been set up on the RMP 3 Carbon turntable, allows a better damping and a more important effective mass (10g). This makes the tonearm less sensitive to the low compliances of some MC cartridges.

The counterweight has also been improved by the injection of a TPE damper. This tonearm offers a VTA and azimuth setting, in addition to the tracking force and the anti-skating.

This X1 turntable is equipped as standard with the new Pro-Ject Pick It S2 MM cartridge, designed in collaboration with Ortofon.

PRO-JECT X1: PHONO CABLE

Note that all Pro-Ject turntables, even the entry level ones, are delivered with a “true” phono cable, unlike several competitive turntables.

The Connect It E is a low capacity phono cable, equipped with a shielding better than standard interconnect cables.

The signal of a MM cartridge, and even more of a MC cartridge, is of a very fragile nature.

“Low cost” RCA cables do not offer the best conditions possible to transmit a correct phono signal completely and without deterioration.

PRO-JECT X1: TEST AND LISTENING

From the first notes, we are surprised the transparency and detail levels offered by this X1.

The restitution is clear, but we cannot say that it is surgical because it offers matter and a beautiful depth.

Its personality seems more neutral than colored, as for some of its competitors.

The tempo is well marked and offers an excellent “swing” on Jazz, Blues and Rock music. The timbres are rich and nice.

The Pro-Ject X1 knows not to overdo it. It is not the more exuberant one, but it is certainly one of the most realistic in this range. This characteristic allows it to be relatively versatile regarding to different kind of music.

The sound scene is coherent and perfectly places instruments, both in depth and width.

As you can see, this Pro-Ject X1 turntable is not equipped with fancy features. Its design is strictly manual and its biases are due to decision fully dedicated to sound restitution quality.

In addition, its finish and its “look” do not spoil anything and make it a desirable object. In the future, it also allows several upgrades: phono cartridge, phono cable...

A success with an excellent price/quality ratio. Recommended!

AWARDS:

EISA - Best product - 2019/2020