Pro-Ject Launches Budget Turntable With Minimal Features and Maximum Sound Quality

Affordable Pro-Ject turntable offers pure sound without Bluetooth or USB, perfect for vinyl lovers seeking simplicity and quality.

Introducing the Pro-Ject E1.2: A Minimalist Marvel for Vinyl Enthusiasts

Pro-Ject, renowned for crafting some of the best turntables on the market, has unveiled a fresh, budget-friendly model designed specifically for those who want serious sound without the frills. Priced at just £249 (around $310) or €329 (approximately $360), the Pro-Ject E1.2 turntable is an impressive bargain for a quality vinyl player. However, it comes with a catch: you’ll need to supply your own phono stage or amplifier with a phono input, which might be a bit challenging for beginners and arguably strips away some convenience.

The E1.2 boldly skips extras like Bluetooth, USB connectivity, automatic modes, or built-in phono preamps. Instead, it focuses on fundamental components shared with Pro-Ject’s pricier models, promising excellent sound for the price.

Pro-Ject E1.2 Key Features

The E1.2 is an updated version of the well-liked Pro-Ject E1 turntable. One of the standout upgrades is its platter, crafted from die-cast aluminum weighing 730 grams. It includes an integrated damping ring made from thermoplastic elastomer, which Pro-Ject claims enhances rotational stability and vibration resistance.

The platter is paired with a sub-platter borrowed from the Pro-Ject Debut turntable, made of fiberglass-reinforced ABS plastic to improve speed control and reduce resonance.

The tonearm includes a hefty gimbal bearing for smooth movement. Included is a carbon fiber tonearm and the Pick It MM E cartridge, a lightweight model featuring a conical diamond stylus and a miniature neodymium magnet. This cartridge is factory pre-adjusted, delivering precise tracking, smooth tonal balance, and less distortion.

Additional touches include a one-button speed selector for 33 and 45 RPM, vibration-damping feet, and Oxygen-Free Copper (OFC) cables with gold-plated connectors.

The plinth is constructed from a solid block of rigid composite fiber, CNC-machined for precision, and offered in three finishes: glossy black, matte white, or walnut.

Minimalist Design: A Blessing or a Challenge?

The Pro-Ject E1.2 hits stores this July 2025. Its price-to-performance ratio is alluring, but the lack of a built-in phono preamp might deter some newcomers to vinyl. While ditching digital features such as Bluetooth and USB was necessary to keep costs low, the absence of a phono stage means you'll need to be a bit tech-savvy or invest in additional equipment.

However, for those returning to vinyl or seeking a second turntable for another room, the E1.2 could hit the sweet spot. If you need a player with a phono preamp included, Pro-Ject offers many options, including the Pro-Ject E1 Phono turntable.

Currently, no release information is available for the U.S. or Australia, but the UK market will see it this month.

Pro-Ject E1.2 is a budget turntable that any audiophile can proudly add to their setup.

Why Choose Pro-Ject E1.2?

• Affordable price point for serious vinyl playback
• Minimalist design focusing on sound quality
• High-quality materials like aluminum platter with damping ring
• Lightweight, precise cartridge preinstalled
• Sleek finishes to match your interior style

What’s Missing?

• No Bluetooth or USB connectivity
• No built-in phono preamp (requires external equipment)
• No automatic functions

FAQs About the Pro-Ject E1.2 Turntable

• Does the E1.2 come with a built-in phono preamp?
  No, this model requires an external phono preamp or amplifier with a phono input.
• Can I connect the E1.2 directly to powered speakers?
  Only if the powered speakers have a built-in phono stage; otherwise, you’ll need a phono preamp.
• What are the available finishes for the E1.2?
  It comes in glossy black, matte white, and walnut finishes.
• Is the cartridge pre-installed or do I need to set it up?
  The Pick It MM E cartridge comes factory pre-installed and pre-adjusted.
• Is the Pro-Ject E1.2 suitable for beginners?
  It’s better suited for users comfortable setting up external equipment due to the lack of a built-in phono stage.

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