On the basic T1, to change the speed from 33 1/3 RPM to 45 RPM, you’ll have to lift off the platter and adjust the height of the belt on the motor pulley. All three versions are based around an entirely plastic-free, CNC-machined one-piece plinth that, according to the manufacturer, contains no hollow spaces. This helps to minimise unwanted vibrations within the chassis. Pro-Ject is clearly quite big on this particular topic, as the T1 also features purpose-chosen turntable feet designed to isolate the system from ambient vibrations, plus a heavy, zero-resonance glass platter. Whatever you do, don't mistake it for a microwave plate. Personally, I’m a fan of acrylic platters (which is something you can find or upgrade to on other turntables), but a glass platter is certainly a nice option here. ProJect T1 vs T1BT vs T1 Phono SB

Of course, I’m talking about the Project T1. And in this review, not only am I going to help you discover what this turntable offers in terms of features, quality, and price, but I’ll help you understand how you can set it up, how this turntable compares to many of its affordable record player peers in the marketplace, and overall give you my thoughts as to whether the Project T1 is worth your money and time. While I wasn’t completely sure what to expect from the T1 once I had it up and running, I was fairly confident that it would be good. The Essential III is an absolutely brilliant turntable and even the cost effective Primary is a compelling listen. Even with this taken into account, the T1 was still able to spring some wholly pleasant surprises.TheT1 BTfeatures a switchable Moving Magnet phono stage with Bluetooth transmission so you can output at Line level, Phono or wirelessly via Bluetooth. The Pro-Ject T1 is classic Pro-Ject design with clean lines and no frills. The turntable houses a built-in belt drive motor and spindle, which should help with isolating some vibration from the motor. Enjoy the best sound you’re your vinyl, plus the benefit of Bluetooth output, with the Project T1 BT. Pro-Ject would also argue the T1 is easier to set up than its Rega rival, and with that we couldn't disagree. It might only be the difference of 15 minutes or so spent gauging weights, but that could understandably be pivotal for those looking for an easy entry into great vinyl sound.

Let’s start with the basics. The Pro-Ject is absolutely pitch stable and the noise floor via the built-in phono stage is sufficiently low (and the gain it offers sufficiently high) that normal listening levels are unlikely to result in any significant level of unwanted noise. What does this mean in reality? It means that the T1 can play - and really dig into - Paul’s Boutique by the Beastie Boys.TheT1 Phono SBfeatures a built-in speed control for automatic switching between 33 and 45 RPM, and a switchable Moving Magnet phono stage, so you can connect directly to a LINE level input or still make use of an external phono stage.

Unlike many other turntables around this price, the Pro-Ject T1 has all the elements of a proper hi-fi turntable - just at a lower price. Rather than plastic, the CNC machined plinth is made from MDF. This gives lower resonance for reduced distortion. Mounted to the plinth is a steel/brass bearing that’s the same as the award-winning Essential III and, combined with the new heavy glass platter, provides smooth and stable running for perfect pitch. Pro-Ject should simplify its complex range of turntables and thus make it clearer to customers. That, however, did not happen, even though the Xpression and Experience lines were shut down. In the meantime two new types of devices were added so there are 12 turntable lines again. In the last few years, Pro-Ject has paid the most attention to basic models intended for those who would enter the world of turntables with less effort and investment. Design & Adjustments Effortlessly simple to set-up and produces a highly engaging, accessible sound that really makes your records sing. Made in Europe, and featuring only premium materials – there is no plastic where it shouldn’t be, as every component part is made to the same exacting standards as far more expensive designs. ProJect have a passionate belief in the importance of true stereo sound, and their turntables are a key part of that. The Pro-Ject T1 is directly aimed at a very specific consumer. It wants to give you an audiophile experience—that is, no cheap parts inside the turntable, vibration absorbing feet, a quality tonearm, etc—but doesn’t want you to feel the need to have to spend a lot of money.The Rega betters the T1 in terms of dynamics too, but then it has bettered most rivals over the past few years. There is still enough feeling here for an entertaining performance, it just isn’t the subtlest performer available for this money. Verdict The perfect balance of sound quality and ease-of-use, the Project T1 Phono SB features electronic speed control for added versatility.