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
- The Music Hall MMF 1.3 turntable comes equipped with an Audio-Technica AT3600L cartridge, a built-in phono stage, and an electronic 3-speed (33-1/3, 45, and 78 rpm) belt-drive motor
- Everything needed to get the Music Hall MMF 1.3 up and running is included, along with great instructions
- Accessible speed controls are a plus, as the control is on a dial right on top of the plinth
- It provides reasonable upgrade paths like upgrading the stylus, mat, or phono stage
- Adjustable vibration dampening feet help ensure the turntable is level and reduces vibration, enhancing playback
- Isolation from outside vibrations and interference was better than most inexpensive turntables
- Combined with the built-in phono stage and the Audio-Technica AT-3600L phono cartridge, it provided a very pleasant sound and an enjoyable listening experience
- The motor was very quiet from the listening area
Product Considerations
- The built-in phono stage is not fantastic, and the reviewer had to increase the volume on the stereo preamp to hear the vinyl
- There should be more finish options than just gloss black
- The platter is a little light
- When playing 78 rpm records, it was a pain having to change the record after only about 3 to 4 minutes of music
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- It looks comparable to the Goldring, but the reviewer likes the fact that it has four feet
- The tonearm was much easier to set up than the Goldring, including the anti-skating adjustment
- Changing the speed is much easier because you don't have to remove the platter
- There is also an annoying thump when turning off the Goldring turntable, which the Music Hall does not do
- It also has better isolation and is much more user friendly
- Both AR and Thorens are much better turntables
Takeaway: The Music Hall MMF-1.3 is an affordable turntable that is easy to set up and use, making it a great starting point for anyone looking to get into vinyl. Its upgradeable components mean it can grow with the user's evolving audiophile needs.
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
MMF-1.3
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
- Turntable Type: 3-speed full manual
- Motor: DC motor
- Drive: Belt Drive
- Turntable Platter: 296mm dia. aluminum die-cast
- Speeds: 33 1/3, 45, and 78rpm
- Wow and Flutter: Less than 0.15% WTD at 3KHz RMS
- Signal To Noise Ratio: more than 62dB
- Speed Tolerance: 3000Hz +/-1%
- Power Supply: DC12V,2.0A Universal PSU
- Power Consumption: 4W
- Tonearm Type: Dynamic balanced straight shaped w/soft damping control
- Effective arm length: 221.5mm
- Overhang: 19mm
- Offset angle: 25.61
- Tracking error angle: 3 degrees or less
- Dimensions: 17.1(W) x 14.5(D) x 4.2(H) in.
- Weight: 11lbs (5Kg)
- Cartridge Output voltage: 2.5mV +/- 3dB at 1KHz
- Channel separation: more than 18dB
- Channel balance: within 2dB at 1KHz
- Tracking force: 3.5 ± 0.5 g
Description
The Music Hall MMF-1.3 Turntable is the perfect choice for audiophiles looking for an affordable and high-quality turntable. With a built-in phono preamplifier and pre-mounted cartridge, you can start listening to your favorite records right out of the box. The simplified construction of the MMF-1.3 allows for unrivaled focus on the critical components, resulting in exceptional sound quality.
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:
- The brand's turntables frequently feature a dual-plinth design with Sorbothane hemispheres for vibration damping, enhancing sonic clarity by isolating the platter and tonearm.
- Music Hall offers models with built-in phono preamplifiers, providing flexibility for use with various audio systems and allowing for future upgrades with external phono stages.
- They are known for incorporating user-friendly features like adjustable VTA (Vertical Tracking Angle) which lets listeners optimize stylus alignment for different record thicknesses.
Select products
Select product comparisons
Music Hall US-1 Turntable:
- Positioning: An affordable, entry-level turntable designed for ease of use and basic vinyl playback.
- Description: Features an extremely quiet belt drive with a built-in phono amp that works well in small rooms and for personal listening. Compared to the higher-priced models, it offers fewer adjustable features and less vibration isolation, making it ideal for budget-conscious buyers with simple functionality needs.
MMF-2.3 Turntable:
- Positioning: A well-crafted manual turntable that balances quality performance with affordability.
- Description: Comes with a carbon fiber tonearm, vibration damping adjustable feet, and a low noise manual belt-drive system that enhances dynamic playback. In contrast to the entry-level US-1, it offers more refined component isolation and adjustability.
MMF-3.3 SE Walnut Turntable:
- Positioning: A premium turntable built to deliver enhanced sound quality for emerging audiophiles.
- Description: Uses dual-plinth technology, a carbon fiber tonearm, and electronic speed control to raise audio performance. Compared to the US-1 and MMF-2.3, it offers improved vibration damping and tracking precision.
MMF-9.3 Turntable:
- Positioning: A high-performance turntable engineered with advanced isolation and precise control for critical listening.
- Description: Features triple-plinth construction, a full carbon fiber tonearm with adjustable VTA, and a decoupled motor design that minimizes vibrations for accurate sound reproduction. When compared to the lower-priced models, its precise isolation and enhanced adjustability cater to users with larger setups and higher sonic goals.
MMF-11.3 SE Walnut Turntable:
- Positioning: The flagship turntable showcasing cutting-edge design and state-of-the-art technology for unrivaled audio fidelity.
- Description: Integrates a quadruple-plinth design, microprocessor-controlled electronic speed control, and a one-piece carbon fiber tonearm to deliver superior acoustic performance. In comparison to all other models in the lineup, its advanced isolation, comprehensive adjustability, and premium components justify its higher price for audiophiles targeting the ultimate listening experience in spacious setups.
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Avg. Product Price
$500
Used For Sale
39
Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
132
of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
25
Founding Year
1985
Our take on the brand
Music Hall's turntables feature a unique dual-plinth or triple-plinth construction that isolates critical sound components from the motor, enhancing clarity and reducing interference. The brand's HA25.3 headphone amplifier combines tube warmth with solid-state precision and doubles as a standalone tube pre-amp, offering versatility uncommon in similar products.
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
Music Hall
All of the Brand's Used Products
What if you spend more?
Music Hall
MMF-2.3
595
595
/
2
Reviews
Music Hall's turntables feature a unique dual-plinth or triple-plinth construction that isolates critical sound components from the motor, enhancing clarity and reducing interference. The brand's HA25.3 headphone amplifier combines tube warmth with solid-state precision and doubles as a standalone tube pre-amp, offering versatility uncommon in similar products.
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Our summary
Product Strengths
- Affordable mid-level turntable, suitable for upgrading from entry-level models
- Simple to use, it has a classic design with a universal look
- Good speed stability and quiet operation due to a DC synchronous motor insulated from the plinth
- Features three-point legs for stability and adjustable VTA
- Delivers a balanced and neutral sound with a well-defined midrange, treble, and strong bass, making it reliable for various musical genres
Product Considerations
- Included phono cables are not high quality and may need upgrading for better performance
- The included cartridge is not considered high-end
- Lacks internal damping, making it sensitive to vibrations
- Cue lever feels flimsy
- Changing the rotational speed requires disassembling the platter and moving the belt to another motor drive pulley
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Similar design style to Pro-Ject turntables
- Combines the lightness and openness of the Audio-Technica AT-LP5 with the musicality and refinement of the Rega Planar 2
Takeaway: The MMF-2.3 is a well-built, smooth-operating turntable that offers good value for its price and is suitable for those looking for a classic design with balanced sound. It is a great option to enjoy playing records.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Music Hall's turntables feature a unique dual-plinth or triple-plinth construction that isolates critical sound components from the motor, enhancing clarity and reducing interference. The brand's HA25.3 headphone amplifier combines tube warmth with solid-state precision and doubles as a standalone tube pre-amp, offering versatility uncommon in similar products.
Product Page
Product Page
Music Hall
MMF-2.3 SE
595
595
/
1
Reviews
Music Hall's turntables feature a unique dual-plinth or triple-plinth construction that isolates critical sound components from the motor, enhancing clarity and reducing interference. The brand's HA25.3 headphone amplifier combines tube warmth with solid-state precision and doubles as a standalone tube pre-amp, offering versatility uncommon in similar products.
Expand Details
Our summary
Product Strengths
- Classic design, solid construction, and quiet operation
- Balanced and neutral sound with a well-defined midrange, treble, and strong bass
- Three-point legs provide stability and adjustable VTA
- Motor is exceptionally quiet with good torque
- Good speed stability
- Audio output connectors are placed below the plinth, making connecting the cables inconvenient
Product Considerations
- Flimsy cue lever
- Lack of internal damping makes it sensitive to vibrations
- Included cartridge is not good
- Changing the rotational speed requires disassembling the platter and moving the belt to another motor drive pulley
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Combines the lightness and openness of the Audio-Technica AT-LP5 with the musicality and refinement of the Rega Planar 2
- Tonearm is quite similar to the Pro-Ject models
Takeaway: The Music Hall MMF-2.3 is a good-sounding and smooth-operating turntable that offers great value, especially if you want a turntable that can accept different cartridges. It is a dependable choice for various music styles and will likely be a visual plus in any living room.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Music Hall's turntables feature a unique dual-plinth or triple-plinth construction that isolates critical sound components from the motor, enhancing clarity and reducing interference. The brand's HA25.3 headphone amplifier combines tube warmth with solid-state precision and doubles as a standalone tube pre-amp, offering versatility uncommon in similar products.
Product Page
Product Page
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.
Expand Details
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
What competes at this price?
Music Hall
US-1
249
/
Released
2021
The US-1 turntable from Music Hall is the perfect choice for anyone who wants to enjoy the warm and rich sound of vinyl records. It's easy to set up and comes with everything you need to start playing your favorite albums in no time. This turntable has a sleek and stylish high gloss black finish, and comes with a built-in phono preamp, cartridge, dust cover, and all necessary cables and software. With a quiet belt drive and static balanced S-shaped tonearm, you can enjoy a smooth and stable performance with minimal noise and distortion. Whether you're a longtime vinyl enthusiast or just getting started, the US-1 turntable is a convenient, user-friendly, and affordable choice that will bring new life to your music collection.
Music Hall's turntables feature a unique dual-plinth or triple-plinth construction that isolates critical sound components from the motor, enhancing clarity and reducing interference. The brand's HA25.3 headphone amplifier combines tube warmth with solid-state precision and doubles as a standalone tube pre-amp, offering versatility uncommon in similar products.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- A counterbalance is included.
- Headshells can be swapped.
- It has a baseline entry-level Audio Technica 3600 cartridge.
- A functional piece with a nice design.
- Very easy setup.
Product Considerations
- Lightweight cheap construction.
- The middle of the speed control is not 33 and a third or 45 rpm.
- There isn't as much attention to the cartridge or stylus as there is to the overall design and function.
- The included cables should be upgraded.
Takeaway: The Music Hall US-1 has some pros, like a counterbalance, and it allows headshells to be swapped. It is a functional and nice-looking piece that is easy to set up, making it a good option for beginners.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Music Hall's turntables feature a unique dual-plinth or triple-plinth construction that isolates critical sound components from the motor, enhancing clarity and reducing interference. The brand's HA25.3 headphone amplifier combines tube warmth with solid-state precision and doubles as a standalone tube pre-amp, offering versatility uncommon in similar products.
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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