Product Strengths

• Very easy setup and operation, almost plug-and-play
• Fully automatic operation makes it easy to use, with the tonearm lifting and returning to its resting position automatically
• Has a built-in, defeatable phono preamp, allowing connection to a wider range of audio systems
• Good build quality for its price range, with components like the damped aluminum platter
• Delivers decent and enjoyable sound quality, capturing the essence of vinyl playback

Product Considerations

• Limited upgradability due to the fixed counterweight and non-removable headshell
• The built-in phono preamp, while functional, is not the best
• The automatic mechanism is not ideal for 12' 45rpm records and requires manual intervention
• Some find the location of the phono stage switch (under the platter) inconvenient

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

• Vs Fluance RT82: The Automat A1 has full automatic function, the RT82 has semi-automatic
• Vs Pro-Ject Debut Evo: The Evo is a better turntable in all aspects, but the Automat A1 is a fully automatic turntable
• Vs Dual CS 622: The Dual's sound was crisp, detailed, dynamic, and compelling, while the Pro-Ject did reveal one detail

Takeaway: The Automat A1 is a user-friendly turntable that offers convenient automatic operation and decent sound quality right out of the box, perfect for vinyl newcomers. It simplifies the listening experience while still providing an enjoyable introduction to the world of records.

Product Strengths

• Exceptionally simple to set up, a 'plug and play' experience that allows for immediate use
• Offers a warm and detailed sound
• Features an electronic speed switch with three positions (45, off, and 33), making speed changes easy
• Comes with a pre-mounted Ortofon OM 5E cartridge known for its neutral sound
• Built-in phono preamp sounds better than expected for an integrated phono preamp in a turntable

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Product Considerations

• The platter is made from ABS polymer, which some reviewers feel makes it look cheaper than it is
• It's very lightweight, which can cause it to move when operating the speed switch or lifting the dust cover, and it may be vulnerable to vibrations
• No automation features—manual lift of the tonearm is required
• Sound needs some EQing

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Comparisons (according to reviewers)

• Vs U-Turn, the E1 has a two-speed variable motor switch, while the U-Turn requires manually moving the belt to change speeds
• Vs Fluance RT-82, the Fluance RT-82 is a different style and has a heavier plinth and removable headshell
• Vs Yamaha AS 801, the E1's integrated phono preamp sounds better than the phono preamp inside the Yamaha AS 801
• Vs Dual CS 5000/Sumiko Oyster Moonstone, the reviewer slightly preferred the E1 Phono for some tracks
• Vs Audio-Technica AT-LP120X-USB, the Pro-Ject E1 sounds better

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Takeaway: The Pro-Ject E1 is a great entry-level turntable that is easy to set up and delivers engaging vinyl playback, making it perfect for anyone starting their vinyl journey. With multiple models available, one can pick the best one for a given set-up, whether that's the base model, a phono pre-amp or Bluetooth connectivity.

Product Strengths

• Simple to set up, just plug in, and start playing
• Involving sonic performance with a warm and detailed sound
• Electronic speed switch makes changing speeds handy
• Good price-to-performance ratio

Product Considerations

• Very lightweight, making it vulnerable to vibrations, so care should be taken
• Molded plastic platter does not feel as high quality as a solid acrylic or metal platter
• Some reviewers found the glossy black finish attracts fingerprints and dust easily
• Does not have an auto-stop function
• Has no automation and is fully manual operation

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

• Project E1 has a two-speed variable motor that you just switch, whereas the U-Turn requires moving around belts to change speeds
• The E1 is similarly priced to the Fluance RT82, but the Fluance RT82 has auto stop and a heavier plinth
• E1 offers huge difference in transparency compared to the Audio-Technica AT-LP60, even though it was bassier
• The E1's gloss finish adds a touch of class compared to the Pro-Ject Primary E, and it has a switchable speed motor making it feel more luxurious
• The Pro-Ject T1 SB has an acrylic platter and machined wood plinth, whereas the E1 has molded ABS polymer (plastic) platter and a CNC-machined composite fiber plinth
• The E1 is better sounding than the Audio-Technica AT-LP120X-USB, but the AT-LP120X-USB has more features, such as Bluetooth and USB connectivity

Takeaway: The Project E1 is a fuss-free and easy-to-set-up turntable that provides a great and involving sound experience for those new to vinyl. It is a stylish and upgradable turntable that offers a big, clear sound for the money.

Product Strengths

• Pre-aligned and pre-balanced, so setup is easy
• Available in multiple configurations and comes in three different colors
• The built-in phono preamp in some models can sound better—more dynamic and richer—than integrated preamps in amplifiers
• Electronic speed control means there's no need to move the belt to change speeds
• The sound quality is warm, high note details come through crisply, and the mid register and bass also harness details

Product Considerations

• The plastic platter and dust cover may not appeal to all users aesthetically
• Some reviewers found the turntable to be light and potentially unstable, requiring care to avoid knocking it over
• There's no anti-skate feature and limited adjustability—azimuth and VTA—for advanced tweaking
• Some models have had Bluetooth functionality issues
• Bass may be muddy or overpowering on some recordings

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

• Vs U-Turn, the Pro-Ject E1 has a two-speed variable motor, while the U-Turn requires moving the belt to change speeds
• Vs Fluance RT-82, the Fluance has auto stop and a removable headshell, which the E1 lacks
• Vs Rega Planar 1 Plus, the E1 BT gets a bonus point for its electronic speed control—unlike the Rega, there's no need to take the platter off to move the belt
• Vs Audio-Technica AT-LP60, the E1 offers better transparency and overall components
• Vs higher end turntables, the E1 is entry level with little adjustment

Takeaway: The Pro-Ject E1 is a user-friendly turntable that is easy to set up for those getting into vinyl. It offers good sound quality and has features such as a built-in phono preamp and Bluetooth connectivity in certain models to fit different needs.

Product Strengths

• Clean, precise, and detailed presentation delivers a balanced and musical sound
• Exceptional build quality with solid MDF construction and elegant black vinyl veneer
• Included premium Ortofon 2M Red cartridge provides excellent sound quality for the price
• Built-in switchable phono preamp makes it compatible with a wider range of audio systems
• Simple setup and operation makes it easy to use for beginners

Product Considerations

• Lift/lower arm lever does not feel as precise as the rest of the arm design
• Built-in phono stage, while useful, is considered good, but not great
• Manual operation might require getting used to for beginners
• Careful placement is needed on a rigid, level, and low resonance support to achieve optimal performance

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

• Compared to Rega and Pro-Ject, the Dual CS 418 is a strong alternative to established class leaders, potentially reclaiming Dual's past dominance
• It reminds the reviewer of the Reloop Turn 3 in terms of sound, likely because both use the Ortofon 2M Red cartridge

Takeaway: The Dual CS 418 is a well-made turntable that delivers balanced sound and good value, making it a great choice for getting into vinyl or upgrading from a basic setup. It is easy to set up and use, so one can start enjoying records right away.