Project Audio A1.2 automatic turntable
Pro-ject Audio Systems has unveiled the A1.2, its latest fully-automatic turntable, making experiencing premium vinyl performance more accessible and easier than ever. Retaining the core design principles of the original A1, the A1.2 refines its performance with a series of carefully considered upgrades.
The new die-cast aluminium platter is at the heart of these improvements, replacing the A1’s stamped version. Pro-ject has also introduced a CNC machining process to ensure precise, consistent production and reduce resonance. The new deck’s 8.3” ultra-light aluminium tonearm now features a redesigned headshell made from carbon fibre-reinforced polymer. This construction enhances stability while keeping weight to a minimum—a key factor in automatic turntable design. The maker pairs the tonearm with a pre-adjusted Pro-ject Pick it MM E cartridge for peak performance straight from the get-go.
The thoughtful engineering extends to the A1.2’s fully mechanical operation, eliminating motors or electrical components on the tonearm. By eschewing these potential sources of interference, unwanted resonance is avoided, and once a record is playing, the mechanics disengage entirely, preserving playback quality.
Like its predecessor, the A1.2 is handmade in the same German factory renowned for its expertise in automatic turntables, while final assembly takes place in the Czech Republic by technicians with decades-long experience in this production stage. The result is a super-reliable, high-performance product at an accessible price.
Elsewhere, with its resonance-damped wooden chassis, silicon-damped feet, and premium semi-symmetrical Connect it E phono cables, the A1.2 continues Pro-ject’s tradition of delivering outstanding performance from an automatic design. And set up is super simple. For starters, the tracking force and anti-skating are factory-adjusted. The A1.2 also comes with a cartridge that has already been factory-aligned and is ready for playback.
Simply set the A1.2’s integrated phono preamp to on or off by lifting the mat and adjusting the switch. Place a record on the turntable and set the speed to 33 or 45 RPM. Remove the stylus protection cover, move the lift lever to the ‘needle on the record’ icon, and press start/stop. The platter will begin spinning, and the tonearm will move to the correct position before gently lowering onto the record. Once the record finishes, the tonearm will automatically return to its resting position.
With its impactful revisions and user-friendly design, the A1.2 delivers great performance straight out of the box. Available in black and white finishes (white is new for the UK), the Pro-ject A1.2 launches in the UK this April, priced at £469.00 (SRP). Henley Audio distributes Pro-ject in the UK and Ireland. (The euro price is €499.00.)