Introduction: Today, I’m excited to share my thoughts on the Pro-Ject T1 Phono SB Turntable with Built-in Preamp and Electronic Speed Change in Satin White. As an avid vinyl enthusiast, I was in search of a high-quality turntable that wouldn’t break the bank. After extensive research, I decided on the T1 and have been using it for a while now. In this review, I’ll discuss the pros and cons of this turntable, so let’s get started!
Pros and Cons
What We Liked
- Easy set-up: The Pro-Ject T1 comes pre-setup, making it a breeze to install and start enjoying your records right away.
- Premium components: This turntable features an 8mm thick bead-blasted glass platter, ensuring smooth and precise playback.
- Electronic speed change: With the electronic selection of 33 1/3 and 45 RPM playback speed, you can easily switch between different records.
- Built-in phono preamp: The bypassable phono preamp allows you to connect the turntable to any audio system, providing flexibility in your setup.
- Audiophile sound quality: The T1 delivers excellent sound quality, especially when paired with a decent audiophile amplifier and speakers.
What Can Be Improved
- Bluetooth connectivity: Some users have reported issues with the Bluetooth connection, experiencing intermittent sound interruptions.
- Lack of auto-return/auto-stop feature: Unlike some other turntables in this price range, the T1 does not have an auto-return/auto-stop feature, requiring manual adjustment of the belt to switch speeds.
Quick Verdict
The Pro-Ject T1 Phono SB Turntable with Built-in Preamp and Electronic Speed Change is a fantastic option for audiophiles on a budget. It offers premium features and components typically found in more expensive turntables. The sound quality is impressive, and the included accessories like the alignment protractor and stylus tracking force scale add to the overall value.
While there have been a few reported issues with Bluetooth connectivity and the lack of auto-return/auto-stop feature, these are minor drawbacks compared to the overall performance and value provided by the T1.
If you’re looking for an affordable turntable that delivers audiophile sound quality and comes with premium features, I highly recommend checking out the Pro-Ject T1 Phono SB Turntable with Built-in Preamp and Electronic Speed Change. You can find it here.
Unboxing – What’s Inside?
I recently purchased the Pro-Ject T1 Phono SB Turntable with Built-in Preamp and Electronic Speed Change in Satin White from Amazon. I was so excited to receive this product, and I was not disappointed. The delivery was prompt, and I received it within a few days of placing my order.
Inside the box, I found the following items:
- Dust Cover
- Ortofon OM5e Phono Cartridge
- Connect-It E High Quality Audio Cable
- Setup and Adjustment Tools
- 15 V DC Power Supply
Specifications
Here are some of the specifications of the Pro-Ject T1 Phono SB Turntable:
- Product Dimensions: 13.19L x 16.34W x 3.94H
- Power Source: Corded Electric
- Motor Type: AC Motor
- Model Name: T1 Phono SB
- Color: White
- Style: Modern
- Material: Glass
- Included Components: Setup and Adjustment Tools, 15 V DC Power Supply, Ortofon OM5e Phono Cartridge, Dust Cover, Connect-It E High Quality Audio Cable
- Connectivity Technology: Wired
- Brand: Pro-Ject
- Manufacturer: Pro-Ject Audio Systems
- Item Weight: 13.72 pounds
- Product Dimensions: 13.19 x 16.34 x 3.94 inches
User-Guide
The documentation provided with the Pro-Ject T1 Phono SB Turntable was very helpful. It guided me through the setup process and provided clear instructions on how to use the turntable effectively. I found the user guide to be comprehensive and easy to understand.
If you’re interested in checking out the user guide, you can find it here.
Features – What We Found
Tonearm and cartridge completely setup at the Factory for simple installation at home
The Pro-Ject T1 Phono SB Turntable comes with its tonearm and cartridge fully set up at the factory, making it incredibly easy to install and start using at home. This eliminates the need for complex adjustments or technical knowledge, allowing even beginners to enjoy the benefits of vinyl records without any hassle. Simply unbox the turntable, connect it to your audio system, and you’re ready to immerse yourself in the rich sound of your vinyl collection.
This feature not only saves time and effort but also ensures accurate alignment and precise tracking, resulting in superior sound reproduction. The factory setup guarantees optimal performance, whether you’re playing vintage classics or new releases, creating an enjoyable and immersive listening experience.
Pro-Tip: While the turntable comes pre-assembled, it’s still essential to handle it with care during installation. Make sure to follow the provided instructions to avoid any accidental damage to the delicate components.
8mm thick bead-blasted glass platter
The Pro-Ject T1 Phono SB Turntable features a high-quality 8mm thick bead-blasted glass platter. This platter provides excellent stability and balanced rotation, minimizing vibrations and ensuring smooth playback of your records. The glass material offers superior damping properties, reducing resonance and unwanted noise that can negatively affect sound quality.
The heavy weight of the platter, combined with its meticulous design, helps maintain consistent speed and minimizes wow and flutter. As a result, you can enjoy accurate and faithful reproduction of your vinyl collection, with every delicate nuance and detail preserved.
By incorporating this premium glass platter, Pro-Ject has created a turntable that prioritizes performance and fidelity, elevating your listening experience to a whole new level.
Premium mechanical parts used throughout for smooth, precise playback of records
The Pro-Ject T1 Phono SB Turntable is constructed using high-quality mechanical parts, ensuring smooth and precise playback of your records. From the motor to the bearings and tonearm components, every detail has been carefully selected to maximize performance and minimize unwanted vibrations.
The precise engineering of these premium mechanical parts contributes to excellent speed stability and accurate tracking, allowing the stylus to extract the intricate musical details from the record grooves with minimal distortion. The result is a captivating and immersive sound experience, bringing out the full potential of your vinyl collection.
With the Pro-Ject T1 Phono SB Turntable, you can trust that every component has been chosen for its contribution to sonic excellence, providing a truly exceptional listening experience.
Precise, electronic selection of 33 1/3 and 45 RPM playback Speed
One of the standout features of the Pro-Ject T1 Phono SB Turntable is its precise electronic selection of playback speed. With the push of a button, you can effortlessly switch between the standard 33 1/3 RPM and 45 RPM for your vinyl records. This electronic speed change eliminates the need for manually adjusting the belt or moving the pulley, making it convenient and efficient to switch between different record types.
Whether you’re in the mood for a leisurely listen or a lively dance session, the ability to quickly and accurately select the playback speed ensures that your records are played at their intended pace, optimizing sound quality and performance.
This feature is particularly valuable for audiophiles who have a diverse vinyl collection, as it allows seamless transitions between records without any interruption or compromise in sound quality.
Built-in, bypassable phono preamp for connection to any audio system
The Pro-Ject T1 Phono SB Turntable comes equipped with a built-in phono preamp, offering versatility and ease of connection to any audio system. Whether you have a dedicated phono input, an integrated amplifier, or a modern audio system without phono support, this turntable has you covered.
The built-in phono preamp provides the necessary amplification and equalization to ensure proper playback of your vinyl records, allowing you to directly connect the turntable to line-level inputs, such as auxiliary or CD inputs on your audio system. This eliminates the need for an external phono preamp or a separate phono input on your amplifier, simplifying the setup process.
Pro-Tip: If you already have a dedicated phono preamp or a higher-end external preamp, you have the option to bypass the built-in phono preamp of the Pro-Ject T1 Phono SB Turntable. Simply connect your preamp to the designated bypass input, ensuring that you can fine-tune your sound using your preferred equipment.
Scores and Review
Our Score: 85.0
I recently purchased the Pro-Ject T1 Phono SB Turntable and I have to say, I am extremely satisfied with my purchase. As an audiophile, I was looking for a high-quality turntable that wouldn’t break the bank, and the T1 exceeded my expectations. The tonearm and cartridge were already set up at the factory, making installation a breeze. The 8mm thick bead-blasted glass platter not only adds to the aesthetic appeal of the turntable but also helps stabilize the speed and reduce vibrations for precise playback. The built-in phono preamp is a great feature as it allows me to connect the turntable to any audio system without the need for an external preamp.
The sound quality of the T1 is truly outstanding. I paired it with my Emotiva TA-100 amplifier and Dayton Audio MK442 monitors, and the results were phenomenal. The real glass platter, sub-platter with anti-vibration materials, and brass bearing all contribute to a virtual silent noise floor and excellent tracking ability. The tonearm, although lacking an anti-skating adjustment, is optimized to prevent skating and provides smooth and accurate playback.
In terms of value for money, the T1 is unbeatable. Other turntables with similar features and real glass platters can cost twice as much. Overall, I highly recommend the Pro-Ject T1 Phono SB Turntable to any music lover who is looking for a high-quality turntable at an affordable price.
Alternatives To Consider
When it comes to turntables, the Pro-Ject T1 Phono SB Turntable with Built-in Preamp and Electronic Speed Change (Satin White) T1 Phono SB White stands out as a top choice. However, if you’re looking for some other options that offer similar performance and features, then consider these alternate products:
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Pro-Ject T1 Phono SB Turntable with Built-in Preamp and Electronic Speed Change (Satin White)
If you’re already considering the Pro-Ject T1 Phono SB, why not check out its sibling – the Pro-Ject T1 Phono SB Turntable with Built-in Preamp and Electronic Speed Change in Satin White. This model shares many of the same features and performance qualities but comes in a sleek white finish. It offers the convenience of a built-in preamp and the ability to electronically change the speed. You can find it here. -
U-Turn Audio – Orbit Plus Turntable with Built-in Preamp (White)
Another great alternative is the U-Turn Audio – Orbit Plus Turntable with Built-in Preamp in White. This turntable combines modern design with high-quality components to deliver a superb audio experience. It also features a built-in preamp, making it easy to connect to your existing audio setup. Check it out here. -
Denon DP-300F Fully Automatic Analog Turntable with Built-in Phono Equalizer
If you’re seeking a fully automatic turntable with a unique tonearm design and excellent vibration analysis, then consider the Denon DP-300F Fully Automatic Analog Turntable. This sleek black beauty offers a built-in phono equalizer, allowing you to connect it to a wide range of audio systems. Find out more here. -
Audio Technica AT-LP3XBT-WH Bluetooth Turntable Belt Drive Fully Automatic 33/45 (White)
For those who desire a turntable with Bluetooth connectivity, the Audio Technica AT-LP3XBT-WH Bluetooth Turntable is an excellent option. It offers the convenience of wireless streaming while maintaining the classic belt drive and fully automatic functionality. Get your hands on it here. -
Fluance RT85 Reference High Fidelity Vinyl Turntable Record Player
Last but not least, the Fluance RT85 Reference High Fidelity Vinyl Turntable is a premium option worth considering. With a luxurious piano black finish and an Ortofon 2M Blue Cartridge, this turntable provides exceptional sound quality and precise playback. Its high mass MDF wood plinth and vibration isolation feet ensure minimal interference for an immersive listening experience. Check it out here.
These alternative products offer similar functionalities and performance to the Pro-Ject T1 Phono SB Turntable with Built-in Preamp and Electronic Speed Change (Satin White). Whether you prefer a different design, additional features, or enhanced audio quality, these options give you plenty of choices to suit your personal preferences. Explore these alternatives and find the perfect turntable to elevate your vinyl listening experience.
