Pro-Ject’s new fully automatic A1.2 turntable is a masterclass in effortless vinyl playbackAustrian hi-fi maker Pro-Ject has unveiled the A1.2, the latest belt-drive, fully automatic turntable in its AUTOMAT lineup
Building on the success of the original A1, this new model refines its performance with a series of thoughtful upgrades aimed at enhancing sound and built quality, and ease of use.

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To start, the A1.2 features an all-new die-cast aluminium platter, replacing the A1’s stamped version. This upgrade, combined with CNC machining for greater precision, is said to bring a more stable, low-resonance playback experience.
Another notable improvement is the deck’s 8.3-inch “ultra-light-mass” aluminium tonearm, which now features a redesigned headshell made from carbon fibre-reinforced polymer. This construction increases stability while keeping weight to a minimum.
“The thoughtful engineering extends to the A1.2’s fully mechanical operation, eliminating motors or electrical components on the tonearm,” says Pro-Ject. “By eschewing these potential sources of interference, unwanted resonance is avoided, and once a record is playing, the mechanics disengage entirely, preserving playback quality.”
Similar to its predecessor, the A1.2 is handmade in Germany by a traditional manufacturer renowned for its expertise in automatic turntables, while final assembly is done in the Czech Republic by technicians with decade long experience.
Image: Pro-Ject
Setting up the A1.2 is straightforward, given that the tracking force and anti-skating are factory-adjusted, and the included Pro-Ject Pick it MM E cartridge is aligned and mounted for peak performance right out of the box.
Users can toggle the built-in phono preamp by lifting the mat and adjusting the switch, allowing seamless integration with any hi-fi setup. Operating the turntable is as simple as selecting 33 or 45 RPM, removing the stylus cover, and pressing start/stop — the platter will begin spinning, and the tonearm will move to the correct position before gently lowering itself onto the record. Once playback finishes, it returns automatically to its resting position.
Set to launch in the UK this April, the A1.2 is available in black or white finish, and is priced at £469.
If understated decks like the A1.2 aren’t your style, Pro-Ject had something louder in store earlier this year with the release of an AC/DC-themed turntable, complete with a bold lightning bolt design that screams High Voltage.
Learn more at Project Audio.
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