Pro-Ject Automat A2 Automatic Turntable

Automat A2 Turntable The Pro-Ject Automat A2 builds upon the success of the A1, expanding the company’s lineup of mechanically driven, fully automatic turntables. The A2 lets listeners choose where the tonearm lowers onto the record groove via the size selector dial — for 7″ singles (45 rpm) or 12″ records (33 or 45 rpm). For even greater versatility, Pro-Ject has added a 78 rpm option to the speed selector, enabling playback of vintage 10″ shellac discs (for 10″ 78s, manually cue the tonearm, then engage the damped lift lever). Because 78s feature wider grooves and are pressed from different materials than standard vinyl, Pro-Ject recommends using the Sumiko RS 78 stylus with the factory-mounted Sumiko Rainier moving-magnet cartridge, precisely aligned before leaving the factory. To enjoy playback, simply flip the Start switch. The tonearm automatically moves to the lead-in groove of the selected record size. During playback, all automatic mechanisms are mechanically disengaged until the stylus reaches the lead-out groove. At that point, the tonearm lifts, returns to its rest, and the turntable powers down. Since these mechanisms are entirely mechanical, they exert no influence on sound quality during playback. Improved Tonearm & Gimbal Bearing The A2 features an ultra-low-mass 8.3″ aluminum tonearm with a larger-diameter tube designed to support a broad range of cartridges. Each A2 is equipped with the Sumiko Rainier, allowing easy upgrades to the Olympia, Moonstone, or Wellfleet by simply exchanging the stylus. Its suspended sub-chassis design delivers lightning-fast responsiveness, striking transient detail, and refined micro-dynamics, while the Rainier cartridge adds warmth and smooth musicality — an ideal match. The four-point gimbal bearing assembly employs precision steel-tipped ball bearings manufactured in-house by Pro-Ject, minimizing friction for exceptional groove-tracking accuracy. Heavy MDF Plinth & Floating Sub-Chassis Each A2 plinth is crafted from dense MDF and hand-finished with an elegant eight-layer matte-black lacquer. This heavy structure minimizes unwanted resonance and isolates the deck from vibration. The platter bearing, tonearm, and motor are mounted to a floating sub-chassis, isolating the most critical components from external noise and mechanical interference — particularly beneficial when loudspeakers are positioned near the turntable. Massless Tracking Force Adjustment A damped counterweight increases tonearm rigidity while acoustically decoupling it to suppress resonance. Tracking force is precisely controlled through a finely engineered spring — similar to those used in high-grade wristwatches — connected directly to the tonearm bearing. This keeps the center of gravity perfectly aligned above the bearing for stable tracking and balanced performance. Why a Suspended Sub-Chassis Design? The A2’s automatic mechanism is complex and requires a substantial opening within the main plinth. Conventional hollow cavities can amplify vibration and resonance, but the A2’s suspended sub-chassis effectively decouples the tonearm, cartridge, and drive assembly from the dense main body. This construction eliminates resonant chambers, resulting in superior rigidity and outstanding sonic purity. Handmade in Germany The A2’s fully mechanical automatic system is hand-assembled in Germany, reflecting decades of expertise in precision turntable manufacturing. Approximately 98 percent of all parts and components are produced in Germany — many within Pro-Ject’s own facilities or nearby suppliers. The main chassis is designed and fabricated in Austria, while final assembly and testing take place in Germany to the brand’s exacting standards. Features Sub-chassis principle 8-coat hand-painted MDF main chassis Die-cast aluminum cover for automatic mechanism 8.3″ black aluminum ultra-low-mass tonearm 33/45/78rpm electronically regulated DC motor Massless tracking force adjustment Ultra-low friction 4-point cardanic aluminum tonearm bearing Damped counterweight to eliminate resonance Pre-adjusted Sumiko Rainier phono cartridge Silicon-damped aluminum feet Precision-mechanics with automated start & stop Damped aluminum platter reduces wow & flutter Carbon-fiber-reinforced anti-magnetic headshell Premium semi-symmetrical Connect it E phono cable Gold plated RCA connectors & jacks Dust cover included Handmade in Germany