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Pro-Ject X1 B Turntable Review: A True Balanced Masterpiece

Pro-Ject X1 B Turntable Review: A True Balanced Masterpiece

In this Pro-Ject X1 B Turntable review, we delve into a product that exemplifies the pinnacle of vinyl playback technology. As audiophiles and hi-fi enthusiasts, we at The Audio Tailor are always on the lookout for equipment that pushes the boundaries of analogue audio reproduction. The X1 B from Pro-Ject not only meets but exceeds our expectations, offering a true balanced connection that elevates the vinyl listening experience to new heights.

Unveiling the Pro-Ject X1 B: A Symphony of Engineering

The Pro-Ject X1 B is not just another turntable; it's a meticulously crafted instrument designed to extract every nuance from your cherished vinyl collection. Building upon the success of its predecessors, this model introduces the game-changing True Balanced connection, a feature that audiophiles have long dreamed of in a turntable at this price point.

True Balanced Connection: The Heart of Clarity

At the core of the X1 B's innovation is its True Balanced connection. This feature, typically reserved for high-end professional audio equipment, now graces the home listening environment. When paired with a moving coil cartridge, a 5-pin mini XLR cable, and connected to a Pro-Ject 'True Balanced' phono stage, the X1 B delivers audio that is astonishingly pure and precise.

The balanced connection's ability to reject noise and interference is particularly crucial in the low-level signals produced by a turntable cartridge. By utilising the full potential of the cartridge's naturally balanced output, the X1 B preserves the integrity of the audio signal, resulting in a listening experience that's notably cleaner and more detailed than what traditional single-ended connections can offer.

Chassis and Motor: The Foundation of Stability

The X1 B's chassis is a testament to Pro-Ject's commitment to quality. Crafted from MDF and finished with eight layers of hand-polished paint, it not only looks stunning but also provides a solid, resonance-free base for the turntable's critical components.

The sophisticated DC/AC generator board and speed control system deliver clean, stable power to the motor. This motor is then decoupled from the main plinth using an advanced suspension system, effectively isolating any potential vibrations from reaching the tonearm and chassis. The result is a turntable that operates with remarkable quietness and stability.

Platter and Sub-platter: Precision in Motion

The X1 B features a heavy, non-resonant acrylic platter that weighs in at a substantial 1.5 kg. This platter is driven by a sub-platter system and a premium-grade main bearing, ensuring rotation that's as smooth as silk. The combination of these elements creates the perfect platform for your vinyl, guaranteeing consistent performance and sonic fidelity.

Tonearm Excellence: Carbon/Alu Sandwich Construction

The 8.6" tonearm is a marvel of engineering, utilizing a carbon/aluminium sandwich construction that offers incredible stiffness and lightness. This design significantly reduces the tonearm's susceptibility to external vibrations and resonances. The one-piece construction, complete with an integrated headshell, further enhances its performance.

Audiophiles will appreciate the ability to adjust both azimuth and VTA, allowing for precise cartridge alignment and optimisation. The TPE-damped counterweight is the cherry on top, further reducing unwanted resonances in the cartridge-tonearm interface.

Pick it PRO B Cartridge: Balanced Perfection

The X1 B comes pre-fitted with the Pick it PRO B cartridge, a moving magnet design specifically engineered for balanced signal transmission. This cartridge is the perfect match for the turntable's True Balanced capabilities, ensuring that you can take full advantage of the X1 B's sonic potential right out of the box.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • True Balanced connection for superior noise rejection and audio purity
  • High-quality MDF chassis with luxurious finish
  • Sophisticated motor decoupling system for minimal vibration
  • Heavy acrylic platter for stable rotation and improved sound
  • Carbon/aluminium tonearm with adjustable azimuth and VTA
  • Pre-fitted Pick it PRO B cartridge optimised for balanced operation
  • Electronic speed control for 33, 45, and 78 RPM
  • Height-adjustable, damped aluminium feet for perfect levelling

Cons:

  • Premium features may be overkill for casual listeners
  • Requires balanced phono preamp for full potential (but still excellent with standard setups)
  • Higher price point compared to entry-level turntables

The Listening Experience: A Vinyl Renaissance

Setting up the Pro-Ject X1 B in our listening room was a moment of anticipation. As the stylus touched down on a well-worn copy of Pink Floyd's "Dark Side of the Moon," the transformation was immediate and profound. The balanced connection revealed layers of detail we hadn't previously discerned, with each instrument occupying its own space in a expansive soundstage.

The stability of the platter and the precision of the tonearm were evident in the rock-solid imaging and timing. Bass notes had a newfound authority and definition, while high frequencies sparkled with a natural airiness free from any hint of harshness.

Moving to jazz, Miles Davis's "Kind of Blue" showcased the X1 B's ability to capture the intimate nuances of acoustic instruments. The breathy texture of the trumpet and the subtle brush work on the drums were rendered with startling realism, placing the listener in the recording studio.

For those who appreciate the warmth and organic nature of vinyl but crave the clarity and precision often associated with digital sources, the Pro-Ject X1 B offers the best of both worlds. It manages to preserve the analogue magic while lifting the veil that often obscures the finer details in vinyl playback.

Who Is the Pro-Ject X1 B For?

The Pro-Ject X1 B is ideal for the discerning audiophile who demands the utmost from their vinyl playback system. It's perfect for those who:

  • Are looking to upgrade from a entry-level or mid-range turntable
  • Appreciate the benefits of balanced audio connections
  • Have a high-quality phono preamp and amplification system
  • Own a cherished vinyl collection that deserves the best possible playback
  • Enjoy tweaking and optimising their audio setup

While the X1 B is a significant investment, it represents exceptional value for the level of performance it offers. It's a turntable that will continue to reveal new aspects of your music collection for years to come.

Setting Up Your Pro-Ject X1 B

To get the most out of your Pro-Ject X1 B, proper setup is crucial. While the turntable comes pre-calibrated, fine-tuning to your specific environment can yield even better results. Our team at The Audio Tailor is always available to provide guidance on optimal setup procedures, including:

  • Proper levelling using the adjustable feet
  • Fine-tuning cartridge alignment and tracking force
  • Selecting the right phono preamp to complement the X1 B's balanced output

Don't hesitate to reach out to us for personalised advice on integrating the X1 B into your existing system or building a new setup around this exceptional turntable.

Pro-Ject - X1 B - Turntable

Original price $2,049.00 - Original price $2,049.00
Original price
$2,049.00
$2,049.00 - $2,049.00
Current price $2,049.00
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