Pro-Ject has launched the Classic Reference, a reference vinyl player for discerning music lovers and high-end audio lovers. This is a demonstration of the capabilities of a company known above all for the verified rationality of its models. This new model is based on the developments of the branded reference Classic EVO and VPO 175 from Pro-Ject, created in honor of the 175th anniversary of the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra.
This is the EVO 9 ASHG tonearm, which uses inverted Swiss ABEC7 cardan bearings. Four stainless steel tips are placed in a massive aluminum frame. The tonearm has an S-shaped tube with internal damping and is designed for a removable cartridge.
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The massive aluminium disc is damped by advanced thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) on the underside. In keeping with traditional Pro-Ject architecture, the belt drive uses a precision-balanced sub-disc, this time also aluminium, which, among other things, increases the inertia of the rotating system.
According to the proprietary True Balanced concept, the model has balanced XLR connectors in addition to the traditional asymmetrical RCA. The power supply can power not only the turntable but also one of the proprietary phono preamplifiers. In the first case, 15 V is required, and in the second case, 18–20 V. The turntable is handcrafted in Europe in two finishes: black/silver gloss and acacia/bronze.
Price:
The Pro-Ject Classic Reference turntable is priced at $6,000 in the first trim level and $7,000 in the second.
Technical Specifications
| Speed: | 33, 45 (78) RPM (electronic speed change) |
| Drive principle: | Belt drive |
| Platter: | 300 mm aluminium with TPE damping ring |
| Mains bearing: | Stainless steel |
| Wow & flutter: | 33: ±0.03 % 45: ±0.04 % |
| Speed variance: | 33: ±0.08 % 45: ±0.10 % |
| Signal to noise: | 73dB |
| Tonearm: | EVO 9 AS HG |
| Effective arm length: | 230 mm |
| Effective arm mass: | 24.2 g |
| Overhang: | 18 mm |
| Included accessories: | 15 Volts DC / 0.8 A power supply, dust cover, Leather it, Clamp it |
| Power connection: | 110/120 or 230/240 Volt – 50 or 60 Hz |
| Power consumption: | 5 Watt max / < 0.5 Watt standby |
| Dimensions: | 460 x 131 x 351 mm (WxHxD) lid closed |