Turntables — Pro-Ject E1

The E1 is an accessible belt-drive turntable from Pro-Ject, built with electronically switchable speed control and an 8.6-inch gimbal tonearm using an aluminium tube. The E1 brings Pro-Ject's considered engineering to an entry-level analogue playback format.

Key specs that matter

Two speeds are supported - 33 and 45rpm - switched electronically rather than by manual belt repositioning. A pre-installed gimbal tonearm comes fitted with a factory-mounted Audio-Technica AT3600L cartridge. The platter is a 300mm design with a felt mat, driven by a DC motor. Signal-to-noise is 65dB. At 420 x 112 x 330mm and 3.5kg, the E1 maintains a compact, lightweight entry-level turntable chassis.

Sound and use context

Expect a dependable entry-level performance reflecting the electronically switchable speed control's convenience, with the pre-installed Audio-Technica cartridge providing a straightforward starting point for new vinyl listeners.

Pairing

The pre-installed Audio-Technica AT3600L cartridge comes factory-matched, and the E1 connects straightforwardly to an amplifier with a built-in phono stage or an external phono preamplifier.

Alternatives

Pro-Ject's own Debut RecordMaster II offers a more accomplished alternative within the same broader accessible turntable catalogue.