Pro-Ject XA B: Acrylic turntable for high-end sound with a transparent look

Pro-Ject introduces the XA B, a distinctive record player that stands out in both design and audio quality. Featuring an acrylic turntable, it delivers a strikingly transparent aesthetic alongside impressive sound performance. The synergy of the aluminum tonearm, turntable, and the compatible Pick it PRO balanced pickup system, along with specially designed feet, contributes to the XA B’s vibrant and dynamic sound. This record player effectively merges its unique visual appeal with the acoustic dampening properties of acrylic.

Premium tonearm

The new XA B stands on three height-adjustable dampened feet for a perfect stand. (Image: Pro-Ject)

The XA B features a premium 10-inch aluminum tonearm designed with a robust bearing structure. Its exceptionally low-friction 4-point tonearm bearing ensures precise, stable, and accurate tracking. Instead of a carbon tube, a single-piece aluminum tonearm tube is utilized, as aluminum enhances the acoustic characteristics of acrylic.

The aluminum tonearm base provides authentic audiophile attributes. Users have the ability to adjust both the azimuth and the vertical tracking angle (VTA). Fine-tuning and experimenting with VTA and azimuth settings are essential for maximizing the cartridge’s performance.

True Balanced

The updated Pick it PRO Balanced cartridge represents an enhancement of the original Pick it PRO, facilitating “True Balanced” signal transmission. In collaboration with Ortofon, Pro-Ject has created a balanced-compatible MM cartridge system, marking a pioneering achievement in the industry. One of the primary benefits of a balanced connection is its effectiveness in eliminating recorded noise and interference.

Eye-catcher: the new record player combines exclusive design with convincing performance. (Image: Pro-Ject)

High quality phono cable

Cables do not enhance the audio quality of a sound system; however, they play a crucial role in transmitting every detail and piece of information in the signal to the appropriate receiving device. The included Connect it Phono E 5P/RCA is a premium, phono-optimized cable designed with high-quality core materials, including a copper conductor, to guarantee lossless signal transmission.

Heavy aluminum turntable

The XA B features a high-quality 10-inch aluminum tonearm with a solid bearing construction. (Image: Pro-Ject)

The 1.7 kg die-cast aluminum platter undergoes further refinement and meticulous balancing to achieve an optimal turntable. This aluminum platter features an internal TPE (thermoplastic elastomer) ring designed to absorb resonances, effectively reducing wow and flutter. Additionally, the included Record Puck E enhances damping and stability. Record pucks apply weight to secure a playing record against the turntable, resulting in improved sound performance characterized by enhanced timing and depth.

Height-adjustable cushioned feet

The new XA B stands on three height-adjustable dampened feet to ensure perfect stability. Using three feet increases stability on uneven surfaces. A perfectly level turntable is essential for real high-end sound.

Premium DC/AC power generator

In all of its turntables, Pro-Ject uses what the manufacturer calls a “cheap-looking” switching power supply. This is because, according to the manufacturer, a precise, DC-powered alternator is used inside the turntable to drive the motor.

This creates a completely new sine wave. This in turn guarantees a very clean performance, which leads to improved speed stability .

Pro-Ject XA B: Price and availability

The Pro-Ject XA B turntable can be purchased from specialized retailers at a price of $1,299.