Description

Pro-Ject The Classic EVO is a belt-driven, floating-chassis turntable that takes the aesthetics of the great classics of the '50s and '60s and updates them with contemporary mechanical solutions. It draws on the experience of its predecessor, The Classic, an EISA award-winning turntable, and the 175 Vienna Philharmonic Recordplayer, from which it inherits the diamond-turned aluminum sub-platter.

The heart of the design is resonance control. The aluminum and MDF sandwich subchassis rests on six TPE (thermoplastic elastomer) spheres, which isolate the platter and tonearm from motor and plinth vibrations. Unlike spring-suspended chassis, it does not require periodic calibration. The 300mm aluminum platter is also TPE-damped, reducing the resonances typical of cast platters.

The 9" tonearm has a carbon and aluminum sandwich tube: the former for rigidity, the latter for damping. Azimuth and VTA adjustments allow it to be adapted to different cartridges, while the effective mass of 13,5 g makes it suitable for both moving magnets and moving coils. Which turntable should you choose for listening to vinyl with an moving coil cartridge without spending too much? This is the scenario this model was designed for.

In everyday use, the electronic speed change between 33 and 45 rpm is done with a push of a button, without moving the belt. The height-adjustable feet make leveling easy. The output is phono-level on RCA with a ground terminal: therefore, an external phono preamplifier or an amplifier with a phono input is required, or MC if using a moving coil cartridge.

When listening to it, the specialized press praised its very low noise floor and excellent pitch stability. It's an analog source suitable for those looking for a wooden hi-fi turntable with a traditional look, easy to install, and with room for improvement on the cartridge front.

Specifications

About the brand

Pro-Ject Audio Systems represents Austrian excellence in the world of hi-fi, founded in 1991 by Heinz Lichtenegger in Litovel, Czech Republic. With over thirty years of experience, the brand has established itself as a world leader in the production of turntables and analog sources, delighting audiophiles and music lovers in over 80 countries. Pro-Ject combines traditional European craftsmanship with technological innovation, offering accessible hi-fi products without compromising on sound quality.
Pro-Ject's corporate philosophy is based on fundamental principles that have guided the brand's growth into the world's largest turntable manufacturer. Heinz Lichtenegger built the company on the belief that high-fidelity music listening should be accessible to all audiophiles, not just a select few. This democratic vision of high-fidelity has led Pro-Ject to develop products that combine excellent performance with competitive prices. The company maintains direct control over every aspect of its production. fase from design to distribution, ensuring consistent quality standards. Research and development focuses on optimizing each component, from vibration isolation to mechanical precision, using select materials such as solid wood, milled aluminum, and special steels. European production ensures rigorous quality controls and reliable delivery times, while the global distribution network guarantees qualified technical support in every market.
Pro-Ject's signature technologies include the TPE Damping System, a proprietary blend of materials that eliminates unwanted resonances from the platter and chassis. The Mass Loading Ring adds mass to the platter to stabilize rotation and reduce flutter, while precision bearings ensure perfectly smooth and silent rotation. Pro-Ject tonearms use optimized geometries and adjustable counterweights to minimize tracking error. A three-point isolation system with adjustable feet protects the stereo system from external vibrations, a crucial element for analog playback quality.
The Pro-Ject product range spans from entry-level turntables to high-end digital sources. Turntables are the company's core business, with models for every need and budget. Pro-Ject's transistor integrated amplifiers combine minimalist design and refined circuitry, ideal for driving bookshelf and floorstanding speakers with optimal efficiency. The Box Design line includes compact audio electronics that maximize performance in small spaces, perfect for modern hi-fi systems.
The Debut Pro Series represents Pro-Ject's entry into the world of analog, with turntables featuring steel platters, pre-installed tonearms, and plug-and-play solutions for entry-level audiophiles. The Classic line offers significant upgrades with heavier platters, interchangeable tonearms, and premium solid wood finishes. The X-Series models introduce advanced technologies such as isolated synchronous motors and external power supplies to eliminate electrical interference. The Xtension range uses exotic materials such as carbon fiber and aircraft-grade aluminum for reference-level performance. Pro-Ject electronics include MM/MC phono stages for optimizing analog signals, pre- and power amplifiers for bi-amped systems, and CD/SACD/DVD players for digital sources.
Pro-Ject has received numerous accolades from the international trade press, with awards from What Hi-Fi, Stereophile, Hi-Fi Choice, and other respected publications. Pro-Ject turntables regularly top "Best Buy" lists across all price ranges, confirming their exceptional value for money. Reviews consistently highlight their build quality, long-lasting reliability, and superior sonic performance compared to their direct competitors.
Pro-Ject's target audience includes audiophiles of all levels, from beginners approaching vinyl for the first time to the most demanding enthusiasts seeking reference-level analog sources. Price ranges from entry-level models under €300 to high-end solutions costing over €10.000, ensuring options for every budget. The company particularly targets young audiophiles rediscovering the allure of analog and vinyl collectors seeking the highest fidelity reproduction.
In Italy, Pro-Ject is distributed through a widespread network of specialized dealers who guarantee qualified advice and after-sales technical assistance. The Italian customer service team supports audiophiles with ongoing dealer training and direct technical support. The availability of spare parts and upgrades ensures the longevity of investments, while authorized service centers offer specialized maintenance to maintain optimal performance over time. To discover all the available Pro-Ject products, visit the turntables and integrated amplifiers sections. Audiocostruzioni.

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