Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.
What reviewers think
Bloggers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below. Links to full reviews follow.
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.
What are hifi reviews useful for? (1) Identifying products you should demo in person at a dealer. (2) Learning which products reviewers unanimously praise as the best they've heard (this means they probably are legitimately great). (3) Identifying a product's attributes that satisfy your idiosyncratic needs and tastes. Beyond that, we often discount what reviewers say because they heap praise on most products—and are often apprehensive about publishing strong criticism or comparisons between products. Further, they seldom have more than a few products on-hand, often relying on their memories to compare past products. Always listen for yourself.
All
CS 418
reviews
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An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
Video Review
Manufacturer details
Features
Specifications
- Drive: Belt
- Speed settings: 33/45/78
- Wow & Flutter: < ±0.1% (DIN rated)
- Platter Material: Aluminium die-cast
- Platter Mat: Rubber 2.5mm
- Platter Diameter: 305mm
- Platter Weight (incl. Mat): 850g
- Tonearm Effective length: 221.5mm
- Tonearm Offset Angle: 25.6°
- Tonearm Overhang: 19mm
- Stylus Pressure Range: 0g to 4g
- Cartridge Weight Range: 5g to 9g
- Factory installed pickup: Ortofon 2M Red
- Plinth Material: MDF
- Surface finish: Vinyl veneer / Black
- Feet: Ø 62mm / Elastomer
- Dimensions (closed dustcover): 435 x 367 x 145mm
- Dimensions (open dustcover): D: 415mm / H: 400mm
- Weight: 5.8kg
Description
The turntable series starts with the CS 418, which integrates high-quality components from the larger models and already places the highest emphasis on precision. With the Ortofon 2M Red cartridge and switchable MM phono preamplifier, the CS 418 not only offers outstanding value for money, but also a very balanced sound.
The turntable series starts with the CS 418, which integrates high-quality components from the larger models and already places the highest emphasis on precision. With the Ortofon 2M Red cartridge and switchable MM phono preamplifier, the CS 418 not only offers outstanding value for money, but also a very balanced sound. Ease of use is guaranteed with the characteristic features of the CS series. The stepless antiskating can be easily adjusted using a rotary knob with a clear scale. The electronic adjustment of the three speeds is conveniently carried out via a rotary switch, while the appropriate pickup can be easily changed using the headshell.
Release Timeline
Manufacturer Site
Brand highlights
Taking a step back to look at reviewers' thoughts of the brand's entire lineup—not just this product—what stands out most is the following:
- Dual turntables are designed with user-friendliness in mind, ensuring easy setup and operation, even for those new to vinyl.
- The brand offers a range of models with automatic features, like auto-stop and tonearm lift, enhancing convenience and protecting records.
- Dual is committed to providing high-quality tonearm designs, often using twin-gimbal systems with ball bearings for precise tracking.
- Many Dual turntables incorporate a switchable onboard phono preamplifier, offering flexibility for connecting to various audio systems and providing a convenient all-in-one solution.
Select products
Select product comparisons
CS-329 (Automatik)
- Positioning: A basic automatik offering ease-of-use for straightforward setups.
- Description: Features standard automation functions and control suited for small room setups and modest budgets. Compared to higher-end models like the CS-429 and CS-529, its circuitry is simpler and has fewer adjustment options to meet basic functionality needs.
CS-418 (Manuell)
- Positioning: A simple manuell designed for affordability and clear manual control.
- Description: Provides a straightforward manual interface with solid audio performance for smaller spaces and users with limited budget flexibility. When compared to the automatik series and the more advanced CS-618q, it focuses on essential audio processing without additional technical enhancements.
CS-429 (Automatik)
- Positioning: A mid-range automatik that strikes a balance between basic operation and enhanced features.
- Description: Offers extra automation functions and improved circuit design that better suit medium-sized rooms. In contrast to the entry-level CS-329 and the premium CS-529, it presents a more refined control system with additional settings, serving as a practical middle ground.
CS-529 (Automatik)
- Positioning: A high-end automatik emphasizing advanced control and wider functionality.
- Description: Incorporates improved signal processing and refined automation features that support larger room applications and a higher tolerance for technical sophistication. Compared to the CS-329 and CS-429, its additional adjustments and more complex circuitry provide more versatile functionality.
CS-618q (Manuell)
- Positioning: A top-tier manuell that merges detailed manual precision with superior performance.
- Description: Offers novel manual control circuits and high-quality audio processing aimed at users with larger or acoustically demanding spaces. Relative to the simpler CS-418 and the automatik options, it provides extensive adjustment capabilities and robust performance.
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Avg. Product Price
$500
Used For Sale
20
Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
193
of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
6
Founding Year
1907
Our take on the brand
Founded in 1907, Dual pioneered the Dual-Motor system combining spring-loaded clockwork and electric motors, and today their high-quality turntables are still manufactured in Germany's Black Forest town of St. Georgen using traditional production lines. The brand maintains a unique structure with Dual Phono GmbH producing German-made turntables while Dual DGC GmbH focuses on more affordable Asian-made electronics, making their CS range of turntables particularly popular among audiophiles seeking quality at reasonable prices.
Look inside the brand
Brand Page
Our interview with the brand
What are two key technological innovations or strong opinions that differ you from other brands?
What's your approach to customer support?
What are your favorite tracks for showcasing the strength of your products?
What other products pair best with yours?
From our interview with
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Brand Page
Used
Dual
All of the Brand's Used Products
What if you spend more?
Pro-Ject
Debut EVO 2
699
699
/
14
Reviews
The Debut EVO 2 focuses on the core aspects that make a turntable sound great. Technically correct design – expert craftsmanship – handmade in the EU.This turntable is built to last you a lifetime! What's new? Special Platter TPE damped & anti -magnetic - The heavy aluminium platter uses a TPE ring inside to dampen unwanted resonances. NEW Debut Pro 6.238 Bearing Block The massive precise CNC milled alu tonearm bearing block absorbs all unwanted resonances coming from the cartridge. NEW Debut Pro Bearing Pick it MM EVO Lively and robust sound - The new Pick it MM EVO cartridge tops off the new Debut EVO 2. NEW Debut Pro Cartridge Graphic Counterweight We have added a TPE damping ring to the counterweight as on our high-end players.
Pro-Ject Audio Systems, an Austrian brand founded in 1991, has been at the forefront of reestablishing analog music reproduction to the public. The company handcrafts 95% of all components in the European Union. The turntables focus on manual operation and minimalist design with a wide selection of colors that make their turntables both audio devices and stylish furniture pieces. The brand stands out for offering one of the broadest ranges of high-fidelity products in the world, including turntables, CD players, DACs, streamers, phono preamps, amplifiers, and speakers. Pro-Ject products are engineered with a focus on best audio reproduction for the money and omission of costly, unnecessary features.
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Our summary
Product Strengths
- Delivers a lively and immediate sound that is exciting and engaging
- Offers a wide variety of color options and finishes to suit different tastes and home decors
- Includes electronic speed control for easy switching between 33⅓ and 45 RPM records
- Has a well-made and solid build quality that inspires confidence
- Has quiet operation with negligible motor noise
Product Considerations
- The power switch underneath the plinth is slightly fiddly
- There's no in-built VTA adjuster
- Might lack a certain refinement
- Finishes are sheen colors rather than gloss (preference)
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Rega Planar 2/Nd3, it counters with a beautifully fluid delivery and a particularly lovely and sweet-toned midrange
- Vs Rega Planar 3, it looks and feels like huge value, even when the price increase over the original Evo is taken into account
- Vs Pro-Ject Debut Carbon EVO, the new Debut Evo 2 improves on it in a number of ways—yet only costs a little more than its predecessor
Takeaway: The Pro-Ject Debut EVO 2 offers great sound and is easy to use, making it a fantastic way to enjoy vinyl records. With several color options and potential upgrades, it's a solid choice for anyone wanting a stylish and capable turntable.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Pro-Ject Audio Systems, an Austrian brand founded in 1991, has been at the forefront of reestablishing analog music reproduction to the public. The company handcrafts 95% of all components in the European Union. The turntables focus on manual operation and minimalist design with a wide selection of colors that make their turntables both audio devices and stylish furniture pieces. The brand stands out for offering one of the broadest ranges of high-fidelity products in the world, including turntables, CD players, DACs, streamers, phono preamps, amplifiers, and speakers. Pro-Ject products are engineered with a focus on best audio reproduction for the money and omission of costly, unnecessary features.
Product Page
Product Page
Cambridge Audio
ALVA ST
599
599
/
7
Reviews
Cambridge Audio pioneered the use of toroidal transformers in power amplifiers, a technology now widely adopted by high-end audio companies. The brand stands out for using premium amplification technology across their product range, from Class A/B amplifiers in their wireless earbuds to Hypex Ncore modules in their EVO series, while maintaining accessible price points between their CX and Edge product lines.
Expand Details
Our summary
Product Strengths
- Detachable headshell, defeatable preamp, and ability to disable the Bluetooth feature provide usability and upgradability
- Built-in phono preamp is based on the more expensive Duo and is dead quiet, providing great power filtering internally
- Has a sleek and contemporary look
- Good speed regulation system
- Can be easily upgraded with a better stylus tip when it's time for replacement
- Has Bluetooth aptX HD functionality
Product Considerations
- With the Audio-Technica cartridge, the soundstage was not as wide as a digital source
- An upgraded power supply did not make any audible difference in sound quality
- There is no azimuth or tone arm height adjustment
- The tonearm bearings could be better adjusted for less play
- Connecting the Alva ST using Bluetooth is like other units where there's no visual system to decide what to connect to
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Alva ST has a simpler moving magnet AT95E cartridge, a die-cast aluminum platter, and is belt-driven instead of direct drive, making it half the cost, compared to the Alva TT V2
- The Dual CS 618Q costs a little more than the Alva ST, has no Bluetooth, but does come with an Ortofon 2M Blue pickup and is fully automatic
- The Pro-Ject Debut PRO undercuts the Alva in price and spec, offers a similar minimalist design, and 78 rpm, but lacks Bluetooth and the overall heft
Takeaway: The Cambridge Audio Alva ST turntable is a well-built, flexible turntable that offers both classic analog connectivity and modern Bluetooth streaming. It is a great buy for those looking for a belt-driven table with a built-in preamp that can be upgraded later on.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Cambridge Audio pioneered the use of toroidal transformers in power amplifiers, a technology now widely adopted by high-end audio companies. The brand stands out for using premium amplification technology across their product range, from Class A/B amplifiers in their wireless earbuds to Hypex Ncore modules in their EVO series, while maintaining accessible price points between their CX and Edge product lines.
Product Page
Product Page
MoFi
StudioDeck+U
999
999
/
3
Reviews
MoFi Electronics is known for their turntables featuring unique engineering choices like chassis with constrained layer damping and 10-inch tonearms for superior sound quality. Their speakers use concentric driver designs that minimize cone displacement and enhance clarity, while their phono stages offer uncommon features like front-panel adjustability for gain and cartridge load.
Expand Details
Our summary
Product Strengths
- Solid build gives a sense of confidence when operating it
- Fantastic anti-vibration feet
- Digs down deep and cleanly, and doesn't struggle with low notes
- Presents a holographic image and a wide soundstage
Product Considerations
- The dust cover is a smoky color, obscuring the view of the turntable components
- The record clamp is essential and is not part of the standard package
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the Technics SL-1500C, the StudioDeck offers a weightier and more compelling sound
- Compared to the Rega P3 (2000) with the Nagaoka MP-110 MM Cartridge, the MoFi StudioDeck offered greater detail and clarity throughout the frequency range
Takeaway: The StudioDeck+U is a great turntable that offers a solid and detailed performance. It is easy to set up and use, making it a great choice for people looking to get started with vinyl or upgrade from a midrange player.
Video review
Our take on the brand
MoFi Electronics is known for their turntables featuring unique engineering choices like chassis with constrained layer damping and 10-inch tonearms for superior sound quality. Their speakers use concentric driver designs that minimize cone displacement and enhance clarity, while their phono stages offer uncommon features like front-panel adjustability for gain and cartridge load.
Product Page
Product Page
Argon Audio
TT-4
839
839
/
3
Reviews
Let’s get serious about analogue sound! Our TT-4 offers fantastic sound- and build quality packed in a stylish yet retro-inspired design that’s certain to bring the wow-factor to any hi-fi system. To ensure the best possible sound quality, TT-4 is built like a tank with a sturdy plinth and a heavy platter. However, don’t be fooled by its tough exterior: with the carbon fiber tonearm and the pre-fitted Ortofon 2M Red pickup, TT-4 brings plenty of sophistication to the table as well. The built-in phono amplifier means you can use TT-4 with any amplifier or active speaker you want.
Argon Audio is a Scandinavian hifi brand that combines elegant aesthetics with advanced acoustic technologies, including their unique Anisotropic Torsion Stabiliser system for turntables and powerful compact speakers that deliver deep bass. Their products, from the versatile TT-4 turntable to the SOLO streaming box, stand out for delivering performance that exceeds expectations at their price points, particularly in terms of precision and dynamic range.
Expand Details
Our summary
Product Strengths
- Solid and heavy MDF plinth
- 'Smooth, dynamic, and plentiful in the bottom end' sound with a mid-range that doesn't present resonance or colorations
- High-end features like a carbon fiber arm and the possibility to adjust the VTA
- Built-in phono amplifier for MM cartridges that works really well
- Aluminum platter doesn't present any play on the spindle, and is very stable
Product Considerations
- The knob to switch between 33 and 45 rpm is too close to the cartridge, so care is needed when operating
- The TT-4 was slightly faster
- The manuals of the TT-4 do not mention speed adjustment or the possibility to adjust the VTA
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Pro-Ject Debut Pro: The Argon's way of presenting music is similar
- Vs Technics SL-1500C: The Argon turntable sounds fuller, and the bass is more prominent
Takeaway: The TT-4 is well-built, easy to use, and can be connected to anything from a small table speaker to a larger stereo system. With its balanced and clean tones, the TT-4 is suitable with many music genres.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Argon Audio is a Scandinavian hifi brand that combines elegant aesthetics with advanced acoustic technologies, including their unique Anisotropic Torsion Stabiliser system for turntables and powerful compact speakers that deliver deep bass. Their products, from the versatile TT-4 turntable to the SOLO streaming box, stand out for delivering performance that exceeds expectations at their price points, particularly in terms of precision and dynamic range.
Product Page
Product Page
What competes at this price?
Dual
CS 329
382
/
Released
2022
The Dual CS 329: Simplicity with sophistication for the perfect introduction to analogue music playback. With Plug & Play you get a pre-assembled complete package - plug it in and get started straight away! The fully automatic CS 329 offers convenient convenience as the tonearm swivels, lowers and raises automatically. Simply place the record on top and press the start button.
Founded in 1907, Dual pioneered the Dual-Motor system combining spring-loaded clockwork and electric motors, and today their high-quality turntables are still manufactured in Germany's Black Forest town of St. Georgen using traditional production lines. The brand maintains a unique structure with Dual Phono GmbH producing German-made turntables while Dual DGC GmbH focuses on more affordable Asian-made electronics, making their CS range of turntables particularly popular among audiophiles seeking quality at reasonable prices.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Makes listening to vinyl simple, with fully automatic operation: put the record on, press start, and the player does the rest, lifting the arm when finished and returning to its rest position
- Setup is simplified with preset tracking and anti-skate forces
- Built-in phono preamp is a good addition
- Delivers music in subtly different and inherently pleasant ways
- Well-constructed and reliable-looking unit that mechanically delivers the goods
- Connectivity options exist
Product Considerations
- The arm lacks a lock to ensure it can't move from rest, which is a drawback
- Platter does ring when tapped, which is not desirable, but the rubber mat will help ameliorate this
- Sibilant "s" sounds can be emphasized
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the APT Holman, the Dual's inboard phono stage sounded a mite muffled, but it was certainly more than acceptable
- Compared to the Dual CS 5000 and Ortofon 2M Red, the AT91 has a darker sound and Ms. Carnes's voice wasn't quite as prominent
Takeaway: The Dual CS 329 is an easy-to-use turntable with automatic features, making it simple to enjoy records from start to finish. It is a well-rounded product that delivers music in an enjoyable way.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Founded in 1907, Dual pioneered the Dual-Motor system combining spring-loaded clockwork and electric motors, and today their high-quality turntables are still manufactured in Germany's Black Forest town of St. Georgen using traditional production lines. The brand maintains a unique structure with Dual Phono GmbH producing German-made turntables while Dual DGC GmbH focuses on more affordable Asian-made electronics, making their CS range of turntables particularly popular among audiophiles seeking quality at reasonable prices.
Product Page
Product Page
Pro-Ject
Automat A1
419
/
Released
2022
The A1 introduces our completely new Automat Line. We have always had one purpose since our establishment in 1991: bring HiFi Stereo music enjoyment to as many people as possible. We are very happy to expand our product catalog with a fully automatic entry-level turntable and create new opportunities for future vinyl beginners and enthusiasts. The A1 is handmade in Germany by a traditional manufacture with a wealth of experience in making automatic turntables. Even the individual components are 98% made and produced in Germany.
Pro-Ject Audio Systems, an Austrian brand founded in 1991, has been at the forefront of reestablishing analog music reproduction to the public. The company handcrafts 95% of all components in the European Union. The turntables focus on manual operation and minimalist design with a wide selection of colors that make their turntables both audio devices and stylish furniture pieces. The brand stands out for offering one of the broadest ranges of high-fidelity products in the world, including turntables, CD players, DACs, streamers, phono preamps, amplifiers, and speakers. Pro-Ject products are engineered with a focus on best audio reproduction for the money and omission of costly, unnecessary features.
Expand Details
Our Summary
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.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Pro-Ject Audio Systems, an Austrian brand founded in 1991, has been at the forefront of reestablishing analog music reproduction to the public. The company handcrafts 95% of all components in the European Union. The turntables focus on manual operation and minimalist design with a wide selection of colors that make their turntables both audio devices and stylish furniture pieces. The brand stands out for offering one of the broadest ranges of high-fidelity products in the world, including turntables, CD players, DACs, streamers, phono preamps, amplifiers, and speakers. Pro-Ject products are engineered with a focus on best audio reproduction for the money and omission of costly, unnecessary features.
Product Page
Product Page
Pro-Ject
E1 Phono
359
/
Released
2022
E1 from Pro-Ject Audio Systems is aiming to deliver a great sound experience on a limited budget, hand made in Europe. It doesn't matter if you are a beginner, returnee or experienced vinyl fan. Our Plug & Play design with pre-adjusted tracking force and anti skating by our experienced technicians in the factory provides you the best settings for your turntable.
Pro-Ject Audio Systems, an Austrian brand founded in 1991, has been at the forefront of reestablishing analog music reproduction to the public. The company handcrafts 95% of all components in the European Union. The turntables focus on manual operation and minimalist design with a wide selection of colors that make their turntables both audio devices and stylish furniture pieces. The brand stands out for offering one of the broadest ranges of high-fidelity products in the world, including turntables, CD players, DACs, streamers, phono preamps, amplifiers, and speakers. Pro-Ject products are engineered with a focus on best audio reproduction for the money and omission of costly, unnecessary features.
Expand Details
Our Summary
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
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
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
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.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Pro-Ject Audio Systems, an Austrian brand founded in 1991, has been at the forefront of reestablishing analog music reproduction to the public. The company handcrafts 95% of all components in the European Union. The turntables focus on manual operation and minimalist design with a wide selection of colors that make their turntables both audio devices and stylish furniture pieces. The brand stands out for offering one of the broadest ranges of high-fidelity products in the world, including turntables, CD players, DACs, streamers, phono preamps, amplifiers, and speakers. Pro-Ject products are engineered with a focus on best audio reproduction for the money and omission of costly, unnecessary features.
Product Page
Product Page
Pro-Ject
E1
329
/
Released
2022
E1 from Pro-Ject Audio Systems is aiming to deliver a great sound experience on a limited budget, hand made in Europe. It doesn't matter if you are a beginner, returnee or experienced vinyl fan. Our Plug & Play design with pre-adjusted tracking force and anti skating by our experienced technicians in the factory provides you the best settings for your turntable.
Pro-Ject Audio Systems, an Austrian brand founded in 1991, has been at the forefront of reestablishing analog music reproduction to the public. The company handcrafts 95% of all components in the European Union. The turntables focus on manual operation and minimalist design with a wide selection of colors that make their turntables both audio devices and stylish furniture pieces. The brand stands out for offering one of the broadest ranges of high-fidelity products in the world, including turntables, CD players, DACs, streamers, phono preamps, amplifiers, and speakers. Pro-Ject products are engineered with a focus on best audio reproduction for the money and omission of costly, unnecessary features.
Expand Details
Our Summary
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.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Pro-Ject Audio Systems, an Austrian brand founded in 1991, has been at the forefront of reestablishing analog music reproduction to the public. The company handcrafts 95% of all components in the European Union. The turntables focus on manual operation and minimalist design with a wide selection of colors that make their turntables both audio devices and stylish furniture pieces. The brand stands out for offering one of the broadest ranges of high-fidelity products in the world, including turntables, CD players, DACs, streamers, phono preamps, amplifiers, and speakers. Pro-Ject products are engineered with a focus on best audio reproduction for the money and omission of costly, unnecessary features.
Product Page
Product Page
Pro-Ject
E1 BT
449
/
Released
2022
E1 from Pro-Ject Audio Systems is aiming to deliver a great sound experience on a limited budget, hand made in Europe. It doesn't matter if you are a beginner, returnee or experienced vinyl fan. Our Plug & Play design with pre-adjusted tracking force and anti skating by our experienced technicians in the factory provides you the best settings for your turntable.
Pro-Ject Audio Systems, an Austrian brand founded in 1991, has been at the forefront of reestablishing analog music reproduction to the public. The company handcrafts 95% of all components in the European Union. The turntables focus on manual operation and minimalist design with a wide selection of colors that make their turntables both audio devices and stylish furniture pieces. The brand stands out for offering one of the broadest ranges of high-fidelity products in the world, including turntables, CD players, DACs, streamers, phono preamps, amplifiers, and speakers. Pro-Ject products are engineered with a focus on best audio reproduction for the money and omission of costly, unnecessary features.
Expand Details
Our Summary
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.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Pro-Ject Audio Systems, an Austrian brand founded in 1991, has been at the forefront of reestablishing analog music reproduction to the public. The company handcrafts 95% of all components in the European Union. The turntables focus on manual operation and minimalist design with a wide selection of colors that make their turntables both audio devices and stylish furniture pieces. The brand stands out for offering one of the broadest ranges of high-fidelity products in the world, including turntables, CD players, DACs, streamers, phono preamps, amplifiers, and speakers. Pro-Ject products are engineered with a focus on best audio reproduction for the money and omission of costly, unnecessary features.
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