LEVEL UP Your Turntable! Pro Ject Debut Pro! Record Player Review

✅ 🛒 Pro-Ject Debut Pro: bit.ly/3y72jri, bit.ly/3mj3pvz, amzn.to/3qm0X80
✅ CLICK SHOW MORE ⬇️ for how we tested the Pro-ject + comparable turntables
► SHOP THE PRO-JECT DEBUT PRO RECORD PLAYER
▹▹ Pro-Ject Debut Pro: bit.ly/3y72jri, bit.ly/3mj3pvz, amzn.to/3qm0X80
► TESTING THE PRO-JECT DEBUT PRO
POWER/PREAMP
Audiolab 6000A Play: bit.ly/3G5KATV, bit.ly/3AiW43w
McIntosh 7200: bit.ly/3Gm2z86
Canor Ai 1.10: bit.ly/3w2o9t8
U-Turn Audio Pluto: bit.ly/3EX7gor, amzn.to/3EJ7Khw
Decware Zen: bit.ly/3rHu0BP
SPEAKERS (abbreviated list)
Klipsch Forte IV: amzn.to/2PggXtz, bit.ly/3komedS
Klipsch Heresy IV: amzn.to/3oF1i44
Focal K2: bit.ly/3nQWOZF
KEF Q750: bit.ly/2ZT3Q77
MUSIC
Portishead, Dummy: amzn.to/34K9zLV
Panic! At the Disco, Pray…: amzn.to/34JOS1w
Goo Goo Dolls RSD: amzn.to/3nkbzn9
John Mayer, Search For…: amzn.to/2UgAAR9
► COMPARABLE TURNTABLES
U-Turn Orbit: amzn.to/3ER5q8i
U-Turn Orbit Special: bit.ly/UTOS0A
Fluance RT85: bit.ly/RT85player
Audio Technica LP140: bit.ly/3GwR51z, amzn.to/33OfgXO
Ortofon 2M Black: amzn.to/3qy53tn
Pro-Ject X1: amzn.to/3tj6nnd
ProJect X2: bit.ly/3Pqcazb
► MORE FROM PRO-JECT
X1 Turntable: amzn.to/3tj6nnd
X2 Turntable: ​​bit.ly/3Pqcazb, amzn.to/3fbRDyz
T1 Bluetooth Turntable: amzn.to/3bmtO4U, amzn.to/3b3axVm
Carbon Evo: amzn.to/3zOelWJ
► PRO-JECT RECORD PLAYER REVIEW
Pro-Ject makes quality turntables at almost every price point. So how much does a decent turntable cost? In this Pro Ject record player review, we take a look at Pro Ject’s newest record player, the Debut Pro, where we’ll find out how it compares to other record players. Is the Debut Pro the best value among Pro Ject record players? Let’s find out!
INTRO: 00:00
PROJECT DEBUT PRO TURNTABLE SPECS: 00:18
TURNTABLE SETUP: 01:56
PROJECT DEBUT PRO DESIGN QUALITY: 02:37
EVALUATING THE PROJECT TURNTABLE: 03:13
PROJECT DEBUT PRO SOUND QUALITY: 04:07
PROJECT TURNTABLE CONCERNS: 06:38
PROJECT TURNTABLES VS U-TURN ORBIT: 07:15
PROJECT VS FLUANCE RT85: 07:50
PROJECT VS AUDIO TECHNICA AND ORTOFON 2M BLACK: 08:23
CONCLUSION: 09:11
KRISTI'S TAKE: 09:53
SIGN OFF: 16:27
► WHAT'S IN THE BACKGROUND OF YOUR A-CAMERA SHOTS?
SPEAKERS: amzn.to/2PggXtz, bit.ly/3komedS
AMP: bit.ly/3Gm2z86
TURNTABLE: bit.ly/3q0QZtQ
TV: bit.ly/3uaJTn5, amzn.to/3zFCCN1
HIFI RACK: bit.ly/3yrPUgi, bit.ly/ssvlrack
BENCH: amzn.to/3lIxJ0Z, amzn.to/2VSx9EO, amzn.to/3lDgKNx
ART: bit.ly/howfaryt
LEATHER OTTOMAN CUBES: amzn.to/3cfcfF1
★ MORE ANDREW ROBINSON REVIEWS
➔ Fluance RT85 Review: • Fluance RT85 Turntable...
➔ Audio Technica LP140XP Review: • AS GOOD AS TECHNICS!? ...
➔ U-Turn Record Player Review: • Hipster Turntable even...
► SHOP OUR LIVING ROOM
ART: bit.ly/howfaryt
TV STAND: bit.ly/BDIMEDIA
SPEAKER STANDS: bit.ly/2VOs7p3, bit.ly/SolidAA
HIFI RACK: bit.ly/3yrPUgi, bit.ly/ssvlrack
BENCH: amzn.to/3lIxJ0Z, amzn.to/2VSx9EO, amzn.to/3lDgKNx
LEATHER CHAIR & SOFA: bit.ly/NirvanaChr // bit.ly/2HI6cMH
EAMES REPLICA CHAIR: amzn.to/39mcn2Y
LEATHER OTTOMAN CUBES: amzn.to/3cfcfF1
EVERYTHING ELSE: bit.ly/ARdecor
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#project #recordplayer #homeaudio

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

✅ *GET IT HERE: **bit.ly/3mj3pvz* ★ *QOTD: What’s your favorite Pro-ject turntable?* ★ *CLICK 🔝 “SHOW MORE” in the description for answers to many of your questions* ★ *RULES: Please be respectful. NO OUTSIDE LINKS, URLs, email addresses, etc.*

[@SeanVedell]

QOTD: Until ten minutes ago I’d never heard of the Pro-ject brand. They look great but at barely under a grand I’d have trouble justifying buying this model for its lack of user features. I hate a home turntable that doesn’t lift the tonearm at the end of the record. Ironically, my favourite deck is the Technics 1200 but it gets a pass because I only ever used those professionally. But the 1200 is stupid expensive now so if I ever upgrade from my vintage Dual 505 platter I’ll be looking at the Audio Technica because it looks and functions like a 1200 for way less.

[@bradbortner2601]

Have you ever compared to any of the Rega turntable options?

[@KristiWright]

@@bradbortner2601 Working on getting one...

[@bradbortner2601]

@@KristiWright great. Their lightweight philosophy is so different, it would be interesting to see if you think it makes a difference. Nice tonearms too.

[@MJNS301]

I'm currently running the Pro-Ject RPM 1 Carbon with the Ortofon Blue. I was able to bring in a Rega P3, also with Ortofon Blue, and to be honest, I couldn't hear much difference between the two. So, I'm happy enough with my cheaper TT at the moment. FYI, I'm using it in conjunction with the Rega Elex-R integrated, and a set of Goldenear Triton 3's. I believe you reviewed the Tritons a number of years ago Andrew. Personally, I think I'm pretty much at the point of diminishing returns with my current setup vs budget. 😉 Thanks to both of you for the informative videos!

[@MrVandalizer79]

I’m two weeks into using the Audio Technical lp140/Ortofon Black LVB combo and I couldn’t be happier. I’m blown away by the combo. This video was a conveniently timed confirmation on my purchase. In a world of limitless TT and cartridge combinations, I’m very happy to be, frankly, very happy. So thanks again, guys!

[@sieteenliesdejong4449]

I got the Pro this week , its really awesome , what a sound and great looks , love it and i have after a long time goosebumps again , i think its the best turntable under the 1000 euro's , amazing

[@markflower8885]

I bought that turntable for my daughter at Xmas, along with the Ifi Zen phono. The Project is a bit less expensive in the UK (£699) and comes with the PICK-IT pro cartridge which was developed in conjunction with Ortofon especially for the turntable.. From what i've heard of it seems very good value for money and the build quality is excellent. Also Project have good upgrade options for their turntables. Great review as always Andrew. 👍

[@S.L.1211]

I have the IFI Zen Phono as well and it’s phenomenal for the price. Dead silent noise floor, adjustable for MCoil carts, and great dynamics.

[@CamelotRecords]

Great review, honest and sincere. You guys are the ultimate duo reviewers. Andrews decades of experience and technicality coupled with Christie's (sp?) down to earth everyman/woman real life experience take on these products makes for one of my favorite places to spend my time and live out my audio obsession!!Professional content and genuinely good people. We appreciate you guys!

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Much appreciated! Thank you.

[@NicholasFerrario]

Great review, thanks - and I really enjoy your channel. I upgraded to a Project Debut Pro after owning both a Rega P1 and a Pro-Ject Debut Carbon, and I found there were a number of usability improvements that ended in me having much longer listening sessions: - A speed switch so I don't have to disassemble the turntable to change speeds via belts (unlike the Debut Carbon and the P1) - A grounded cable (unlike the P1) - Adjustable leveling, which the P1 and Debut Carbon don't have and I need because I live in an old house - An upgrade path for the Sumiko needle to a Moonstone without realigning the cartridge - An upgrade path for the turntable via platters, accessories, etc. To me, upgrade paths make this a true "project" turntable. Again, thanks for the reviews.

[@PrimeMover93]

I’ve been using the Pro-ject Espirt SB with a Ortofon Bronze MM cartridge. It’s been absolutely fantastic. Planning on upgrading to the Pro-ject Classic Evo in a few weeks!

[@analogguy5548]

Using a Denon direct drive turntable I purchased in the late ‘80’s with a similar vintage Grado cartridge. Early ‘70’s McIntosh pre-amp & power-amp, discontinued NOS Revel M-22 speakers purchased 1/2 price, modestly priced cables - Monoprice rca & KabelDirekt 14 gage speaker. I used to be an “equipment junkie” - These days I spend my money on quality vinyl - I’m enjoying the MUSIC!

[@gurupmatos]

Well, I own a Pro-ject Debut III SE with a Pro-ject acrilic platter and an Ortofon 2M Black, connected to a Pro-ject Phonobox DS2 Pre-amp, which then connects to a (now vintage) Denon AVR 3805 Receiver and a set of AE Evo 3 loudpeakers, and I love them! 😃The Denon receiver and loudspeakers are now almost 20 years old and I don't feel the need the replace either any time soon...😉

[@lonniestringfellow9854]

I still use the Turntable my dad purchased in 1974 which is a Technics 1200. I've added many carts throughout the years, and agree that the Ortofon Black is the end of the line. My Technics is a true work horse, and I wouldn't trade her for anything.

[@brianlewis5042]

Great Video. My current turntable is the MoFi StudioDeck. I loved the studioTracker cart that was pre installed , but after wearing it out in a short time, I upgraded to a Hana ML cart and now I have a “new “ turntable. My suggestion is to enjoy the pre installed cartridge and then upgrade once the original cartridge wears out. The cartridge and the phonostage is what gives each turntable it’s magic.

[@official.djanthonyb]

Love your channel bro! keep up the awesome vids

[@Kelembor]

I'm not into vinyl but damn, the whole vinyl experience is so damn beautiful.

[@johnmastroleo995]

Andrew a year ago I told you most of the audio gear you review is midfi not highend. I also complimented your review style as fun and entertaining. One year later I see you have begun reviewing much higher end products. Your reviewing style continues to be impressive. Having Christy give her point of view is great. I throughly enjoy your channel.

[@gavriushka]

I have a Debut Carbon Evo, with 2M Black, acrylic platter. I adore it. This is literally my endgame turntable. It sounds great, so does everything I want it, and I love the experience of doing most of the things manually. It’s fun, it’s interesting and I’m not considering an upgrade for many years to come. Great video guys, thank you!

[@michaelfaith]

If the cart is really the difference maker, then what about the Ortofon 2M Black on a Pro-Ject Debut Pro? Would that be better than the AT-LP140 + Ortofon combo?

[@aaronjones394]

I had a project debut with a basic ortofon cartridge, I now have a Technics 1500, and love it. Clearaudio, Sota, Linn, Rega, and VPI have some great tables.

[@Jon.]

Was looking at possibly the pro, or the debut Evo and upgrading the cartridge. Seeing what your lp140 with upgraded cartridge has done for you, what cartridge upgrade for the debut evo would you recommend ?

[@xjester1975]

Just purchased a Pro Ject Debut Carbon EVO and so far, its been very nice. Out of the box, its great and is wonderful reintroduction to the world of vinyl. The reason I chose Pro Ject over all the other was the upgradability. Nearly every part can be changed out and upgraded so this can grow with me and this hobby (and my expectations) evolve. And the Satin Green....omg SO GOOD! A stunning turntable thats great out of the box that can grow with you? Yes, please!

[@chawonytube]

Dope video. Right on point, Kristi. The Project T1Phono is a go-to.

[@fairmania]

I have a Debut II with the standard Ortofon OM5E cartridge. Bought it in 2002 and it still puts on a good show. I run it through a Project Phono Box E into a Marantz MCR 611 and my Kef Cresta 1 speakers. I had a massive downsize a few years ago, but the turntable does all I need. I would upgrade, but there are more important things in life currently. Nice review, maybe I should dream for a while :)

[@teekoh]

Hi Andrew, just wondering what results would you anticipate if you had the Ortofon 2M black on the Pro-ject Pro? It seems like your preferences steered toward the table with the better cartridge Rainier -> Blue -> Black. Thanks!

[@AfroHawk1]

Do you think this turntable with my KEF LS50 Meta with bluesound powernod(2021) will be a good pair? Or the Pro-Ject Debut Carbon EVO will be just enough ?

[@user-bo3iy2nx7p]

I have one of these. Upgraded the stylus to the Ortofon 2M Blue. Absolutely fantastic. Better than my 1980 Pioneer PL-600/Denon DL-110 combo and my Dual 505-4 Ortofon OM20 rig. Buy the table and upgrade the stylus. Boom - you have an audiophile grade turntable that will last for decades. Done!

[@nogroove3819]

Hey Andrew. What would you recommend for a semiautomatic turntable. Currently have a Technics sl1400.

[@SeanVedell]

Good morning to you both, and Katie too. Round and round we go. Off to watch that very good looking turntable. DROP THE NEEDLE!!

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Morning Sean!

[@markussorrentino]

Thank you very much for this good review. I am new to this vinyl stuff and looking for a turntable and actually i am really considering to buy this project debut pro, thanks.

[@love2spinvinyl]

I went in to my local hifi shop to order this last year, with a goal to upgrade it. But ended up walking out with the X2 with 2M black and could not be happier.

[@headhunter8106]

Last month I finally got my Pro-Ject Classic Evo. Apparently it had to be a special order because Pro-Ject doesn't send many of these tables to North America (or at least Canada)? So it came directly from Austria where they were still in the process of making the table, so I basically got it almost a year after ordering it. I also had the shop switch out the Ortofon Quintet it came with for the 2M Black (which apparently costs more than what you Americans pay). My previous was the Debut III in piano black that I'd upgraded with an acrylic platter, 2M Blue, etc. which i gifted to my friend who wants to get into records.

[@laika25]

I have the Audio-Technica 120. Is it much different than the 140 you mention over and again?

[@mkornhaber]

Thanks for this review, I was strongly considering buying the Pro and will now start looking at your recommendations!

[@AdrianIII]

I love that little dust thread trailing from the (blue) Ortofon stylus in one of the close-up shots. 🙂

[@michaelbauer6126]

As it turns out, I just picked up a Project X-1 in walnut with the Sumiko Olympia cartridge today. Hooked it up to my vintage Marantz 2216 which I acquired two weeks ago and what a combination! Fleetwood Mac never sounded better on their Rumors album! I’ll enjoy this combo for a while until I take the next upgrade path to the Ortophon 2m black. Thanks to you and Kristi for another informative video and the great advice you both give. Please keep these great videos coming!

[@TaylorWillisGil]

How would you compare the project debut carbon Evo vs the fluance rt85?

[@XCTF1985]

I have the Pro-ject The Classic SB. Great turntable when paired with a solid cartidge (2M Bronze), though I haven't made the switch to a MC cartridge or 2M Black like so many other users have. Plus my wife who generally could care less about turntables loves how it goes with our mid-century look in our living room and I find her using it more often than not as we unwind from a day's work. If it was able to get her hooked on vinyl I consider it a win.

[@richard8417]

Isn’t the sound largely depending on the cartridge? Now equip the Black on this, how does it compare. That would me a more honest comparison.

[@dereknelson7108]

great video as always! I've definitely wondered about this turntable since it announced. Currently I've got the Project Debut Carbon DC with a Sumiko Olympia cartridge and it's been fantastic! Been considering upgrading the turntable at some point but still not quite sure what to upgrade to.

[@thrillcat]

I had an RM1.3 for years, in red, with the stock Sumiko Pearl. I really liked it. Had to take it in and have a new wiring harness pulled through the arm at one point and for whatever reason it was taking way too long. I found a killer price on a red Debut Carbon table with the Speed Box and an acrylic platter so I grabbed it. I’ve since replaced the Ortofon 2M Red with a Hana EL, and I sold the RM1.3 when it came out of the shop. The 1.3, while a cool-looking conversation piece, was starting to feel like having a Patrick Nagel print on the wall. New house, will be building the theater room downstairs soon and have been considering adding a second table down there for vinyl. Satin finish required.

[@christian2123]

I've got a Pro-ject Xpression III, and love it. It came with a 2M Red that I upgraded with a 2M Bronze which was awesome. Recently I changed the cart again as the stylus on the Bronze was past its useful life so I went with a Nagaoka MP-150. 14 years of vinyl fun and never any issues.

[@BirdArvid]

So pleased my vinyl-days are behind me; I had a 5000+ LP-collection with a very expensive turntable-arm-cartridge combo, and it was nice. Having moved across the pond I left it all in Europe and haven't looked back. I used to have the time to tweak stuff, clean LP's etc, but now, I just want good music; something digital gives me. I must admit to feeling bemused by the new LP-wave, whilst I can buy CD's for dirt-cheap! So keep buying digital music pressed on vinyl, folks, while I enjoy it as it was made.

[@SeanVedell]

Amen to that, brother. That’s why eight crates of vinyl has been in my basement since the early 90’s. Progress.

[@michaelwright1602]

I love vinyl, but have to agree with you in regards to the vinyl pressings we are subject too. I have more than a few that honestly sound like crap. That fact really has me thinking of putting the TT up and being done with it, as I stream more than anything, and with the new lossless etc... Yep, rethinking this entire TT thing.

[@CraigFels]

Hi Andrew and Kristi! Are there pros (or cons) of a straight tone arm vs s-shaped?

[@bseven2002]

I have the Pro-ject Debut Carbon Evo, upgraded with the Ortonfon 2M Blue. I think it makes for a great turntable option for my space, and was great for my budget. Would probably look at getting the acrylic platter one day soon as well. Sounds amazing through my Cambridge Audio Evo 150 and Klipsch Heresy IVs.

[@greenman1282]

Kristi's take of "my favorite turntable is the one we use the most" really hit home for me. Great review Andrew and I look forward to the next one!

[@ts5030]

have had mine for 2 weeks so far flawless will start swapping cartridges soon,,,,,,but i love it so far

[@jamiegolden7093]

I'm still running my Pro-ject Debut Carbon with stock Ortofon Red into a Cambridge CP1 photo stage into my Cambridge AXR100. I got one of the last of the older blue plinth and I love the statement that table makes. With a few years on it now, I'm thinking of upgrading the cartridge (2m Blue or Black) and maybe the platter to an acrylic. I also have a U-Turn Orbit custom that I fit with the 2M Red, acrylic platter, and cue lever (I think it's absurd that the cue lever isn't stock, but whatever) on the Ultraviolet (purple) plinth. That build is gorgeous! I have to say that I find the Pro-Ject build quality to be an order of magnitude better than the U-Turn, though. The U-Turn feels a bit cheap and the motor is not loud, but audible where the DC is silent. Thanks for this review - I'm really not sure what value the Pro brings over the Debut Carbon EVO.

[@ibakedit5850]

Great review. I do agree the cartridge makes the most difference. I have a Project Debut Carbon with an acrylic platter...purely for style....I hear no difference in sound between the metal and acrylic platters. I also have a Rega Planar 3....love it....the design/beauty grabbed me over a Project X2.

[@rustinhallberg6063]

Andrew, Great review on this turntable and all the others you have done. My son is getting into vinyl and I have always liked it. My love started back in the late 70's when my mom and dad had a piece of furniture that had a fully automatic turntable in it, 8-track player, AM, FM and quadrophonic speakers... Not sure what that type of speaker set up that is but it did sound great. I recently bought my son a Audio Technica ATLPW30TK... It barely lasted two weeks before the machine would not spin records. Best Buy stood behind it and exchanged it. We have the second one playing through Bose Companion II speakers and it sounds ok for a beginner set up. I tried to get him to play it through my Harmon Kardon HK3250 stereo with reference Infinity 6" bookshelfs, he declined. I hope it lasts, but don't have great expectations for the brand or am I just not spending enough to get reliability? At $299, I thought I was on the high end of budget but maybe not huh.

[@waxworm24]

What do you think about the technics SL1210 GR? Better then 1500? Close to G model? Thanks!

[@Andersljungberg]

In Europe, pro-ject debut pro is delivered with the Pick it PRO cartridge, which has been developed in collaboration with Ortofon

[@thirdkey9]

I have a high gloss red pro-ject debut carbon with an acrylic platter and an ortofon blue cartridge. I love the color, aesthetics & simplicity. Trying out other cartridges and phono preamps was key to tailoring to the sound I wanted as well as use of a schiit EQ. Hours of late night vinyl binging because it delivers the buzz and non audiophile friends so dig the ritual of it all.

[@chasandreae4178]

“Wow and flutter seem made up”. I love vinyl but this really hits home with me, azimuth and other things are tough to navigate. For this reason I am lazy and always have my local dealer set up my table.

[@neilfisher7999]

I own the Fluance RT85. For the price, I think it is very hard to beat. Mine has the Bamboo colored wood plinth, which I think looks fantastic. Definitely the Ortofon 2M Blue cartridge ties this all together very nicely. I looked at the Pro-ject turntables but it appeared I would have to spend a lot more to get anything near what I got with the RT85.

[@Metroidam11]

Great review! Thank you for comparing it to other budget options worth considering, very valuable to a newcomer who is looking to upgrade to the next level on a budget.

[@aussierob7177]

Excellent review, Andrew. After many years of upgrading turntables, tonearms and cartridges, my current system is a Pro-Ject 6 Perspex magnetic suspension Turntable fitted with a Hadcock GH 242 Unipivot tonearm with a Denon DL -301 MK. 2 Moving Coil Cartridge.

[@jameschambers2053]

Your Mods sound sweet! Happy listening

[@arthurlevine8202]

Is there a $200-300 table out there which is a great value. Can an inexpensive table become top notch if it sports a very good carteidge. What's more important, the table or the cartridge?

[@michaelschafer9621]

Time to review a vintage turntable. I "rock" a 70's Dual 1209 and couldn't be happier!

[@CTP8585]

Thank You for the review. Please tell me if this tone arm of the PRO has the capability for VTA adjustment at the base of the tone arm ?? This is my prime requirement for selecting a turntable because I like to change cartridges frequently. I do see many turntables without this feature and just wonder why and how could they leave out this capability in a tone arm.

[@theredon2]

You can adjust the VTA I had it and is a great turntable but if you like to change cartridges go with the technics is a lot easier I had the 1210 gr. I have videos on my channel. I hope it helps.

[@0bvious]

I have the Pro-ject Debut Pro, and love it. But I am Euro based and mine came with the Ortofon Pick-It Pro cartridge (basically an Ortofon Red). I would love to hear someone do a direct listening comparison with these two - quite different - cartridges.

[@fabricehaesendonck196]

me too i love it and i prefered it to my thorens!

[@TemujinScott80]

I love Kristi’s no nonsense direct feedback ! I agree with her … once you get to a certain price point, it’s more about aesthetic

[@MicKav6]

I’m rocking a debut carbon with some little upgrade! You succeed in making me want to upgrade the whole table!. 😅🥳

[@chutgowdingo-loon3212]

Don't have a Project T/T but I do own a JBE Series 3 with an SME 3009 S2 Improved arm, a Grace 707 arm and a Goldring Unipivot arm. Carts are a Nagaoka MP50H, Auddio Technica AT3200XE, a vintage Shure V15 III, Shure M97HE, Garrott P7. Denon DL103 and an Ortofon Blue. I have had the JBE since 1983 - it is a direct drive with the same Panasonic motor as used in the Technics SL1200. Electronics are housed in a separate control box. It was an amzing piece of kit in its' day and can still kick ass today.

[@tomdawson4121]

My dummy vinyl has a black label but I know that some have blue, like yours. Does anyone know why this is? Is the black the newer version? I got mine only a week ago…

[@hxuanpham]

Been rocking a Pro-Ject RPM10.1 with an AT440MLB for several years now and it's been a staple in my system through a number of moves and upgrades. It was a bit of a lucky ebay find and I love the sound of it

[@gmzatx]

Kristi is right again. Once you reach a certain price point they all sound about the same. It’s then all about ascetics. I agree with this as an owner of a Technics 1200GR, it sounds great but all looks amazing

[@heywoodjablome5630]

I like a good direct drive, and hefty base like my Optonica RP-3500.

[@kevinreynolds6792]

Not true. Even focussing on just the cartridge, different cartridges will make a huge difference in sound. A £5000 Rega v a £5000 Linn will sound completely different.

[@thatdudeuhate6649]

@@kevinreynolds6792 it depends on your ears really. My uncle has all that high end shit and I don't hear much of a difference from my thousand dollar setup.

[@Andersljungberg]

Then it depends on what you listen to for vinyl. is it average quality or is it a vinyl record with very high sound quality from eg MFSL or analog Produktions

[@Andersljungberg]

Your preamp probably also has an effect on the sound quality. One for $100 will probably sound significantly better than most that are built into a regular receiver. And one for $500 Will probably sound amazing by comparison . If you have a record player that costs about $500.! Of course you have to compare quality also on your speakers and your amplifier

[@adamlink7561]

Great job guys!! I have the debut carbon evo in walnut paired to the 6000a play. Same Rainier cartridge I use the 6000a’s phono amp. I was glad to hear you feel the same way about the bass with that cartridge. Maybe an upgrade there in the future, but that table is so nice.

[@GrahamAtDesk]

You asked what we've got. Mine's the Pro-ject RPM Genie Mk III, that I bought to see if I fancied listening to my vinyl again. I run it through a Cambridge phono stage, and they sound pretty good. I did upgrade the Ortofon red to a Denon 110 MC cartridge though, and while I was told that was too much cart for the table, it made the world of difference. I'd been getting sibilance (inner groove distortion) off the red's stylus, and the Denon sorted that while adding more clarity and nicer bass. Every year I think about upgrading it, but then I have to admit that it sounds just great as is, and I go back to putting my records on. If I ever do change it I think it'll be so that I can get one with an integral dust cover. The RPM's are nice but the dust covers, not so much.

[@Wolfpack-N]

Andrew how do yu feel about the u-turn vs the RT85 sound?

[@takata98]

I just picked up last week a Project Debut 111 on clearance 50% off. It replaces a Technics SL Q200 which is so old I can't even recall when I purchased it. I realize the new Project Debut Pro is a whole new different beast, but compared to what I had I'm happy to have scored a deal to entice me to dust of my vinyl again. I'm pretty optimistic I'll be impressed sufficiently by the difference in sound to appreciate the savings I made and not regret going all out on higher end turn table or having purchased another toy I won't use as often as I anticipated.

[@Feliciano12v]

Great review, I agree after a certin price point it seems like one is paying more for the feel and aesthetics of a turntable rather than performance. What model Audio Technica cartridge was it that you discussed in the video that had similar sound characteristics of that of a CD with music reproduction? I looked at the description and nada.

[@woodstock480]

I'm curious how the Debut Pro stacks up to the X1, as both are in the same price range. You briefly mentioned the X1 and X2 as other options above the Debut Pro. I had been looking into the X1 and hoping to pick it up on sale when I found a walnut Debut Carbon EVO for $500, just after they had raised it's regular price to $600, so that's what I scooped up.

[@liberwill]

Have a project x2 with ortofon blue cart. Satin white with the platter looks unreal. Sounds epic. I do get a little woofer flutter when turned up. do U have recommendations, I run through MF m5si pre amp which does not have sub sonic filter.

[@mindhead1]

I have had the DC Evo for about a year and am getting ready to upgrade to a Moonstone stylus. It’s the first TT I’ve owned in 35 years and I’m very happy with it.

[@johncfarley]

I recently purchased the Debut PRO and was considering replacing the stock platter with the Acryl IT platter. Would this be considered an upgrade or is the stock platter of better quality? Thanks

[@michaelb9664]

The stock platter is unique to the Pro and is an upgrade over the acrylic. If you buy the Puck Pro to use with your current platter that’s all you need to do regarding platter upgrades, unless you want to add the aluminium sub platter - but even that is debatable regarding improvement vs cost.

[@davidjosias7486]

Thanks for the review! I'm really curious as to why Pro-next fitted the Pro with the Sumiko Rainer? I have a debut carbon Evo that came with the same cartridge. I get that the tone arm is an upgrade, but for the price I would have wanted an upgraded cartridge. About to replace my Rainer cartridge to the Moonstone and can't wait to hear the difference in the Evo! BTW, I have a very simple setup of Evo direct to Klipsch Fives!

[@mike_lowndes]

Its a deal with the US distributor who carries both brands. In UK/EU Pro-ject come with Ortofon (now tweaked and rebadged as Pick-it).

[@TheLyleB]

Speaking as someone who got an RT85 a couple of months ago I enjoyed this review a great deal. :)

[@KeviNissan]

Very good vid! It is for Al personal taste. Ik have the Pro-Ject vte standard with the the “OM 10” but i have it updated with the OM20. it sounds good, but not perfect. So I am looking for an horizontal player and considering the Debut Pro. it’s a nice looking player

[@vinylrules4838]

I had a friend try out this turntable with the same cartridge on his vintage Micro Seiki turntable he recently purchased. The Micro Seiki won in the shootout.

[@quikspecv4d]

My Debut Carbon Evo came with that Rainier cartridge and I didn’t like the rolled off highs or the slightly sloppy bass. I transferred my 2M blue from my old turntable to the Evo and was much happier. Since then I upgraded again to the 2M bronze and I couldn’t be happier. Both the 2M blue and bronze pair great with it and I imagine the same for the Pro.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Thanks for the tip! The Rainier is the weak link in this package IMHO. Glad you found a combo that works for you!

[@gianlusc]

I own a Pro-Ject 2xperience with a Goldring 1006 cartridge and I love them both 😄

[@mbclaxton78]

Good thing about the Sumiko Ranier: you can easily upgrade the stylus to their Olympia & Moonstone options without the need to get a new cartridge.

[@infinite1der]

I've had a Pro-ject Debut III ( with the Pro-ject S-box2 preamp) for a WHILE now. I'd put myself into the 'casual vinyl listener' catagory. The Debut III has been good enough for us. I have upgraded the cartridge to the 2M Blue, which made an incredible difference. Also, I actually like how "manual" this turntable is: no auto return/start/stop. I enjoy that interaction.

[@BigmacMcC]

My good wife surprised me with a debut carbon back in about 2013. Since then , I've just upgraded amp (living room av reciever from onkyo) phono preamp, re coned my original 1990's warfdale diamond 9.1's and Changed cartridge, oh and put on a Cork slipmat .... every few Xmas she asks if I'd like to upgrade the table.. but i really don't need to... only thing I'm tempted by is swapping out preamp for a tube preamp.

[@michaeldorman2788]

I enjoy your reviews. Well articulated and you hit every point. My only criticism on this one is I don’t think it is a fair comparison. The stock cartridge in the project is not in the same league as a 2m black. I believe a turntable’s ability to play well is 75% cartridge based. The other 25% matters but it’s mostly the cartridge. As for the Fluance, it is maxed out as far as upgrades. The 2m blue is also better that the project’s stock cartridge. But the project allows for way better upgrades. Put the 2m black on the project and compare.

[@rwlewko]

To add to what you said, the tonearm on the Pro has VTA and azimuth adjustments which I'm sure that the Fluance lacks. The Pro can be upgraded with a heavier platter, an aluminum sub platter and bearing, an external power supply whereas the Fluance with the 2m black is maxed out. Further, I wouldn't even try to put a MC cartridge on the Fluance, whereas I think the Debut Pro would handle something like the Sumiko Blue Point 3. Now compare the Pro with the Sumiko to the Fluance!!! No contest!!! To summarize, the Debut Pro has lots of room to upgrade whereas the Fluance is maxed out.

[@Audiorevue]

well a lot of the pros that you mentioned in regards to it sound quality is exactly why I enjoy project turntables. they have a very easy forgiving sound and you get the sense that you can basically throw on anything regardless of artists or genre and have it sound good and be enjoyable. couple of years ago I dabbled in a rega P3 and it sounded fantastic, it sounded more precise ,more focused ,more airy and basically whatever subjective attribute you would like to put to it it had in comparison. although I found over time the more and more I listen to it the more I realize that it sounded less like I was listening to records and more like I was listening to CDs.

[@siguz6070]

I own and love the Pro-Ject Xtension 12 turntable in the olive veneer. Its a bit pricy at 4000 euro list price, and it's huge just barely fitting on top of my rack, but other than that there's really nothing you can hold against it. Everything about it screams quality, from the extremly heavy plinth sitting on the magnet dampening feet, to the huge machined aluminium platter, the 12 inch tonearm, the tight build tolerances. You can't even see it's turned on, because the platter is so perfectly centered you can't see it moving. It's paired with the Ortofon quintet black S cartridge and an entry level musical fidelity phono pre (soon to be upgraded). Sonicly it performes really well with a very quiet background, next to no surface noise and great body and prat. Dynamics and detail are ok, but I'm waiting on what my next phono pre will bring... I find it really cool how pro-ject managed to being at the one hand very successfull in the entry level market, while at the other hand having pretty expenive tables which are still quite respected and get good reviews.

[@berrylinders7600]

I have a project 6.9 turntable with a sumiko mc Blue Point and a clearaudio pre amp and i really love this piayer, it's paired with a Marantz sr 7015 and kef Q950 front speakers, in my opinion could'n be better but perhaps Andrew has another opinion, i appreciate your reviews

[@jimlionberger685]

I have the Debut Carbon DC but have upgraded the sub-platter, replaced the standard platter with their acrylic one, and moved to the Ortofon Bronze cart. And having done such, I love it! I guess I might be missing something, but when played through a Pro-Ject Phono Box S2 Ultra into my Musical Fidelity M5si (thank you, Andrew) and then 1984 Klipsch Cornwalls I could not be happier! I expect I have really “perfumed the pig” with the cartridge exceeding the initial price of the table, but it works. In my mind I’d have to spend $2,000+ to upgrade, and that does not seem worth it. Keep up the good video work!

[@KristiWright]

Thanks, Jim!

[@stephenbrockway5899]

When you wear out your Bronze you can replace it with a Black stylus. They both use the same pickup...no need to buy a whole new cartridge.

[@jimlionberger685]

@@stephenbrockway5899 thanks!

[@conradoplano]

the project debut pro is a great option for someone getting into turntables that does not want a low-end turntable, also does not want to spend too much money but would like to upgrade later to get to the levels of an X1. At least in Europe with its price and cartridge. That is how I see it, and why I bought one myself last month. And I am loving it! Thanks for the effort on your videos, really enjoy them

[@RUfromthe40s]

there was a turntable sold by technics in late 80´s early 90´s full automatic quatrz that was sold for around 100€ depending on the store ,they tested it with a project that cost today a bit more than a 1000€´s that in every specification is better as an example where is the ground wire , don´t have doesn´t need it but it makes a co nstant huming behind the sound and in the music less parts of the record or inbetween songs is more heardable but it´s on the music and this technics it´s an old one with that t4p system by technics released in late 70´s that was also used in pioneer and grundig turntables mostly made of plastic and with electronic speed selector so change the belt to change speed with our hands only increases distortion and noise ,the turntable you talk about i wouldn´t recomend it to my worst enemy, that´s how people say "the vinil sounds much worse than a cd" wich is wrong but beware i saw lots and lot´s of old turntables being sold on ebay for price all above 1.000€ ´s and they are missing parts and important ones like what makes the nedle ride aligned with the grooves on the vinil , so buy old but read about it first there´s lots of sites with info from most of the equipment sold till today and also blogs of the speciality where people with lots of experience can explain about what to look for, and the reords sold today are much worse quality than the ones sold in the past i bought two records in early setember they do make noise but i put to play some 80´s and 70´s records that were there stored first beneath my main equipment and they don´t make any noise but my companion like the So LP from Peter Gabriel , i have all of his lp´s till "So" and this one was bought before summer and it was released by a big company and even was those 180 grams records and in the same place doesn´t make a sigle noise, some i bought even had bit´s of paper that fall of the center label when cutted, some people say they like the noise inbetween tracks and over the music like frying batatos or making french fries well those i throw to the garbage ,regards

[@TheKizersoze13]

I agree. I was going to buy this as a living room turntable because of the looks and end up upgrading some of the components down the line.

[@AdrianIII]

Getting your music from vinyl records is like photography using film. Some like them both, despite their limitations.

[@coolpkduck]

Rega P8 and Clearaudio are the one I want to get. Just because it is beautiful. I would have stay with U-Turn (gen 1) if I can fit other styles on it.

[@bassmaestro1628]

I'm pretty sure we have the one Kristi mentioned. My wife and I got the Pro Ject Debut Carbon EVO in satin green. Gorgeous turntable and it sounds great in our space.

[@warrensparkes1223]

nice review...waiting on your Dual review!!

[@pierre-philippejulien6298]

I can’t wait for the McIntosh review Andrew

[@PAULGRILL]

I wanted to go for a X2 but they had issues in their supply chain and couldn‘t sell them at the time. Then I went for a Gold Note Valore 425 Lite which I paired with an Audio Technica AT-VM95SH cartridge and I couldn‘t be happier! Please consider Gold Note for a review 😉🙋🏻‍♂️

[@robcurrie1826]

Fantastic review, it’s so hard to research, the choices seem endless. I have a Pioneer PL-100 that I’ve owned for 40 ish years.. time for an upgrade? 😁✌️❤️🇦🇺

[@marcusgibbons3719]

I brought project x1 over a year ago I love it the wood finish is lovely that only have pre aligned cartridge would love to have the order form black on it we’ll have to do that at some point

[@BO-kh1iz]

What you said about the tonearms of the pro-ject Pro, X1 and X2 is not correct. The X1 and Debut Pro share the same 8.6 inch one, the X2 has a 9 inch tonearm.

[@deathinsight]

This is an amazing review! I do want to point out one thing: even though price of the LP 140 with the 2M black is comparable in price initially, I can't help but think about the cost of replacing that stylus to maintain that setup... almost $600 every time it needs to be replaced. My Pro-Ject sounds amazing, but you are only replacing a $100 (2M Red) or $200 (if you upgrade to a 2M blue) to maintain the setup.

[@jasonmccollum5411]

I have the Pro-Ject Debut Carbon. Over time, I've upgraded a few parts. I swapped the 2M Red for the 2M Blue. Changed the aluminum platter for the Pro-Ject acrylic platter along with the replacing the plastic sub-platter to the Pro-Ject aluminum sub-platter. Lastly, I removed the stock feet and upgraded to the MNPCTech's aluminum isolation feet with sorbothane bushings.

[@Sethy22]

That's an investment. Was it worth it?

[@jasonmccollum5411]

@@Sethy22 It was an investment over a 3 to 4-year time frame. To me, it was worth it.

[@Sethy22]

Right on. I've bought the carbon esprit SB a couple of years ago. That one came with the acrylic platter & ortofon red included. I've since swapped the red for the black and it sounds fantastic. I'm wondering how much of a change the Alu Sub-platter would do? They are expensive.

[@jasonmccollum5411]

@@Sethy22 You would use the same sub-platter as mine. I paid $159. According to Pro-Ject, it will dampen unwanted noice and resonance while improving speed accuracy.

[@thomasetesta5641]

Hey Joe; Is Blue stylus worth the upgrade over the base Red that these tables come with like mine??

[@djadjacent1857]

I have a Pro-ject Debut Carbon EVO with a Moonstone cartridge. I really love it.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

That's awesome!

[@frankbernharduebler]

I also did buy the Debut Carbon Evo last summer, weeks before the Pro was announced. I believe Kristi was referring to the Carbon Evo too, when she was talking about the color green she loved. I am not too mad about the Pro coming out shortly after my purchase. I think the Evo is really good value for the money.