Pro-Ject Debut Evo 2 Review: A Turntable That Redefines Value for Money
The Pro-Ject Debut Evo 2 is a turntable that takes everything great about its predecessor and enhances it. With its refined design, improved features, and stellar sound quality, this is one of the best turntables available under £1,000 today. Whether you're a vinyl enthusiast or a beginner looking to start your journey into the world of analog music, the Evo 2 is a compelling choice.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Outstanding sound quality for the price
- Well-built and visually appealing design
- Easy to use and upgrade over time
Cons:
- Slightly crude power switch
- Limited gloss finishes
Key Features of the Pro-Ject Debut Evo 2
- Motor: Belt-driven turntable with electronic speed control for 33 and 45 RPM
- Tonearm: Carbon fiber arm with factory-fitted cartridge
- Finishes: Available in a range of high gloss, satin, and real wood finishes
Why Pro-Ject Debut Evo 2 Stands Out
Design and Build Quality
The Pro-Ject Debut Evo 2 stays true to the fundamental principles that have made the Debut series so successful. It features a belt-driven mechanism and an unsuspended plinth, which has been a staple of the Debut lineup. However, the Evo 2 introduces several thoughtful refinements.
The new adjustable feet ensure stability, even on uneven surfaces, while the rear-mounted connections make setup simpler than ever. The turntable is available in ten different finishes, including satin, gloss, and a wood option, allowing it to blend seamlessly with any home décor.
While the power switch could use some refinement, the overall build quality is excellent, and the included dust cover is a practical addition for homes with pets or children.
Upgraded Features
The Evo 2 incorporates several improvements over its predecessor:
- Revised Carbon Fiber Tonearm: The new bearing assembly enhances rigidity, allowing for better tracking and overall performance.
- Improved Cartridge: The factory-fitted Pro-Ject Pick it MM EVO cartridge delivers significantly better sound quality compared to the Ortofon 2M Red used in the original Evo.
- Damped Platter: The aluminum platter now features a TPE (thermoplastic elastomer) damping ring, reducing resonance and improving sound clarity.
These upgrades make the Evo 2 not just a great turntable out of the box but also a platform for future enhancements. Pro-Ject offers a range of compatible upgrades, such as a metal sub-platter and a record clamp, to further boost performance.
Sound Quality
When it comes to sound, the Pro-Ject Debut Evo 2 delivers an engaging and balanced performance. The turntable excels in reproducing fine details and offers impressive bass extension.
Tracks like “Into Dust” by Mazzy Star reveal the Evo 2's ability to deliver an intimate and layered performance. Meanwhile, bass-heavy tracks like “Song of the Stars” by Dead Can Dance showcase its control and depth, which are rare at this price point.
The improved cartridge, coupled with the damped platter, ensures that the turntable delivers a quiet and distortion-free listening experience. Whether you're playing jazz, rock, or classical records, the Evo 2 brings out the best in your vinyl collection.
How Does It Compare?
The Pro-Ject Debut Evo 2 competes directly with the Rega Planar 2 and other turntables in the sub-£1,000 category. While the Rega offers a more urgent, dynamic sound, the Evo 2 provides a smoother and more forgiving listening experience.
For those who have balanced inputs in their audio system, the Pro-Ject Debut Pro B might be worth considering. However, for most setups using RCA connectors, the Evo 2 hits the sweet spot in terms of performance and value.
Pricing and Availability
The Pro-Ject Debut Evo 2 is competitively priced:
– UK: £599.99
– USA: $699
– Australia: $1,299 AUD
Given its widespread availability, you can easily find the Evo 2 online or at your local audio retailer. If you're ready to purchase, you can check out the Evo 2 on Amazon for the latest pricing and deals.
Final Thoughts
The Pro-Ject Debut Evo 2 is a turntable that delivers exceptional value for money. Its combination of refined design, upgraded features, and stellar sound quality makes it a standout option in its price range. Whether you're an audiophile or a casual listener, the Evo 2 offers a rewarding and enjoyable vinyl experience.
Why You Should Buy It
- Exceptional sound quality for the price
- Wide range of finishes to suit any décor
- Easy to upgrade as your vinyl collection grows
If you're looking for a high-quality turntable that won't break the bank, the Pro-Ject Debut Evo 2 is a fantastic choice.
FAQs
Does the Pro-Ject Debut Evo 2 support Bluetooth streaming?
No, the Debut Evo series does not currently feature Bluetooth streaming.
Can I upgrade the cartridge on the Evo 2?
Yes, the Evo 2 supports cartridge upgrades, allowing you to further enhance its performance over time.
What are the available finishes for the Evo 2?
The Evo 2 is available in ten finishes, including gloss, satin, and a real wood option.
Ready to elevate your vinyl listening experience? Check out the Pro-Ject Debut Evo 2 on Amazon today!
