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
- Open and detailed sound quality
- Sophisticated and minimalist design
- Quality components, such as an aluminum tonearm and Ortofon OM10 cartridge
- Relatively simple setup
- Plinth free of switches for a cleaner look
Product Considerations
- Build isn't rock solid
- Changing speeds requires manual belt adjustment, which some users might find inconvenient
- The standard model does not include a built-in phono pre-amp
- Included manual could be better, with clearer images
- Anti-skate system can be fiddly to set up
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Rega times better and delivers fuller-bodied sound
- Soundstage is not as wide as the Fluance RT85
Takeaway: The Pro-Ject Essential III is a good-looking turntable that delivers great sound for the price, making it a worthwhile upgrade from basic record players. It focuses on sound quality and offers optional upgrades for those who want even more from their vinyl experience.
All
Essential III
reviews
Manufacturer details
Speed 33, 45 (manual speed change)
Principle Belt drive
Speed variance 33: 0.70% 45: 0.60%
Wow & flutter 33: 0.21% 45: 0.19%
Platter 300 mm acrylic & felt mat
Main bearing Stainless steel
Tonearm 8.6”, aluminium
Effective arm length 218.5 mm
Effective tonearmmass 8.0 g
Overhang 22.0 mm
Counterweight for mass 3 - 5.5 g
Tracking force range 0 - 25 mN (recommended OM10 18 mN)
Included accessories Power supply, dust cover
Power consumption 4.5 Watts max
Dimensions 488 x 235 x 393mm (WxHxD)
Weight 7.0 kg net
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:
- Pro-Ject offers a range of turntables and components that focus on simple setup and ease of use, often arriving pre-configured, making them particularly appealing to beginners.
- They prioritize sonic performance, often incorporating higher-end components like carbon fiber tonearms and Ortofon cartridges, even in their more affordable models.
- Pro-Ject is known for its all-in-one audio systems that combine a turntable, amplifier, and receiver into a single unit, aiming to provide component-like sound quality in a smaller, more convenient package.
Select products
A2
- Positioning: The entry-level, fully automatic turntable designed for ease of use and convenience.
- Description: Offers a fully automatic operation with a sub-chassis design that isolates the tonearm and platter from vibrations, making it ideal for small spaces where speakers are close to the turntable. Unlike the more manual and high-end models like the Signature series, focuses on user-friendly features and affordability, making it suitable for those with a limited budget who still want quality sound.
The Classic Reference
- Positioning: Positioned as a mid-range turntable, combines traditional design with modern technology.
- Description: Features a high-end EVO 9 AS HG tonearm and a precision motor control system, providing excellent sound quality with a touch of luxury. It offers more advanced features compared to the A2, such as a balanced XLR output.
RPM 10 Carbon
- Positioning: A high-end turntable known for its innovative design and superior sound quality.
- Description: With its carbon fiber chassis and 10" Evo tonearm, delivers exceptional sound clarity and stability. It stands out from the Classic Reference with its advanced materials and design.
Signature 10
- Positioning: A premium turntable that combines mass-loading with magnetically-floating principles for high-end audio performance.
- Description: Features a 10" single-pivot tonearm and a magnetically decoupled platter, providing a resonance-free listening experience. It offers more precise adjustments and a higher level of performance compared to the RPM 10 Carbon.
Signature 12.2
- Positioning: The flagship model, representing the pinnacle of Pro-Ject's turntable lineup.
- Description: Boasts a groundbreaking 12" 3-point pivot tonearm and a flywheel belt drive system, ensuring the most accurate and stable playback. It surpasses the Signature 10 with its larger tonearm and enhanced stability.
Our take on the brand
Look inside the brand
Our interview with the brand
What are two key technological innovations or strong opinions that differ you from other brands?
Pro-Ject Audio Systems was founded with a passion for analog audio reproduction. Our very first product, introduced in 1991, was a record player – a time when the entire industry was turning its back on vinyl. We didn’t jump on the bandwagon when vinyl became hip – we were instrumental in bringing vinyl back.
We manufacture – not only assemble – 95% of our products in the EU. Raw materials come in – finished products leave the factories. Since we make everything ourselves, we are able offer a 25 year spare part availability!
Today, we offer one of the broadest ranges of high-fidelity products in the world, including turntables, CD players, DACs, streamers, phono preamps, amplifiers, speakers, and a variety of accessories designed to enhance your system and vinyl care.
What's your approach to customer support?
Pro-Ject Audio Systems has a worldwide network of dealers and distributors. We ensure that our team members are highly knowledgeable in the field of high-fidelity audio setup and repairs. In the event of a need for support, the first point of contact is the local dealer. If the dealer cannot handle the problem, the second tier is the distributor in the respective country. By handling as many problems as possible locally, we can ensure the quickest and smoothest resolution.
What are your favorite tracks for showcasing the strength of your products?
Aside from one of the audio industry’s widest range of high-fidelity products, Pro-Ject also produces limited runs of high-quality vinyl records. 7Ray’s Jazzy Zoetrope is a double album of fine Jazz standards played by 7Ray and his quartet. One of the two records was recorded live at our headquarters in the Weinviertel region of Lower Austria. We produced the whole album in AAA for the highest analog purity. Here’s a link to the records we offer, which double as fine reference recordings across multiple musical genres.
What other products pair best with yours?
Used
Pro-Ject
What if you spend more?
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.
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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
T2: A New Modern MarvelThe T2 sensibly enhances our critically acclaimed T1 formula, introducing many new audiophile features, setting new standards in its new price-range. Sumiko Rainier MM cartridge This cartridge skillfully places instruments & vocals right where they belong - hand-crafted in Japan! Anti-Skating Spring-based The T2 comes with a brand new adjustable spring-based anti-skating mechanism that optimizes its performance Made In Europe Commited to longevity & sustainability Made in Europe by a turntable factory with decades of experience!
Our summary
Product Strengths
- Resonance mitigation is a key focus, with a solid plinth and thick glass platter to minimize vibrations
- The tonearm tested 'perfectly' and performs at a level expected on more expensive units
- The T2 Superphono has a well-designed built-in phono stage that is comparable to Pro-Ject's entry-level phono stage, the Box S2
- The T2 comes with high-quality E-Series RCA cables, not flimsy generic cables
- The T2 Super Phono comes with a pre-aligned Sumiko Rainier cartridge
Product Considerations
- The T2 W's phono stage cannot be disengaged, so the turntable shouldn't be connected to the phono input of the amplifying component
- The T2 Super Phono table's lack of absolute separation of singers and instrumentalists was consistently evident
- When streaming from the T2 W simultaneously to multiple devices, the streams were out of sync by a second or more
- The feet on the T2 W are not height-adjustable, so the turntable must rest on a level surface
- The T2 W does not stream lossless audio to all UPnP devices
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The T2 Superphono's built-in phono stage was surprisingly similar to the Pro-Ject 2 Box S2, with the Tube S2 being a little warmer
- The Cambridge Audio Alva TT V2 was more incisive and provided greater insight into Jarrett's playing, low notes were thuddier and less authoritative on the T2 W, and everything was a little more blurred
- The T2 has a thicker glass platter, longer and more rigid tonearm, spring-based anti-skating compensation, and electronic speed control
- The Pro-Ject Debut Line is a higher-level series than the T Line, therefore, it had more bite and texture
Takeaway: The T2 is a turntable with a focus on reducing unwanted vibrations and resonances, which makes it a worthwhile upgrade for those seeking better vinyl playback quality. With its tonearm and included cartridge, the T2 provides great value.
Video review
Our take on the brand
T2 Super Phono: The New ChallengerThe T2 Super Phono sensibly enhances our critically acclaimed T1 formula, introducing many new audiophile features, setting new standards in its new price-range.x Phono Stage High-Quality MM phono preamp We wanted a truly stunning phono stage to match and give the T2 Super Phono unrivalled longevity and audio performance. The T2 Super Phono debuts a brand new dual-stage split-passive phono preamp design for that reason! T2 Super Phono 1 Sumiko Rainier MM cartridge This cartridge skillfully places instruments & vocals right where they belong - hand-crafted in Japan! T2 W 7 Anti-Skating Spring-based The T2 Super Phono comes with a brand new adjustable spring-based anti-skating mechanism that optimizes its performance T2 W 5 Made In Europe Commited to longevity & sustainability Made in Europe by a turntable factory with decades of experience!
Our summary
Product Strengths
- Focuses on resonance mitigation, using a solid plinth, thick glass platter, and vibration absorption feet
- Features a 9-inch aluminum tonearm that performs exceptionally well—testing 'perfectly' on horizontal forces and static friction
- Includes a Sumiko Rainier cartridge that is a 'perfect pairing' with the tonearm
- Equipped with a built-in phono stage with a dual-stage split passive design comparable to Pro-Ject's 2 Box S2 phono stage
- Comes with high-quality E-Series RCA cables
Product Considerations
- Lacks ultimate detail, separation, soundstaging, and tonal proficiency of more expensive turntable/cartridge combinations
- Soundstage could be small at times, and the lack of absolute separation of singers and instrumentalists was consistently evident
- There is no way to adjust VTA or azimuth
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the Pro-Ject 2 Box S2 phono stage, the built-in phono stage was surprisingly similar, though the Tube S2 was a little warmer
- Compared to the Music Hall Classic, Rega Planar 2, Rega Planar 1, and the Music Hall MMF 1.5, the T2 Super Phono provides much to consider and experience
- The T2 Super Phono is said to have a Rega-esque tonearm design
- While a Thorens TD 124 turntable/Korf tonearm/Ortofon SPU GE MkII cartridge setup offered a larger soundstage and greater sonic authority, the T2 Super Phono delivered the music with equal rhythmic drive and musicality
Takeaway: The Pro-Ject T2 Super Phono is an entry-level audiophile turntable that offers solid performance and a focus on resonance mitigation. It is a 'super bargain' that delivers an engaging and musical experience.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Top-grade turntable with 9" EVO tonearm & cartridge
„A splendid time is guaranteed for all" – 2Xperience SB Sergeant Pepper Limited Edition!
This high-end 2Xperience SB Seargant Pepper Limited Edition is number three of a total of six collectors special edition turntables, that represent the cooperation between Pro-Ject Audio Systems and Universal Music Group/The Beatles. For the 50th anniversary of the extraordinary record "Sergeant Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band", a total of 1000 pieces of this exceptional record player will be produced.
A belt-drive turntable with precision motor control (electronic speed change) and a highend 9cc Evolution carbon fiber tonearm means playback quality is outstanding The heavy chassis is made from MDF using a non-resonant construction technique. The turntable platter is built with heavy, non-resonant materials in a precisely balanced sandwich configuration. A vinyl layer acts as the perfect turntable mat. A screwable and light-weight record clamp eliminates unwanted record vibration and rumbling of the main platter bearing. The audio performance of the final product benefits from the resonance-free platter, avoiding the ringing effect of common metal and glass platters. The 2Xperience SB is not only equipped with a highend tonearm, but comes with a pre-fitted Ortofon 2M Silver magnetic cartridge that makes use of silver voice coils. An acrylic dust cover is also included.
For all fans of the Beatles who want to hear their beloved records of the Fab Four in an audiophile way! A real collector's dream.
Our summary
Product Strengths
- Rich tone with full-bodied midrange
- Bold sense of large-scale dynamics
- High-end build quality with audiophile-grade 9-inch CC Evolution carbon fiber tonearm
- The 2M Silver is a definite step-up from the 2M Red that comes with a lot of other entry-level turntables
- Electronic speed control offers both 33.3/45 rpm without moving the belt on the pulley
Product Considerations
- Could be more precise and expressive
- To earn a fifth star, the 2Xperience SB needs more detail, rhythmic discipline and a better gauge of subtle dynamics
- Triangular, pointed feet are pretty sharp and can scratch an underlying surface fairly easily
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared with the Clearaudio Concept though, it doesn't quite show off the character of the instruments as well through the more subtle sonic shifts
Takeaway: The Pro-Ject 2Xperience SB is a turntable with great musicality and a warm, dense tone that's likely to please many listeners, especially those who value a luscious midrange. It could be the perfect centerpiece of a setup.
Video review
Our take on the brand
What competes at this price?
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
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
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
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
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Good basic turntable and is fully manual, which reduces potential mechanical issues
- Electronic speed control to switch between 33 and 45 RPM with a simple switch
- Uses a one-piece aluminum tonearm and comes with the Ortofon OM10 moving magnet phono cartridge, which is pre-mounted and aligned
- CNC-machined plinth designed to minimize resonance, along with specially designed feet to keep external vibrations away
- Heavy 8mm thick glass platter and bearing assembly machined within .001mm tolerances
Product Considerations
- Feet are not adjustable, which can make leveling a bit more difficult
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Pro-Ject Debut EVO: The Debut EVO has more sophisticated speed control
- Vs Pro-Ject Debut EVO: The Debut EVO has better damped and height-adjustable feet, a plinth with more mass, and a better-isolated motor
- Vs Pro-Ject Debut EVO: The Debut EVO has a one-piece carbon fiber tonearm with better bearings compared to the aluminum tonearm
- Vs Pro-Ject Debut EVO: The Debut EVO does not have a built-in phono preamp option
Takeaway: The T1 EVO is a great turntable for those looking for a better vinyl experience while ensuring their records are well taken care of. It offers good value and performance for its price, making it an excellent choice for upgrading from a less expensive model.
Video review
Our take on the brand
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