Pro-Ject 1-Xpression Carbon Classic vinyl turntable

The Pro-Ject X-pression vinyl turntable is an important part of the brand’s history. It is a direct follow-on from the models 1 and 1.2, now sold under the name ‘1 Anniversary’. It has undergone several upgrades over the years and as a result has taken several forms: The Xpression, the 1Xpression II and the 1Xpression III. Pro-Ject has now released the 4th variant of its top buy, which goes under the name 1-Xpression Carbon Classic !

Pro-Ject 1 Xpression Carbon Classic : Tonearm and phono cartridge

As the name suggests, it features a new 'full carbon' tonearm. The old one also used a carbon tube, which housed an aluminium headshell.

The new tonearm also features a new bearing that is very similar to that of the Pro-Ject 9CC Evo tonearm.

The counterweight also uses Evo tonearm technology, as it is fitted with internal TPE damping.

The 1Xpression Carbon Classic is fitted with the brand new and exclusive Ortofon 2M Silver cartridge. This cartridge was specially made for Pro-Ject by the Danish manufacturer.

Although it shares a stylus with the Ortofon 2M Red cartridge, the ‘engine’ uses coils with a silver conductor. This design ensures playback with incredible detail and better transparency.

You can also upgrade it at a later date by adding a 2M Blue Stylus.

Pro-Ject 1 Xpression Carbon Classic : Chassis and platter

The MDF plinth is available in either glossy black or white, or panelled (olive or mahogany). In our opinion, the latter provide the best results in terms of density and rigidity, as well as in terms of sound quality, although this is not hugely noticeable.

It also has a new 15 V DC synchronous motor. This is decoupled from the plinth by two TPE vibration isolation bushings.

Its belt drive system also powers a sub-platter which has a stainless steel bearing in a bronze bearing housing. Perfectly crafted with low tolerances.

With this ‘Classic’ model, Pro-ject is offering a streamlined version of its best-selling product. This beautiful platter is a single solid polished aluminium piece, with a TPE ring for superior damping. It has been made using the same manufacturing process and tolerances as the XTension.

It requires using a felt platter mat (supplied). But we think that replacing this with a leather or cork mat could produce better results.

The vinyl turntable sits on three aluminium cones damped with a ring of medium density rubber.

Pro-Ject 1 Xpression Carbon Classic : Accessories

This Pro-Ject 1 Xpression Carbon Classic turntable comes with good quality phono cables. These cables are not captive and can be replaced by higher quality models such as the Pro-Ject Connect IT CC cables.

This turntable is delivered with a transparent acrylic cover to protect it from dust (and pets!) but it is worth remembering that, like all high quality vinyl turntables, your music will sound best if the dust cover is left off or open.

Pro-Ject 1 Xpression Carbon Classic : Listening and test review

This Pro-Ject 1Xpression vinyl turntable is very simple to operate and - the icing on the cake - maPlatine.com ships it to you fully tested and set up!

Within minutes we were impressed by the sound quality: the definition is remarkable and present across the entire spectrum.

The frequency response is wide and very balanced, giving each register a fair treatment.

The dynamic range is spot on, and the reproduction is very physical. Its remarkable energy means there’s never a dull moment! But it still manages to remain very neutral and therefore very versatile.

It’s just as comfortable with opera and string quartets as it is with heavy metal!

The timbre quality is excellent - it’s easy to pick out the different instruments, and playback is very precise without a hint of harshness.

This new version of the 1Xpression Carbon Classic is an indisputable success. It has many excellent features (heavy platter, carbon fibre tonearm, 2M Silver cartridge, etc.) that make it a serious competitor for other turntables in its price range, such as certain British rivals...

Highly recommended.

IMPORTANT: PRODUCT INCOMPATIBLE WITH THE SPEED BOX S CONTROLLER