Pro-Ject Audio Systems has introduced The Classic Reference turntable, which the company considers “a supremely upgraded Classic EVO or an enhanced version of the VPO 175 limited edition turntable.”
For this latest new turntable, the brand used the EVO 9 AS HG tonearm. High-precision ABEC 7 bearings are housed in a aluminum gimbal for frictionless, resonance-free operation. An internally damped S-shaped aluminum armtube makes way for a removable headshell so that cartridge enthusiasts are empowered to swap transducers to their liking. The high-mass aluminum alloy record platter is damped with TPE (Thermoplastic Elastomer), eliminating unwanted resonance. The Clamp it record clamp and Leather it record mat are included in-purchase for additional resonance control.
The tonearm is mounted to a massive aluminum alloy top-plate supported by TPE pods sandwiched between it and the MDF plinth. The record platter rotates on an aluminum sub-platter that is belt-driven by the AC motor. The AC motor is fed steady, clean power by Pro-Ject’s own DC/AC generator, which decouples the turntable from the AC mains. Balanced, full-sized XLR outputs are now onboard, which means users have the option of connecting The Classic Reference to any phono stage with corresponding inputs. RCA/ground, of course, remains onboard as well and is ready for use with the supplied Connect it Phono E cable set.
The Classic Reference is available for special order only. Select between silver with a gloss black plinth ($5999) or brass with an Acacia plinth ($6999).
For more information, visit https://pro-jectusa.com/product/the-classic-reference-audiophile-turntable/.