Pro-Ject Debut Carbon Evo - Back By Popular Demand

We were suitably impressed by the Applause Award-winning Pro-Ject Debut Carbon Evo turntable, and so were a little confused when it disappeared from UK shelves. However, the budget deck has returned and is even better value than before.

When the Debut Carbon Evo was launched in 2020, it had a recommended ticket price of £499, but this has been reduced to £449, which is remarkable given the shenanigans of the past five years.

We are informed that strong retailer and customer feedback indicated an insatiable appetite for a turntable of this nature at this price point, leading to its eventual reintroduction in a new satin black colour.

When we spent time with the original, we noted it "majors on all the most important aspects of vinyl – passion, emotion and fun, while stating it "sounds closer to a mid-level turntable than a super-budget one". 

While the satin black finish is new, the European-built Debut Carbon Evo turntable retains its 8.6-inch one-piece carbon fibre tonearm that Pro-Ject claims delivers improved rigidity and enhanced tracking performance, loaded with a pre-fitted Ortofon 2M Red cartridge with elliptical diamond stylus, which is £85 if bought separately. Then you'd still have to fit and align it yourself.

A TPE-damped, heavy steel platter construction aims to reduce unwanted vibration during playback. The precision belt drive is connected to electronic speed control, allowing for seamless switching between 33, 45, and 78 RPM speeds. Meanwhile, the heavy MDF chassis is designed to provide further resonance control and stability.

Connectivity is provided via a supplied semi-symmetrical phono cable featuring metal connectors and gold-plated RCA outputs. Height-adjustable metal feet and a dust cover complete the keenly-priced package.

We were certain that the Debut Carbon Evo would win many fans thanks to its "self-assured sound with no nasties, allied to an easy-going yet engaging personality," and it appears we were right on the money.

The satin black Pro-Ject Debut Carbon Evo turntable is available in the UK, priced at £449. While we await to hear if it returns elsewhere, the Debut Evo 2 remains available, costing £599 | A$1,299 | US$699 | €699.

For more information visit Pro-Ject