Pro-Ject X2 B Turntable With Balanced Output Released
Pro-Ject is expanding its True Balanced Connection collection with the X2 B turntable featuring balanced mini-XLR output.
Pro-Ject's X2 B is touted as a premium record player featuring a fully balanced mini-XLR output, offering a symmetrical connection to phono stages featuring this type of input. But, of course, Pro-Ject says that its recently announced Phono Box S3 B or Phono Box DS3 B phono stages are perfect candidates.
The X2 B comes with an Ortofon Quintet Red moving coil cartridge, Connect-IT E cables and a balanced output option for what is promised to be class-leading convenience and sonic superiority.
Structurally the X2 B is supported by its large, CNC machined MDF chassis, sat upon three vibration-absorbing feet, reducing unwanted resonances to almost imperceptible levels.
Inside, it houses a sophisticated DC/AC generator board which, combined with the convenient speed control board (for automatic switching between 33 and 45 RPM as well as offering support for 78 RPM), delivers clean and stable power to the silent motor system, says Pro-Ject. For even further improved performance, the motor is carefully balanced and suspended on a precision-tuned TPE belt, effectively decoupling the motor from the main plinth.
In the X2 B, the motor drives a heavy, non-resonant 30mm 2kg Acryl platter via a sub-platter drive system and a premium grade main bearing for liquid-smooth rotation. Wow and flutter measurements are given as 33: ±0.12% / 45: ±0.10%, while speed drift is stated as 33: ±0.25% / 45: ±0.20%.
The X2 B also benefits from a one-piece Carbon/Alu tonearm with an integrated headshell. This 9-inch (230mm effective arm length, 13.5g effective mass, 18mm overhang) carbon/aluminium sandwich tonearm design is incredibly light and stiff, with improved resistance to external interference and better internal damping. Additionally, it is supplied with a TPE-damped counterweight, further reducing cartridge/ tonearm resonances.
The tonearm can also be adjusted for accurate azimuth and VTA settings, allowing vinylistas to fine-tune their sound.
The Pro-Ject X2 B has an MSRP of $1,699 and is available in four finishes; a premium walnut wood veneer, a luxurious black eight-layer high gloss paint, or black or white eight-layer hand-polished satin paint.
Visit Pro-Ject Audio Systems for more information
Jay Garrett
StereoNET’s resident rock star, bass player, and gadget junkie. His passion for gadgets and Hi-Fi is second only to being a touring musician.
Posted in:Hi-Fi
Tags: pro-ject mcintosh sumiko
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