The Xtension is the first reference-quality turntable from Pro-Ject. Innovation starts with a precision balanced platter that is resonance-optimized and employs aluminum in a damped sandwich construction. Additionally, the massive 12.5-pound platter is topped with a 4mm thick flat ground vinyl mat and records are coupled using the supplied brass puck. The platter assembly is magnetically suspended by a stainless steel inverted bearing resting against a ceramic bearing plate that’s supported by a central metal block optimizing the center of gravity and damping the main bearing. The MDF plinth rests on four individual magnetic feet, each height adjustable, using the built-in spirit level. Accurate speed control is accomplished by the built-in Speed Box SE II, which electronically controls speed and speed change between 33.3 and 45 rpm. 78 rpm speed is accomplished mechanically. The 12” carbon fiber weave 12cc EVO tonearm with integrated headshell provides outstanding rigidity-to-weight ratio. Swiss-built bearings and tempered steel gimbals can extract the most from any high-performance phono cartridge. Precision adjustment of tonearm height (VTA), azimuth and anti-skating is easily accomplished by the user. A damped tonearm lift provides accurate cueing. Optically clear dust cover included.
It is apparent throughout contemporary culture that modern and classical designs are working, more than ever before, in harmony. Countless varying product categories, such as cars, watches and furniture, are all embracing the ever-popular retro trend. The reasoning behind this love of 'retro' is it's inherent mix of classical beauty, combined with absolute mechanical precision, high-quality components, and superior performance.
Pro-ject products gave analog a new life in the nineties; our products have successfully shown that you can listen to music in a better way than with any contemporary digital medium, and it doesn't have to cost the earth.
However, now with the Xtension, we at Pro-Ject aim to bring back a classical analog concept from the eighties, and combine it with our advanced contemporary technologies. After eighteen years of turntable manufacturing for analog lovers on a budget, we're delighted to announce our first deck not subscribed to budgetary limitations; and boy does it deliver.
Already, the critically acclaimed 6 Perspex has proved the fantastic result of using magnets to isolate the subchassis. So consequently, for the Xtension this technology has been re-developed to utilise new magnetic feet, which almost completely decouple the main plinth. Combine this with the weighty 25kg total mass of the turntable, and the listener benefi ts from minimal base resonance. This is a unique combination of 'mass loaded' and 'floating turntable' design principals.
In keeping with these principles, the platter is metal due to its higher mass than acrylic. However, the old standard adoption of pure metal has been abandoned because of its highly-resonant tendencies. Instead, we've found a perfect alloy which we dampened on the inner side with Sorbothane®. Taking this base, we've glued recycled Vinyl records to the top (which act as a perfect mat) and bake this 'sandwich' before precision balancing it. The final product subsequently benefits from a wonderfully resonance-free, heavy platter.
Another consideration was the amount of energy the tonearm base would have to take from arm and cartridge movement. These energies have to be controlled, as do those from the motor and the bearing (they have to be kept away from the tonearm to avoid interference). Consequently, the tonearm base on the Xtension also benefits from 'high-mass' technologies, and is isolated from the main board by a sheet of Sorbothane®. Importantly though, this board is still able to incorporate the adoption of different tonearms.
As we originally premised with this turntable, to be in keeping with its 'classic' ethos, the Xtension comes with a beautiful dustcover with adjustable hinges, as well as several finish options in a high-gloss lacquer. Ultimately, the Xtension truly delivers a timelessly classic, exclusive analogue experience.
User ManualBrochure
Share this product