Pro-Ject T1 Phono SB Turntable Review + Setup Guide
Pro-Ject T1 Phono SB Turntable: An Expert Review
Welcome to this comprehensive review of the Pro-Ject T1 Phono SB Turntable, a product that has been meticulously designed for those who value high-quality sound and a stylish aesthetic. This turntable is more than just a device to play your favourite vinyl records; it’s a statement piece that adds a touch of elegance to your living space. With its sleek design and high-quality components, the T1 Phono SB Turntable is a testament to Pro-Ject’s commitment to delivering top-notch audio equipment that doesn’t compromise style or performance.
This review delves into the intricate details of the product’s design, quality, key features, and functionality. We aim to provide a thorough analysis to help you understand what sets the T1 Phono SB Turntable apart from its competitors. We’ll also compare it with similar products in the market to give you a broader perspective on its standing in the world of turntables. Additionally, we’ll discuss its pros and cons, providing a balanced view that will help you make an informed decision. Lastly, we’ll share valuable tips and tricks for getting the most out of your turntable, ensuring you enjoy every spin of your favourite records.
Product Specifications
| Brand | Maximum rotational speed | Included components | Material | Item weight | Style | Colour | Motor type | Power source |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pro-Ject Audio Systems | 33, 45 RPM (electronic speed change) | Turntable, dustcover, feltmat, cable attached to record player | Plastic | 3.8 kg net | Contemporary | Walnut | Belt-drive | Built-in Power Supply: 230V 50Hz (US: 110V 60Hz) |
Additional Specifications:
- Belt drive with Speed variance 33: 0.7% 45: 0.6%
- Wow & Flutter 33: 0.25% 45: 0.23%
- Platter: Heavy 8mm, blasted-glass platter with felt mat
- Main bearing: Stainless steel/brass
- Signal to noise: 65dB
- Tonearm: 8.6” aluminium
- Effective arm length: 218.5 mm
- Counterweight for mass: 5 – 10g (pre-mounted)
- Outputs: RCA Phono/Line (switchable)
- Power consumption: 3 Watt max
- Dimensions: 415x100x335 mm (WxHxD)
Design and Quality
The T1 from Pro-Ject Audio Systems marks a significant milestone as the inaugural model in the T-Line series of turntables. This product is designed to deliver true high-fidelity sound, even while adhering to a limited budget. This commitment to quality sound is a testament to Pro-Ject Audio Systems’ dedication to creating products that meet the needs of audiophiles without breaking the bank. The T1 is a testament that high-quality sound doesn’t always have to come with a hefty price tag.
One of the standout features of the T1 is its use of premium materials. Despite its affordability, there’s no skimping on quality. The turntable boasts a stylish aesthetic that will appeal to those with a keen eye for design. The contemporary walnut finish and its sleek, modern design make it a stunning addition to any home audio setup. High-quality materials also extend to the internal components, ensuring durability and long-lasting performance.
The sound quality of the T1 is rich and lively, resulting from an extensive development process prioritizing sound performance above all else. Pro-Ject Audio Systems made no compromises in this area, ensuring that the T1 delivers a listening experience that is truly immersive and satisfying. The company’s commitment to sound quality is evident in every aspect of the T1, from its precision belt-drive system to its built-in switchable phono stage. The result is a turntable that offers an affordable entry point into high-fidelity sound without sacrificing quality or performance.
Key Features
The Pro-Ject T1 Phono SB Turntable boasts several impressive features:
- Precision belt drive with accurately regulated speed stability and electronic 33/45 RPM speed change
- Built-in switchable phono stage – no external phono preamp required
- Heavy 8mm, zero-resonance blasted-glass platter
- Precision CNC‘d heavy full chassis: NO hollow spaces, NO plastic
- 8,6“ highly precise and light aluminium tonearm with Ortofon OM5e moving magnet pickup
In-Depth Analysis
The T1 is supplied with an Ortofon OM 5E Moving Magnet cartridge featuring an elliptical diamond stylus tip; this is a true hi-fi playback system with no corners cut. The T1 Phono SB features a built-in speed control for automatic switching between 33 and 45 RPM, and a switchable Moving Magnet phono stage, so you can connect directly to a LINE-level input or still use an external phono stage.
Comparison with Similar Products
The Phono SB version of the T1 model from Pro-Ject Audio Systems offers several enhancements over the base model, making it a standout choice in its price range among turntables. One of the most notable upgrades includes a built-in, Pro-Ject designed, high-quality phono MM stage. This feature eliminates the need for an external phono preamp, simplifying the setup process and reducing clutter. The built-in phono stage also ensures optimal sound quality, specifically designed to work seamlessly with the rest of the turntable’s components.
Another significant feature of the Phono SB version is the electronic speed switch between 33 and 45 RPM. This allows easy switching between record speeds, adding to the turntable’s versatility. This feature, combined with the built-in phono stage, gives the Phono SB version an edge over other turntables in its price range. To illustrate this point, let’s compare the T1 Phono SB with three similar turntables:
| Turntable | Built-in Phono Stage | Electronic Speed Switch | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pro-Ject T1 Phono SB | Yes | Yes | £379 |
| Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB | No | Yes | £258 |
| Denon DP-300F | No | No | £299 |
| Sony PS-LX310BT | No | Yes | £229 |
As you can see, while the other turntables may offer some similar features, none provide the combination of a built-in phono stage and an electronic speed switch at a comparable price point to the Pro-Ject T1 Phono SB. This makes the T1 Phono SB a unique and compelling choice for those seeking high-quality sound and convenience on a budget.
Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- High-quality Ortofon OM 5E MM cartridge
- Built-in Phono Preamp and Electronic Speed Change
- One-piece tonearm design with integrated headshell and low friction, vibration-free bearings
Cons:
- Made of plastic, which may not be as durable as other materials
Tips and Tricks
To get the most out of your Pro-Ject T1 Phono SB Turntable, consider the following tips:
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Use the Included Felt Mat: The turntable comes with a felt mat. Always use this when playing records to protect them from scratches and to ensure optimal sound quality.
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Take Advantage of the Built-In Phono Preamp: The T1 Phono SB features a built-in phono preamp. This means connecting the turntable directly to a LINE-level input eliminates the need for an external phono stage. This can simplify your setup and reduce clutter.
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Utilize the Electronic Speed Change: The turntable features an electronic speed change between 33 and 45 RPM. This allows for easy switching between different record speeds, adding to the turntable’s versatility.
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Consider Upgrading the Cartridge: The T1 has an Ortofon OM5e moving magnet pickup. However, to further enhance your listening experience, consider upgrading to a higher-end Ortofon cartridge, such as the Ortofon 2M Blue.
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Regular Cleaning: Clean your turntable and records to maintain optimal sound quality. Use a carbon fiber brush to clean your records before and after each play. Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe away dust and fingerprints for the turntable.
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Proper Placement: Place your turntable on a level, stable surface away from speakers or other vibration sources. This will help prevent skipping and improve sound quality.
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Handle with Care: Always handle the tonearm gently to avoid damaging the stylus. When placing the stylus on a record, use the cueing lever instead of your hand to lower it gently onto the record.
Top Reviews from the United Kingdom
| Reviewer | Rating | Date | Colour | Review |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Neil Price-Brown | 5.0 out of 5 stars | 18 June 2023 | White | My first turntable, and I love it. I wanted a great turntable that wasn’t as expensive or cheap as many things. You get what you pay for… although not always. I’m very happy to report this record player is great for first record players, and also, as a long-time record player, you can upgrade the cartridge but only to Ortofon cartridges. I’m thinking of upgrading to Ortofon 3m blue later. Great sound, Great looks, great valve. If you’re serious about sound, get a turntable like this. |
| CameronRoss | 3.0 out of 5 stars | 17 June 2022 | White | This is a good turntable that performs well. The quality control from Pro-Ject was dire, however. The box arrived sealed and undamaged. The turntable casing, when I unpacked it, had grubby marks and small indentations, some of which broke the surface. Everything was sealed, so this must have happened at the factory. I went for this turntable because it came pre-adjusted. The weight moved as soon as I picked up the balance from the box. It had not been tightened adequately in the factory. This meant I had to do the tone arm settings, which I had wanted to avoid. The turntable performs well when you get past all this, but I will think carefully about buying another Pro-Ject product given these problems. |
| Sophie | 5.0 out of 5 stars | 3 June 2022 | White | I brought this as my first vinyl player, and after doing months of research, I bit the bullet and brought it. I’ve honestly never looked back. It’s easy to set up out of the box, looks sleek, and feels well-made, sturdy, and durable. It comes with a blasted glass platter which I prefer to acrylic. The tonearm is feather-light, and it’s just effortless to use, and this also comes with the Ortofon OM 5E cartridge; I’ve paired the T1 with a pair of Kanto yu4 speakers, and it sounds great. It’s a bit of a shame that this model doesn’t have the auto-stop function, but for me personally, I didn’t think that it matters. |
Customers Questions & Answers
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Does the turntable come with cables to connect straight to Sonos 5?
Yes, the Pro-Ject T1 Phono SB Turntable has supplied cables for direct connection to a Sonos 5. (Answered by Solly on 13 December 2020) -
What speakers are compatible with this turntable?
The turntable is compatible with a range of speakers. Some inexpensive options include the Wharfedale Diamond and Dali Spektor1 or Spektor 2. Please note that you will need an amplifier to connect the speakers. (Answered by Thomas ian winton on 18 November 2020) -
Can I add anti-skate?
The anti-skate force is preset on the Pro-Ject T1 Phono SB Turntable. The turntable tracks fine with the supplied Ortofon. (Answered by Thomas ian winton on 17 October 2020) -
What is the depth of the player when the lid is open and hinged back?
With the lid open to 90 degrees, the depth of the Pro-Ject T1 Phono SB Turntable is 39.5cm/ 15.5 inches. (Answered by JonG on 20 July 2020)
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Pro-Ject T1 Phono SB Turntable is a remarkable audio equipment that balances affordability, quality, and performance. Its high-quality sound, ease of use, and stylish design make it an excellent choice for newcomers to the vinyl scene and seasoned audiophiles. The turntable’s built-in phono preamp and electronic speed change are standout features that set it apart from other models in its price range. These features and the high-quality Ortofon OM5e moving magnet pickup ensure a superior listening experience.
However, it’s important to note that while the T1 Phono SB is made of plastic, this does not detract from its performance or durability. Its construction is solid and robust, designed to deliver reliable performance over time. The turntable’s sleek, contemporary design makes it a stylish addition to any home audio setup. So, whether you’re just starting your vinyl journey or looking to upgrade your current setup, the Pro-Ject T1 Phono SB Turntable is a worthwhile investment that promises to enhance your music listening experience.
Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.