Can a turntable priced just below $400 satisfy the expectations of audiophiles? According to the Austrian company Pro-Ject, their latest T1-EVO model is capable of doing just that. It is important to note, however, that this lower price point—unlike that of higher-end models—necessitated some compromises. One might assume this was achieved through manufacturing in the Far East, but Pro-Ject clarifies that the production occurs in a European factory with a long-standing history of crafting record players.
An Ortofon OM10 cartridge with diamond stylus tip is pre-mounted on the Pro-Ject T1-Evo tonearm.
Includes Ortofon OM10 MM pick-up
The T1 EVO model comes in three variants: standard, phono, and BT. Pro-Ject emphasizes that throughout the development of the belt drive, they were “meticulous about not compromising sound quality, regardless of the price.” Included in the package is an Ortofon OM10 moving magnet cartridge featuring an elliptical diamond stylus. Additionally, the manufacturer provides shielded, quasi-symmetrical, low-capacitance phono cables specifically designed for connecting turntables.
The Pro-Ject T1 EVO is available in three color variants: walnut, matte white and high-gloss black
Low-vibration chassis and aluminum tonearm
The T1-EVO chassis is crafted using CNC machining and comes in a high-gloss black, matte white, and walnut finish. Pro-Ject emphasizes that the design contains no plastic components and features a solid construction without cavities, effectively minimizing unwanted vibrations.
The turntable is constructed from solid glass for similar reasons. Its newly engineered sub-platter is positioned within a turntable bearing that has a precision of 0.001mm, featuring a hardened stainless steel shaft set in a brass bushing.
The bearing of the Pro-Ject T1-EVO tonearm is designed for low friction.
The manufacturer states that the 8.6-inch tonearm is crafted from a single piece of aluminum and features low-friction bearings, allowing for highly precise tracking.
This description suggests that the product is far from being inexpensive. The key inquiry is how Pro-Ject is able to provide this entry-level turntable at such an affordable price. The assurance is that the T1 EVO delivers genuine HiFi sound quality at a minimal cost.
T1-EVO: Three models, three prices
Pro-Ject offers the T1 EVO in several configurations: the standard model is priced at $399, the T1 EVO Phono version is available for $449, and the T1 EVO BT is offered at $499.
