Pro-Ject Announces New XA B True Balanced Turntable

Pro-Ject announced the latest addition to its ‘X’ turntable lineup. According to the Austrian manufacturer, the new XA B ($1,499 MSRP) aims to deliver the highest quality audio from vinyl records, right out of the box. In addition to offering a True Balanced Connection via a dedicated 5-pin DIN output, the turntable features a plinth constructed of transparent acrylic, premium 10" one-piece aluminum tonearm, and pre-adjusted Pick it Pro Balanced MM cartridge.

British loudspeaker designer Ferguson Hill announced that its Jetstream Loudspeaker System is now available and shipping as a complete system. The Jetstream, two decades in the making, builds on the seminal FH001 sound system. Twenty years after unveiling its debut system, Ferguson Hill's latest generation of the Jetstream maintains the extraordinary, transparent visuals; however, the Kent-based maker upgraded practically every single component of the original Jetstream Loudspeaker System.

U-Turn Audio, a small, independent American maker of turntables based in Woburn, Massachusetts, announced the first ever refresh of their Orbit Turntable lineup. This next generation of turntables adds enhancements to their Orbit Basic, Plus, and Special models, and the ability to personalize a product with Orbit Custom models. The turntables feature high-tech magnesium tonearm, electronic speed control, revamped drive system, and more options than ever before - starting at just $249.

If manufacturers of audio systems want to remain the first point of contact as partners of the automotive industry, quality must be guaranteed in addition to improved performance in assembly. One hurdle: Loudspeaker components are mostly bonded together. Only a technology that can guarantee precise dispensing of adhesives at high cycle rates is therefore suitable for reliable scaling from manual to semi- or fully automatic speaker production.