(October 18, 2024) Pro-Ject has introduced its new Signature 12.2, a flagship audiophile turntable designed to push the boundaries of vinyl-sourced analog sound. This luxury turntable, priced at $14,999 and weighing a substantial 81.6 pounds, reads like a dream machine on paper. It offers meticulous craftsmanship, advanced materials, and cutting-edge technology, making it one of the most refined options in its price category.
At the heart of the Signature 12.2 is a belt-driven flywheel system that ensures vibration-free operation and ultra-precise speed control. The turntable supports both 33 and 45 RPM speeds, with an impressive speed variance of ±0.09% for 33 RPM and ±0.08% for 45 RPM, minimizing the common issues of speed instability often seen in lower-end models. Pro-Ject has also equipped the turntable with a DC-driven AC generator, ensuring extreme accuracy in playback speeds and further enhancing the system’s stability.
The motor is housed within a high-gloss, hand-polished aluminum block that not only looks sleek but also significantly reduces vibrations to maintain flawless performance. This is just one example of Pro-Ject's commitment to fine craftsmanship; the Signature 12.2 consists of over 100 CNC-machined parts, all assembled and polished by hand. This meticulous attention to detail ensures the highest standards of performance and precision, setting it apart from mass-produced alternatives.
The design incorporates a massive 23.3-pound platter, magnetically decoupled to alleviate bearing stress, ensuring quiet operation and superior speed stability. The platter is crafted from a resonance-optimized aluminum alloy and damped with TPE (Thermoplastic Elastomer), which combats resonance and allows the music to flow with greater clarity and detail. Additionally, the rounded corners of the plinth are not just for aesthetic appeal—they also help reduce standing wave reflections, minimizing sound coloration and improving acoustics.
A standout feature is the 12-inch S-shaped tonearm, designed with a new 3-point pivot bearing for enhanced stability and tracking precision. This design improves upon the traditional uni-pivot system by reducing friction and increasing control, allowing the tonearm to effortlessly follow the grooves of your favorite records, extracting all available musical details. The tonearm also features adjustable VTA (vertical tracking angle) and a removable headshell, making it compatible with a wide range of phono cartridges.
The plinth of the Signature 12.2 is constructed from high-mass MDF, filled with steel pellets to further dampen resonance. It also features spring-loaded feet with adjustable height, allowing you to dial in a perfectly level playing surface while minimizing external vibrations.
Pro-Ject’s dedication to sound purity is also evident in the True Balanced Connection capabilities of the Signature 12.2. With balanced outputs via a 5-pin DIN connector, users can reduce noise and maximize gain when paired with a compatible phono preamp, unlocking the full potential of this high-end turntable.
Shipping in November 2024, the Signature 12.2 looks to be an audiophile masterpiece, offering unparalleled performance, stunning aesthetics, and a wealth of customization options for vinyl enthusiasts willing to invest in the very best.
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