- As the latest model in the Pro-Ject Artist Collection, Pro-Ject Audio Systems now presents the new Pro-Ject AC/DC turntable.
The Pro-Ject Artist Collection, the product line of record players in which Pro-Ject Audio Systems always works together with outstanding artists to design solutions that are directly related to the respective artists and their work, has already produced many a particularly fine turntable. The line-up of renowned artists has now been extended to include another outstanding formation, namely the Australian band AC/DC.
The band, which has been an integral part of the international rock music scene for decades and has even played a major role in shaping this genre, is now being honoured with the new Pro-Ject AC/DC turntable, whereby the developers probably didn’t have too much trouble finding elements that are clearly associated with AC/DC and thus guarantee a unique turntable.
Distinctive chassis
AC/DC is one of those bands that skilfully created a clear, unmistakable brand. The lettering of the band’s name alone is a prime example of excellent product marketing. According to Pro-Ject Audio Systems, this iconic image is reminiscent of a lightning bolt, so it was used as the basis for the design of the drive.
The base is made of MDF in the shape of a lightning bolt, painted black and resting on three height-adjustable spikes for optimum decoupling. Incidentally, the chassis is made of 28 mm thick MDF, so despite the very slim shape and dimensions of 495 x 135 x 405, it has a corresponding mass.
Heavy glass platter with LED lighting
The new Pro-Ject AC/DC turntable relies on a solid, precise brass bearing in which a stainless steel axle of the acrylic sub-platter rotates. The platter is driven by the sub-platter using a precision belt and a 15 V 0.8 A AC motor with electronic speed control. The speed can therefore be easily selected between 33 and 45 revolutions per minute.
The platter is made of glass and is comparatively heavy with a thickness of 10 mm. Incidentally, a felt mat or similar support is deliberately omitted here, as this allows a view of the semi-transparent acrylic sub-platter, which is illuminated by a red LED. However, it should be noted that a felt mat is included in the scope of delivery, so it can be used if desired.
Unique tone arm made of transparent acrylic
Another special feature of the new Pro-Ject AC/DC turntable is its tonearm, as the manufacturer claims that it does not rely on a solution from the conventional product range, but on an 8.6 inch tonearm made of transparent, deep red acrylic and spring anti-skating specially developed for this turntable.
Ortofon 2M Red MM cartridge pre-installed
Incidentally, the tonearm is fitted ex works with a very fine cartridge system from the specialist Ortofon A/S, namely – fittingly – an Ortofon 2M Red MM cartridge. There is therefore no need to upgrade here, even for the most demanding users.
It should also be mentioned that the new Pro-Ject AC/DC turntable uses gold-plated RCA connections and is supplied with a semi-balanced phono cable from the Pro-Ject Connect it Series.
Prices and availability
The new Pro-Ject AC/DC Turntable is now available from specialist retailers at a recommended retail price of € 1.299,-. It should be emphasised once again that this is a limited special edition.
Getting to the point
The Pro-Ject Artist Collection has already produced some very, very fine turntables, and the new Pro-Ject AC/DC Turntable is another remarkable record player. Pro-Ject Audio Systems has not only opted for a unique design here, but also some ‘gimmicks’ that will not only delight fans of the Australian rock band AC/DC, such as the glass platter, which is highlighted with red LED lighting, and the special tonearm, which, like the chassis of the record player, is shaped like a lightning bolt and made of transparent red acrylic. The fact that an impeccable pick-up system is pre-installed ex works should also be emphasised, although this is also, appropriately, in red.
| Product | Pro-Ject AC/DC Turntable |
|---|---|
| Price | € 1.299,- |
| Brand | Pro-Ject Audio Systems |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Pro-Ject Audio Systems |
| Distribution Austria | Audio Tuning Vertriebs GmbH |
| Distribution Germany | Audio Trade Hi-Fi Vertriebsgesellschaft mbH |
| Distribution Switzerland | Lakeside Audio |
| More about this manufacturer at HiFi BLOG |
