A springtime mecca for hi-fi enthusiasts, Munich’s High End show is an opportunity for manufacturers to present their new products. At Pro-Ject’s stand, the Automat A1.2 automatic turntable attracted the attention of visitors, while two limited editions, the Elvis and Peanuts Turntable, also turned heads.
Pro-Ject continues to develop automatic turntables
The release of the Pro-Ject Automat A1.2 turntable confirms that the trial run of the first generation, launched in 2022, has been transformed. Founded in 1991, the brand took more than three decades to release its first fully automatic model with the Automat A1. A true revolution for the brand at the time, this renewal underlines the manufacturer’s determination to develop an easy-to-use hi-fi solution for analog sound enthusiasts.
The Automat A1.2 doesn’t just repeat the formula of its predecessor. With a new cartridge, a new platter and an improved drive system, this turntable takes a quantum leap forward compared to the first generation.
Automat A1.2: improvements
Among the main changes to the Automat A1.2, the Ortofon OM10 cartridge has been replaced by the Pick It MM E model. This is a moving magnet (MM) cartridge with a conical stylus tip. It adopts a standard ½” mounting standard and its ABS plastic body absorbs mechanical vibrations. The Pick It MM E cartridge also promises improved sound reproduction thanks to an internal architecture designed to reduce background noise.
In addition to the cartridge, the platter of the Pro-Ject Automat A1.2 has been redesigned. While it retains its aluminum structure, it is now CNC machined. This process guarantees very high precision to deliver a perfectly flat, centered and balanced platter, which reduces rotational irregularities.
Automat A1.2: key features
- Automatic turntable
- Belt drive
- Pro-Ject Pick It MM E cartridge
- CNC-machined aluminum platter
- Aluminum tonearm
- Built-in switchable phono preamp
- Dimensions (WxHxD): 430 x 130 x 365mm
- Weight: 5.6kg
- Price: €499
Two limited editions on display
An iconic brand in the world of vinyl, Pro-Ject has forged a solid reputation for both the quality of its turntables and its audacity. Once again, the Austrian manufacturer offers two limited editions with unique designs.
The Elvis turntable joins the Artists range, which already includes models inspired by the Beatles, Metallica and Pink Floyd. This time, of course, Pro-Ject pays tribute to the King. Its 10mm thick glass platter features the famous singer’s first name in red LEDs. The Elvis turntable is equipped with a MM Sumiko Rainer cartridge.
Just a few steps away was the other new addition to the Pro-Ject stand at High End 2025: the Peanuts Turntable. This limited edition honors the 75th anniversary of Charlie Brown and Snoopy, the cartoon characters imagined by Charles M. Schulz in 1950. Mounted on a Pro-Ject T1 BT turntable, it features a chassis embossed with the Peanuts characters. It will be available shortly at a price of €599.
Every year, the Pro-Ject stand is a must for vinyl enthusiasts. This 2025 edition was no exception, as it also featured the AC/DC turntable and the manufacturer’s flagship models, such as the X2B and the Debut Evo 2 range.
All the vinyl news from High End Munich 2025
