Pro-Ject Audio Systems introduced the Automat A1 approximately three years ago, a fully automatic turntable designed for user-friendliness. Now, a successor has arrived: the Automat A1.2. This new model retains the fully automatic functionality of its predecessor while enhancing the turntable platter and drive system. The package includes a tonearm, MM cartridge, dust cover, and phono cable.
The Automat A1.2 continues the tradition of automatic operation established by the original Automat A1. It boasts an upgraded platter and drive system, a new MM cartridge, and is available in both the classic black and a new white finish. Be sure to check out our review of the Pro-Ject Audio Automat A1.
The Automat A1.2 features an automatic system that is meticulously crafted in Germany by a well-respected and skilled manufacturer of automatic turntables. The final assembly occurs at the Pro-Ject factory located in the Czech Republic.
According to the manufacturer, significant consideration has been given to the mechanics. “The carefully designed engineering of the A1.2 includes a fully mechanical operation, which removes any motors or electrical components from the tonearm. This design choice helps to eliminate potential interference and unwanted resonance. Once a record is played, the mechanisms are entirely deactivated, ensuring the preservation of playback quality,” Pro-Ject states.
The goal is to simplify the use of turntables, making the experience as seamless as possible. With the automatic arm control, users can enjoy a more ‘hands-free’ approach to playing records.
To operate the A1.2, simply press the start button, and the tonearm will automatically lift and position itself at the record’s starting groove. At the end of the record, it will raise and return to the armrest on its own. Is it magic? Not quite. This was once a standard feature, but today, fully manual operation has become more popular, often perceived as trendier.
The Automat A1.2 is equipped with a newly designed cast aluminum turntable, which boasts precision CNC machining, a significant upgrade from the stamped turntable found in its predecessor, the Automat A1.
To minimize resonances and external vibrations, the turntable is supported by a robust wooden plinth and silicone-damped feet. The 8.3-inch tonearm features an ‘ultra-light-mass’ aluminum construction, with a completely reengineered arm head reinforced with carbon fiber, ensuring stability, rigidity, and a lightweight design.
Continuing the tradition of its predecessor, the belt-driven Automat A1.2 includes a built-in phono amplifier that can be utilized or bypassed as desired. The platter is capable of rotating at both 33 1/3 and 45 revolutions per minute.
Included with the turntable is the Pick-it MM E cartridge. The factory has already set the stylus pressure and anti-skating compensation, allowing users to simply place a record on the turntable, press “Start,” and enjoy their music right out of the box.
The Pro-Ject Audio Automat A1.2 is offered in black or white and is priced at just under $500. It comes complete with a dust cover, tonearm, cartridge, and phono cable.
