The original Pro-ject X1 turntable design, with it's underlying core philosophy and dedication to quality music performance, has all the high-end aspects built in that really take vinyl listening to the ultimate heights. But as is the way in hifi many people still wanted more. They were willing to invest more, because this is how much they fell in love with their newfound passion. It is hard to improve on such a well performing turntable, but there are ways to do it. It was not time to reinvent the wheel, because the core engineering on the P1, or now the X1, already was and still is ideal. Instead it has improved on the technologies that had previously been established:
More mass in the chassis, platter and tonearm: Structurally, the X2 is supported by its large, heavy, dense and stiff MDF structure, reducing unwanted resonances to almost imperceptible levels. By adding this extra mass, the X2 is even quieter, allowing the vinyl reproduction to become more detailed and precise. Inside, it houses a sophisticated DC/ AC generator board which, combined with the convenient speed control board, delivers clean and stable power to the silent motor system. The tonearm is longer – 9″ in length – and the tube has a wider diameter and the carbon/aluminum composite construction results in better internal damping. This also means, the entire tonearm bearing is upgraded to compensate for the extra mass; altogether tracking will be more precise, stable and accurate. The increased mass makes the tonearm an excellent fit for most modern high performance cartridges. The one-piece design avoids vibrations caused by detachable headshells. The TPE damped counterweight reduces arm-cartridge resonances by as much as 50%.
Improved Motor and Suspension:A good motor by itself, is already very quiet. To get the best performance out of it, we further isolate it via a suspension. This will allow the motor to run stable and free from outside influences. Remaining vibrations are damped and eliminated, so they are not transmitted onto the chassis, platter and cartridge. The X2‘s motor chassis is carefully balanced and suspended on a precision tuned TPE isolator, effectively decoupling it from the main plinth for optimal performance. It is free floating, horizontally level and able to operate at the highest performance levels.
High-end Cartridge: The X2 is supplied with a factory mounted and aligned Sumiko Moonstone cartridge. Exceptionally well-balanced and capable of breathtaking dynamics, the Moonstone is one of the best tracking cartridge we have ever measured, regardless of price. As a bonus, the stylus is field replaceable should it become worn or damaged. Isolation from external vibrations is achieved with newly developed Aluminum/Thermo Plastic Elastomer composite feet which are are height/leveling adjustable.
$1,699