The increase in personal electronic devices and domestic networks mean a lot more potential sources for interference for record players. Balanced connections are common among professionals in recording studios and at live events where it's critical to have a stable and interference-free connection. Such signals (especially microphone signals) are highly amplified. The same applies to the connection from a turntable to a phono preamp. The main advantage in taking the balanced approach is the removal of accrued noise and interference from the phono signal.
To ensure the best connection to the phono preamplifier, Austrian manufacturer Pro-Ject designed the True Balanced Connection product range, adaptable for modern lifestyles. The lineup includes the new turntables with RCA phono and 5-pin mini XLR outputs, and new Phono box S3 B and DS3 B preamplifiers. Pro-Ject is also releasing complementary Connect it True Balance phono cables to support the range.
The new Pro-Ject X1 B And X2 B turntables both feature heavy MDF chassis, electronic speed control with 33/45 rpm speed change, and are both fitted with the elegant Sumiko Rainier MM cartridge, factory-mounted and aligned. The Pro-Ject X2 B model is equipped with a 9" carbon/aluminum tonearm, while the X1 B uses a 2-layer, 8.6" carbon/aluminum tonearm for both maximum rigidity and optimal armtube damping. The ultra-low-friction 4-pinpoint tonearm bearing and one-piece design staves off vibration and eliminates the extra break in the signal caused by a detachable headshell. The TPE-damped counterweight reduces arm/cartridge resonance by as much as 50%, further illustrating how X1 B is designed for anyone who prioritizes the sound of their vinyl.
The full aluminum tonearm base also offers features like variable azimuth and vertical tracking angle (VTA). Tonearm height can be continuously adjusted by loosening and re-tightening two grub screws, allowing for use of different turntable mats and/or phono cartridge. Both turntables come with Pro-Ject's high-quality Connect it E RCA/ground phono cable set which is semi-balanced, low in capacitance and thoroughly shielded. In order to take full advantage of balanced signal transmission, users need to pair the turntables with the appropriate cable from the new balanced phono cable lineup.
Another difference between the X2 B and the X1 B is on the motor used in each model, which Pro-Ject just says are both ultra-quiet and feature a suspension for additional isolation. The motor chassis is carefully balanced and suspended on a precision-tuned TPE belt; this way the motor chassis itself is decoupled from the main plinth for optimal performance. Due to the its added mass, the X2 B enables vinyl reproduction to be more detailed and precise. The plinth stands on height-adjustable, TPE-damped aluminum feet for precise leveling and optimal isolation.
The playback speeds are electronically controlled by a sophisticated DC/AC generator that guarantees the most accurate and stable rotation. With the supplied flat belt users can switch between 33 and 45rpm, and with round belt (also included) users can toggle between 45 and 78rpm.
The new turntables retail for $1,299 (X1B) and $1,699 (X2B) USD, both available in four finishes: a premium real-walnut veneer, a luxurious 8-layer high-gloss black or sleek satin finish in black or white.
www.pro-jectusa.com
www.project-audio.com
