Pro-Ject - Automat A2 - Automatic Turntable Review: Effortless Vinyl Performance

Welcome to our Pro-Ject - Automat A2 - Automatic Turntable Review, where we explore how this fully mechanical automatic turntable delivers a seamless vinyl experience for enthusiasts and newcomers alike. Combining German design heritage with Pro-Ject’s latest innovations, the A2 redefines what an automatic turntable can achieve in sound quality, ease of use and reliability.
Design & Build Quality
From its luxurious 8-layer matt black finish on a heavy MDF chassis to the precision-engineered aluminium die-cast sub-chassis, the A2 exudes craftsmanship. The floating sub-chassis architecture decouples critical elements—platter bearing, tonearm and drive motor—minimising resonances and external vibrations. You’ll also appreciate the carbon fibre reinforced anti-magnetic headshell, marrying rigidity and ultralight mass for perfect synergy with the 8.3" aluminium tonearm.

Key Features & Technical Highlights
- Fully Mechanical Automatic Operation: Select 33, 45 or 78 RPM, press Start and the tonearm glides to the lead-in groove. At the end, it returns and shuts off the motor, all without electronics that might colour the sound.
- Ortofon 2M Red: This moving-magnet cartridge delivers open dynamics and musical warmth. (*US version ships with Sumiko Rainier.)
- Ultra-Light-Mass Tonearm: An 8.3" tube with increased diameter and a 4-pin-point cardanic bearing ensures minimal friction, exceptional tracking precision and fine microdynamics.
- Floating Sub-Chassis: Isolates platter, tonearm and motor on a separate aluminium die-cast platform to reduce unwanted resonance.
- Damped Aluminium Platter: Precision-balanced with an internal damping ring for minimal wow & flutter (33 RPM ±0.14%; 45 RPM ±0.12%).
- Massless Tracking Force Adjustment: Dial-in precise tracking force directly at the tonearm bearing centre and adjust spring-based anti-skating on the fly.
- Connect It E RCA Cable: Semi-balanced, low-capacitance phono cable with superior shielding for clean signal transfer.

Sound Performance: Detail, Dynamics & Warmth
The synergy between the ultra-light tonearm and the Ortofon 2M Red cartridge brings remarkable transient response and musicality. You’ll hear refined microdetail in vocals and instruments, an expansive soundstage and a natural midrange warmth that vinyl lovers crave. The fully mechanical drive ensures no electronic artefacts, so each groove is rendered with clarity and authority—perfect for jazz cymbals, classical strings or rock bass lines.
Who Should Consider the A2?
If you seek the convenience of a fully automatic turntable without compromising on audiophile-grade performance, the A2 is for you. Ideal for busy enthusiasts who want “drop and play” simplicity, collectors of 7" singles and 78 RPM shellacs, and anyone who values German engineering and refined design. Ready to elevate your vinyl setup? Explore the Pro-Ject – Automat A2 – Automatic Turntable on our site or speak with our team about pairing it with the perfect phono stage.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Seamless mechanical automation—no electronic interference with the signal path
- 33/45/78 RPM at the push of a button; no belt repositioning
- Heavy MDF chassis and floating sub-chassis for superb resonance control
- Ultra-light-mass tonearm and Ortofon 2M Red cartridge deliver dynamic, warm sound
- Massless tracking force adjustment and precise anti-skating dial
- High-quality Connect It E semi-balanced phono cable included
- Handmade in Germany with Pro-Ject’s 50-year automatic lineage
Cons
- Limited to moving-magnet cartridges—MC users will need another deck
- Relatively substantial chassis weight needs a sturdy stand
- No optional colour finishes beyond matt black
Why the Pro-Ject A2 Deserves Your Attention
The Pro-Ject – Automat A2 – Automatic Turntable sets a new benchmark for effortless, high-fidelity vinyl playback. Mechanical precision, premium materials and an audiophile-tuned cartridge make it a standout in its class. Whether you’re rediscovering shellacs at 78 RPM or spinning modern LPs, the A2 ensures every record plays exactly as the artist intended.
Ready to experience the A2? Call our specialists on 1300 308 711 or email sales@theaudiotailor.com.au to discuss your setup. At our team, we tailor solutions to your space and budget—let’s get your vinyl collection sounding its best!