With the Pro-Ject Automat A1 turntable, all the pieces of the super-complex automatics are entirely built and assembled by hand in Germany by a traditional manufacturing process. Known for their superb reliability and outstanding sound quality.
The chance to get access to this technology is a once in a lifetime opportunity and allows Pro-Ject to reach new pinnacles in automatic turntable design.
It has fully automatic start/stop with the automatics being completely disengaged and decoupled during the entire runtime of the record. The fully mechanical automatics are engaged when you press start and the tonearm is automatically moved to the lead in groove of the record.
Once playing, the automatics are completely taken out of the equation and do not affect the playback quality - the free movement of the tonearm and platter.
And because the automatics are working entirely mechanically – no additional electronics needed – they are truly not influencing or degrading sound quality during playback.
Pro-Ject Automat A1 - Product Features
Controlled 33/45 RPM Speeds
In typical Pro-Ject fashion, the motor is electronically controlled for the most accurate and stable playback speeds.
Easily switch between 33 and 45 RPM with the push of a button.
Switchable Built-in Phono Preamp
The built-in phono preamp makes the A1 incredibly versatile and allows you to connect it directly to any input on your amplifier or to an active speaker-set.
The phono preamp can also be switched off, which allows you to use your own phono preamp or your amplifier’s phono input.
Ultra-light-Mass Aluminium Tonearm
The A1 features an 8.3” ultra-light-mass aluminium tonearm. Together with the Ortofon OM10, which fits this design principle perfectly, you get extraordinary fast response and detail in terms of transients and microdynamics.
A little-known fact is that the OM series of cartridges have their developmental roots and legacy in ultra-light-mass tonearm designs.
Tracking force and anti-skating are factory pre-adjusted which make the A1 plug & play ready within a few seconds. This makes it perfect for vinyl beginners and experienced listeners alike as the sound quality is carried by all the audiophile features the A1 has on offer.
Carbon Fibre Reinforced Anti-Magnetic Headshell
The headshell is a completely new design especially for the A1. It is made of carbon fibre reinforced polymer which makes it super stable and rigid, all while keeping the weight at a lowest to work perfectly with the ultra-light-mass tonearm design.
The polymer/carbon composite material results in excellent internal damping of resonances.
Heavy Wooden Chassis
The wooden chassis avoids hollow spaces wherever possible, with just enough space to precision fit all the inner workings of the A1. As a result, the chassis’ heavy mass reduces unwanted resonances to a minimum and decouples the A1 from outside influences.
Damped Aluminium Platter
The aluminium platter is 100% made in Germany. In three operations it is first stamped, bent and perforated. After that, it goes directly to a local German supplier for phosphating and de-oiling.
A damping ring on the inside is added to increase weight and reduce resonances. In an extra step, it is then lathed and precision balanced to receive its fine edges and lowest wow and flutter deviations.
Finally, it gets its smooth paint job, adding to the all-black stylish and clean looks of the A1.
Technical Specifications
- Speed: 33, 45 (electronic speed change)
- Drive principle: belt drive, fully automatic
- Platter: damped aluminium platter
- Wow & flutter: 33: +/-0,27%; 45: +/-0,25%
- Speed drift: 33: +/-0,75%; 45: +/-0,65%
- Signal to noise: 65dB
- Tonearm: ultra-light-mass 8.3” aluminium tonearm
- Effective arm length: 211mm
- Overhang: 19.5mm
- Included accessories: 15V DC / 0,8A power supply, dust cover, 7‘‘ single adapter, feltmat, phono cable
- Power consumption: 1.5W
- Dimensions: 430 x 130 x 365 mm (WxHxD)
- Weight: 5.6 kg net
Further Information
Pro-Ject Automat A1 - User Manual