Pro-Ject
{{Short description |Austrian audio equipment manufacturer}}
{{About|the audio electronics brand|the airplane|Pro-Design Pro-Ject|other uses|project (disambiguation)}}
{{Infobox company
| name = Pro-Ject Audio Systems
| logo = PJ-Audio-Systems-Logo-black.jpg
| logo_size = 200px
| type = Privately held company
| foundation = {{start date and age|1991}}
| location = Mistelbach, Lower Austria, Austria
| key_people = Heinz Lichtenegger (founder and director)
| industry = Electronics
| products = Hi-fi equipment, Turntables
| num_employees = approx. 300
| revenue = unknown
| homepage = {{URL|project-audio.com}}
}}
File:Pro-Ject Debut-EVO (Yellow-Box).jpg
Pro-Ject Audio Systems is a manufacturer of audiophile equipment, founded in 1991 by Heinz Lichtenegger and located in Mistelbach, Austria.{{cite web |url=http://www.project-audio.com/inhalt/en/pdf/complete.pdf |title=Go Analogue! in the third {{notatypo|millenium}} |date= |access-date=23 September 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160303171756/http://www.project-audio.com/inhalt/en/pdf/complete.pdf |archive-date=3 March 2016 |url-status=dead }}{{cite web |url=http://project-audio.com/main.php?info=headquarter&cat=default&lang=en |title=Pro-ject Audio Systems |access-date=23 April 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180628153448/http://www.project-audio.com/main.php?info=headquarter&cat=default&lang=en |archive-date=28 June 2018 |url-status=dead }} Pro-Ject Audio Systems designs the products in Austria and produces them in plants located in Germany, Czech Republic and Slovakia.
Its product range includes a family of turntables, which are often quoted as reference entry-level models.{{cite web | url = http://www.audiotools.com/lp_g.html | title = Currently active record player manufacturers. G to Q | access-date = 2024-11-26 | website = Audiotools.com }}{{cite web|url=http://www.vinylengine.com/library/pro-ject.shtml |title=Pro-ject Owners Manuals, Service Manuals, Schematics, Free Download | publisher=Vinyl Engine |date= |access-date=23 September 2010}} The Pro-Ject Debut turntable, introduced in 1999, played a pivotal role in revitalizing interest in vinyl records (Phonograph record) by offering high-quality analog playback at an affordable price point, making quality turntables accessible to a broader audience.{{cite web | url = https://www.audioaffair.co.uk/blog/history-of-the-pro-ject-debut-a-budget-classic/ | title = History of the Pro-Ject Debut a Budget Classic | author = Bob | date = 2017-04-27 | access-date = 2024-12-01 | website = audio affair}}
Since 2015 Pro-Ject has released limited edition Artist Collection{{cite web | url = https://www.project-audio.com/en/turntables/| title = Pro-Ject TURNTABLES / Artist Collection | access-date = 2024-11-26 | website = project-audio.com| date = 7 June 2021 }} turntables in cooperation with the Beatles, The Rolling Stones, Metallica, Hans Theessink, Parov Stelar, and the Vienna Philharmonic.{{cite web | url = https://www.project-audio.com/en/turntables/| title = Plattenspieler der Extraklasse: The Classic Reference | date = 2024-10-30 | access-date = 2024-11-26 | website = connect.de}}
They also manufactures a range of micro Hi-Fi components such as Amps, CD Transports, Phono Stages, Streaming Devices, Loudspeakers and more.{{cite web |url=http://www.box-designs.com/main.php?info=source&cat=source&lang=en |title=Box Design by Pro-Ject Audio Systems |website=Box-designs.com |date=23 August 2016 |access-date=10 September 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180625161840/http://www.box-designs.com/main.php?info=source&cat=source&lang=en |archive-date=25 June 2018 |url-status=dead }}{{cite web|last=Reina |first=Robert J. |url=http://stereophile.com/turntables/pro-ject_debut_iii_record_player/ |title=Pro-Ject Debut III record player |work=Stereophile |date = February 2010|access-date=23 September 2010}}{{cite web|last=Gold |first=Phil |url=http://www.enjoythemusic.com/magazine/equipment/0804/projectspeedbox.htm |title=Entry Level Vinyl Spinner... Pro-Ject 1 Xpression And Speed Box |publisher=Enjoythemusic.com |date=April 2004 |access-date=23 September 2010}}{{cite web |last=Price |first=David |url=http://www.hi-fiworld.co.uk/hfw/featureshtml/turntableroundup.html |title=VINYL TO GO! |work=Hi-fi World |date=January 1998 |access-date=23 September 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100920131502/http://hi-fiworld.co.uk/hfw/featureshtml/turntableroundup.html |archive-date=20 September 2010 |url-status=dead }}
Pro-Ject Audio Systems is a division of Audio Tuning,https://www.audiotuning.com that also owns Musical Fidelity,https://www.musicalfidelity.com REKKORD AUDIOhttps://www.rekkord-audio.com and TONE Factory.https://www.tone-factory.com
History
Pro-Ject founder Heinz Lichtenegger began producing and selling turntables under this brand name in 1991. The Pro-Ject 1, launched in 1991, marked the company's entry into the turntable market. Developed by founder Heinz Lichtenegger, this deck was essentially a modified version of the Tesla NC-500, a turntable produced in the Czech Republic. By enhancing the design with improved materials and engineering, Pro-Ject created an affordable yet high-quality turntable that laid the foundation for its future success.{{cite web | url = https://www.whathifi.com/features/12-of-the-best-pro-ject-turntables-of-all-time | title = 12 of the best Pro-Ject turntables of all time | author = Joe Cox | date = 2023-09-23 | access-date = 2024-12-01 | website = WHAT HI*FI?}}
=Timeline=
Significant events in the history of Pro-Ject Audio Systems{{cite web | url = https://www.stereoindex.com/audio/pro-ject-audio-systems/ | title = Pro-Ject Audio Systems | author = Marcus Carlsen| date = 2024-02-08 | access-date = 2024-12-09 | website = Stereoindex}} {{cite web | url = https://hifihalloffame.com/businesses/pro-ject-audio-systems/ | title = Hi-Fi Hall of Fame - Business Inductee - Pro-Ject Audio Systems| author = | date = 2023 | access-date = 2024-12-09 | website = Hi-Fi Hall Of Fame}}
=1991 – Foundation=
Heinz Lichtenegger founded Pro-Ject Audio Systems and launched the first turntable, the Pro-Ject 1. The consortium of the most experienced hi-fi editors within the Expert Imaging and Sound Association EISA has chosen the Pro-Ject 1 for an award in the category ‘Best Buy Turntable’. {{cite web | url = https://www.audiotra.de/news/eisa-awards-fuer-pro-ject | title = EISA-Awards for Pro-Ject | author = Atr| date = 2019-08-19 | access-date = 2024-12-09 | language = german | website = Atr – Lust auf Hifi | publisher = ATR – Audio Trade}}
=1993 – Partnership=
After the collapse of the Iron Curtain, Pro-Ject partnered with a former Tesla factory in the Czech Republic, which continues to produce turntables for Pro-Ject.
=1994 – Pro-Ject 6=
Introduction of the first high-end turntable, the Pro-Ject 6.
=1999 – Debut Series=
Launch of the Debut turntable, aiming to make hi-fi products more accessible; it has sold nearly one million units to date.{{cite web | url = https://www.whathifi.com/reviews/pro-ject-debut-pro | title = Pro-Ject Debut Pro review | author = What Hi-Fi? | date = 2023-10-16 | access-date = 2024-12-09 | website = What Hi-Fi}}
=2000 – New Factories=
To support electronics production, Pro-Ject established new partnerships in the Czech Republic and Slovakia.
=2007 – Digital Entry=
Introduction of the first digital products: Pre Box, Amp Box, and DAC Box.
=Since 2015 – Artist Collection=
Collaboration with artists such as Parov Stelar, The Beatles, Metallica and The Rolling Stones to create special edition turntables.
=2017 – Headquarters=
Opening of new headquarters in Lower Austria, including offices, logistics center, administration, and R&D facilities.
=2021 – 30th Anniversary=
Celebration marked by the release of the Debut PRO turntable.
=2023 – EVO Tonearms=
Release of 24 different high-precision tonearms, handmade in Europe.
=2024 – Current Status=
Pro-Ject operates in over 80 countries with more than 5,000 dealers, employing over 500 people across four factories, and has received numerous international awards, including EISA and Red Dot Design Awards. {{cite web | url = https://www.project-audio.com/en/company/ | title = Company history – From the Beginning | website = Pro-Ject| date = 15 June 2021 }}
Pro-Ject Turntables in Film-Sets
Pro-Ject turntables have made notable appearances in various films, often serving as key elements in set designs. These placements underscore a cultural significance and aesthetic appeal of turntables in contemporary movies.{{cite web | url = https://www.whathifi.com/features/21-our-favourite-turntable-cameos-in-films-and-tv-shows | title = 21 of our favourite turntable cameos in films and TV shows | author = Kashfia Kabir | date = 2018-10-25 | access-date = 2024-12-04 | website = WHAT HI*FI}} For instance, the Pro-Ject Debut Carbon Line was featured in the film A Bigger Splash (2015 film){{cite web | url = https://www.instagram.com/reel/C3haynxO6Lo/ | title = Pro-Ject on Movie-Set: A bigger splash | author = Reel by projectaudiosystems | date = 2024-02-19 | access-date = 2024-12-04 | website = Instagram}} for the authentic portrayal of a character with a passion for vinyl records. It also appeared in the Music video of the Song “Giorgio by Moroder” by Daft Punk.{{cite web | url = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zhl-Cs1-sG4 | title = Daft Punk - Giorgio by Moroder (Official Audio) | author = Daft Punk| date = 2014-02-24 | access-date = 2024-12-04 | website = YouTube }} Several Pro-Ject turntable models appeared in Do Not Disturb (2014 film),{{cite web | url = https://www.instagram.com/reel/C3Umh-dsO9v/ | title = Pro-Ject on Movie-Set: Do not disturb | author = Reel by projectaudiosystems | date = 2024-02-14 | access-date = 2024-12-04 | website =Instagram }} Westworld (TV series), Season 4,{{cite web | url = https://www.instagram.com/reel/C1SVeUbLqtk| title = Pro-Ject on Movie-Set: Westworld (TV Series), Season 4 | author = Reel by projectaudiosystems| date = 2024-03-13 | access-date = 2024-12-04 | website =Instagram }} Suits (American TV series) or The Mechanic (2011 film).{{cite web | url = https://www.instagram.com/reel/C1HT6Nws6CN/| title = Pro-Ject on Movie-Sets: The Mechanic (2011) | author = Reel by projectaudiosystems | date = 2023-12-21 | access-date = 2024-12-04 | website = Instagram}}
Notable products
Pro-Ject Audio Systems offers a diverse range of turntables, each tailored to specific user preferences and requirements. Below is an overview of their product lines, along with references to reputable reviews for further information.
=Debut line=
The original Pro-Ject Debut turntable was introduced at the tail end of the 1990s. It was a terrific budget deck that married affordability with performance, and over the years the various generations that followed continued that trend despite a gradual move upmarket. Through continuous innovation and enhancements this Line has maintained its significance in the turntable market.{{cite web | url = https://www.whathifi.com/reviews/pro-ject-debut-pro | title = What Hi-Fi? Awards 2023 winner: Pro-Ject Debut Pro review | author = What Hi-Fi? | date = 2023-10-16 | access-date = 2024-12-13 | website = What Hi-Fi?}}
The Debut PRO model, introduced to commemorate Pro-Ject's 30th anniversary, exemplifies this evolution with sophisticated design elements and advanced features, positioning it competitively within the mid-market segment. Further advancing the series, the Debut PRO B incorporates balanced technology to minimize noise and interference, reflecting Pro-Ject's commitment to high-quality analog audio reproduction.{{cite web | url = https://www.hifichoice.com/content/pro-ject-introduces-debut-pro-b-turntable | title = Pro-Ject introduces Debut PRO B turntable | author = Hi-Fi Choice | date = 2024-09-18 | access-date = 2024-11-13 | website = Hi-Fi Choice}}
The Debut EVO line, including models like the Debut Carbon EVO and Debut EVO 2, offers significant enhancements over previous iterations, such as improved motor suspension, electronic speed selection, and a one-piece carbon fiber tonearm. These upgrades contribute to a refined audio performance and user-friendly experience.{{cite web | url = https://www.whathifi.com/reviews/pro-ject-debut-carbon-evo | title = Pro-Ject Debut Carbon Evo review | author = What Hi-Fi? | date = 2020-10-06 | access-date = 2024-11-13 | website = WHAT HI-FI?}}
The Colourful Audio System combines the Debut Carbon EVO turntable, MaiA S3 integrated amplifier, and Speaker Box 5 S2 speakers, offering a vibrant, high-quality audio experience. Available in six finishes, this system delivers dynamic sound with Bluetooth streaming and multiple connectivity options, catering to both analog enthusiasts and modern listeners.{{cite web | url = https://www.avforums.com/reviews/pro-ject-colourful-hifi-system-review.20005/ | title = Pro-Ject Colourful HiFi System Review - The Austrian system | author = Ed Selley | date = 2022-10-21 | access-date = 2024-11-13 | website = av forums}}
=Vertical Line=
Pro-Ject's Vertical features turntables like the VT-E (Elemental Line) and VT-E BT (with Bluetooth-Output), designed to play records vertically, offering a unique aesthetic without compromising sound quality. These models are praised for their innovative design and ease of setup, making them conversation pieces that deliver solid audio performance.{{cite web | url = https://theaudiophileman.com/vt-e/ | title = Pro-Ject VT-E Turntable: You Gotta Acc-en-tu-ate the Vertical | author = Paul Rigby| date = 2017-06-22 | access-date = 2024-11-16 | website = The Audiophile Man}}
=Primary Line=
The Pro-Ject Primary line offers entry-level turntables designed for simplicity and high-quality sound. Models like the Primary E feature a pre-set tonearm and factory-fitted Ortofon OM 1S cartridge, ensuring easy setup and an engaging listening experience. Praised for their lively sound and value, these turntables are ideal for newcomers to vinyl.The Primary E Phono model includes a built-in phono preamp for added convenience.{{cite web | url = https://www.loudersound.com/reviews/pro-ject-primary-e-turntable-review | title = Pro-Ject Primary E turntable review| author = Paul Dimery | date = 2022-10-05 | access-date = 2024-11-16 | website = LouderSound.com}}
=E Line=
The Pro-Ject E Line, introduced in mid-2022, offers entry-level turntables designed for audiophiles seeking quality sound at an accessible price. Models like the E1 feature a belt-drive system, an Ortofon OM5e cartridge, and a sub-platter design that minimizes vibrations. Praised for their stylish design and ease of setup, these turntables provide a compelling option for vinyl enthusiasts. The E1 Phono includes a built-in preamp, while the E1 BT adds Bluetooth connectivity.{{cite web | url = https://www.digitaltrends.com/home-theater/pro-ject-e1-turntable-review/ | title = Pro-Ject E1 review: a big-sounding entry-level turntable that'll grow on you | author = Derek Malcolm | date = 2022-10-12 | access-date = 2024-12-16 | website = DigitalTrends.com}}
=Juke Box Line=
The Pro-Ject Juke Box line integrates a turntable, phono stage, amplifier, and Bluetooth receiver into a single unit, offering a comprehensive audio solution. Models like the Juke Box E and Juke Box E1 are praised for their user-friendly setup and robust performance, making them ideal for vinyl enthusiasts seeking simplicity without sacrificing quality. Stereo sets include matching speakers for a complete audio solution.{{cite web | url = https://www.theaudiotailor.com.au/blogs/reviews/pro-ject-jukebox-e1-turntable-review-the-all-in-one-audio-marvel | title = Pro-Ject Jukebox E1 Turntable Review: The All-in-One Audio Marvel | author = The Audio Tailor | date = 2024-10-19 | access-date = 2024-12-16 | website = theaudiotailor.com.au}}
=RPM Line=
The Pro-Ject RPM line features turntables with distinctive designs and advanced engineering, aimed at delivering high-fidelity audio performance. Models like the RPM 3 Carbon incorporate a low-resonance chassis, carbon-fiber tonearm, and isolated motor to minimize vibrations and enhance sound quality. Praised for their aesthetic appeal and sonic precision, the RPM series caters to audiophiles seeking both form and function within the models RPM 1 Carbon, RPM 3 Carbon, RPM 5 Carbon, RPM 9 Carbon, RPM 10 Carbon.{{cite web | url = https://www.trustedreviews.com/reviews/pro-ject-rpm-3-carbon | title = Pro-Ject RPM 3 Carbon Review | author = Simon Osborne-Walker | date = 2016-05-02 | access-date = 2024-12-16 | website = trustedreviews.com}}
=Artist Collection=
These special editions – collaborations with artists and bands such as Pink Floyd, Metallica, The Beatles, George Harrison, Ringo Starr, The Rolling Stones, Parov Stelar, Hans Theessink, and DelaDap – are celebrated for their craftsmanship and appeal to both audiophiles and collectors, offering a fusion of musical heritage and technical excellence.{{cite web | url = https://design-milk.com/pro-ject-audio-artist-collection-turntable | title = Pro-Ject Audio Artist Collection Puts a Spin on Turntable Art | author = Gregory Han | date = 2019-03-15 | access-date = 2024-12-16 | website = design-milk.com}}
Pro-Ject's Artist Collection showcases turntables inspired by iconic musicians and albums, blending high-quality audio performance with distinctive designs. Notably, the Beatles-themed editions stand out, especially the Yellow Submarine (film) turntable. This model features a unique submarine-shaped plinth, vibrant yellow finish, and an exclusive Ortofon Concorde Sonar cartridge, capturing the essence of the Beatles' 1968 animated film.{{cite web | url = https://www.whathifi.com/news/pro-jects-latest-beatles-themed-turntable-yellow-submarine | title = Pro-Ject's latest Beatles-themed turntable: Yellow Submarine| author = Becky Roberts | date = 2018-05-09 | access-date = 2024-12-16 | website = whathifi.com}} For a visual 360 degree overview of the Yellow Submarine turntable, you might find this Youtube-video{{cite web | url = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QLGEkj8gjZQ | title = Pro-Ject Yellow Submarine Turntable - 360 degree Overview | author = Kronos AV | date = 2018-10-10 | access-date = 2024-12-16 | website = Youtube}} helpful.
Picture Gallerie
{{Gallery|title=Pro-Ject audio products}}
File:Pro-Ject 1 (1991).jpg|Pro-Ject 1 record player (1991) – the company's entry into the turntable market
File:Pro-Ject Artist-Line TheBeatles-YellowSubmarine.jpg|The Beatles Yellow Submarine turntable - part of the Artist Collection
File:Debut-Carbon-Evo-golden-yellow-front.364.jpg|Debut Carbon EVO (2020) in Satin Yellow
File:Pro-Ject Juke Box S2 Stereo Set b.jpg|Pro-Ject Juke Box S2 Stereo Set
File:Pro-Ject RPM 3.jpg|Pro-Ject RPM 3
File:Pro-Ject X 8 evolution.jpg|Pro-Ject X 8 evolution
File:PJ-BD-PreBoxS2Digital+AmpBoxS2+EIII.jpg|The Pre Box S2 Digital and Amp Box S2 with an Essential III Turntable
File:6PerspeX-NY-JakobDirnberger2018.jpg|6PerspeX turntable photographed in New York (2018)
File:Phonopreamp-Pro-Ject.jpg|Phono Box RS2 (Phono Preamplifier)
See also
References
{{Reflist}}
External links
- {{Official website|http://www.project-audio.com/}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=January 2017}}{{EngvarB|date=January 2017}}
{{Authority control}}
Category:Electronics companies established in 1991
Category:Headphone amplifier manufacturers
Category:Phonograph manufacturers
Category:Audio equipment manufacturers of Austria