Before you buy any hi-fi gear, it’s important to assess what you need the audio accessory for. Do you want it for the aesthetic value on offer and the nostalgic appeal it holds, or do you desire it for the high-quality sound and the sublime experience? This distinction will not only help you refine your buying choice but also make you fall in love with any hi-fi gear like a turntable. From the aesthetic charm to the supreme sound it offers, a turntable pulls you into music like no other. What makes me interested in turntables again is the recent release by Austrian-based audio manufacturer, Pro-Ject Audio Systems. The company has announced the A1.2 turntable that promises to automate your listening experience.
Building on the success of its predecessor, the A1, this updated model introduces several key upgrades that make it a standout choice for vinyl enthusiasts. The main USP of the Automat A1.2 is its fully automatic operation. With the press of a button, the tonearm lifts, moves to the start of the record, and gently lowers itself onto the vinyl. It is to be noted that there is no manual cueing required. Once the record finishes, the tonearm automatically returns to its resting position, and the platter stops spinning. This hands-off approach eliminates the risk of scratching records due to mishandling, making it an ideal option for amateur vinyl enthusiasts.
Automation isn’t the only gimmick Pro-Ject seems to be teasing in their latest model. A1.2 also boasts meaningful upgrades that elevate its audio performance. One of the most notable improvements is the new aluminum platter, which replaces the lighter steel version found in the original A1. As per Gear Patrol, this heavier, more rigid platter reduces resonance and improves rotational stability, resulting in a cleaner, more precise sound.
The platter comes paired with a low-vibration synchronous motor and a silicone drive belt that helps A1.2 deliver consistent speed accuracy, supporting both 33 1/3 and 45 RPM playback with a simple button press to switch between speeds. Another notable improvement is the tonearm of the record player. As highlighted by What Hi Fi, the A1.2’s tonearm now features a preset tracking force and anti-skating adjustment, ensuring optimal performance right out of the box.
The A1.2 turntable also comes equipped with an Ortofon OM10 moving magnet cartridge, which is a step up from the entry-level options often found in budget turntables. One of the most practical additions to the Automat A1.2 is its built-in phono preamp. This feature allows users to connect the turntable directly to powered speakers or an amplifier without needing an external phono stage, simplifying setup and reducing costs. I’m no tech junkie, so the built-in phono preamp seems like a godsend.
Also Read: Pro-Ject Limited-Edition Turntable Boasts Wickedly Red Appearance That Screams AC/DC
Lastly, we have the chassis that’s crafted from resonance-damping wood, available in sleek black or walnut finishes. At €499 ($540), it’s not pocket change, but it feels like a fair deal for what you get. The market is flooded with both cheaper turntables and high-end ones, but A1.2 sandwiches right in the middle. It’s got the pedigree of a reliable manufacturer and a price that won’t make you wince. Those interested can retail it at audio shops across the U.S. or place their orders on the official website of Pro-Ject Audio System, however, the latter is unclear at the moment.
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