The Classic turntable was launched as part of Pro-Ject Audio Systems' 25th-anniversary celebrations in 2016. Since then, The Classic has become a core part of the Pro-Ject turntable range, but it's time for an EVOlutionary update.

As part of Pro-Ject's long-awaited simplification of ranges, The Classic and The Classic SB SuperPack are now merging into one product offering: The Classic Evo.

Pro-Ject The Classic Evo

The Austrian company states that the Classic Evo utilises a simple and elegant frame design, which bears a notable resemblance to some of the most famous turntables of the 1950s, '60s and '70s - there's no argument from us on that point.

That said, Pro-Ject has brought that design up-to-date with an improved two-plinth design. Instead of the traditional spring-loaded chassis approach, The Classic Evo utilises Thermoplastic Elastomers (TPE) to isolate the metal-finished inner-chassis.

The idea of reduced resonance transference in The Classic Evo carries through to the platter configuration. Machined from a special aluminium alloy the substantial platter is lined with TPE damping. Additionally, the new sub-platter is diamond-cut from the same metal for absolute accuracy and reliability in production. Furthermore, when mounted in the steel/bronze main bearing with Teflon lining, the result, we are told, is an ultra-silent, stable playback platform with minimal bearing noise.

The platter system is belt-driven by a premium AC drive motor, which is powered by a DC/AC generator board for minimal noise and interference from unclean power supplies. For added convenience, there is also a simple speed control switch on the top surface of the inner plinth for quick and easy switching between 33 and 45 RPM.

Updated Tonearm

The Classic Evo retains the specially designed tonearm tube from the original The Classic model. The one-piece aluminium conical tonearm tube is wrapped in carbon fibre – creating an arm that's both light and very stiff. However, in the latest model, the tonearm tube is mounted into a superior bearing housing using a high-mass block to draw vibrations away from the signal wires.

The nickel-finished counterweight is also TPE-damped, reducing the amplitude of the tonearm's resonant-frequency by 50%. Finally, the tonearm also benefits from the expected azimuth and VTA-adjustments.

Ortofon Quintet MC

The Classic Evo comes loaded with the popular Ortofon Quintet Red Moving Coil (MC) cartridge. The Quintet Red is a reliable, all-round performer, and allows The Classic Evo to perform to a high standard straight out of the box. The Classic Evo is also optionally available without the pre-fitted cartridge to order.

The Classic Evo includes a set of height-adjustable dampened feet, a pair of Connect-IT E phono RCA cables (specially developed for use with turntable systems) and a removable dust cover.

Price and availability

The Pro-Ject Classic Evo has a UK SRP of £1,250.00 (£1,050.00 without the Quintet Red MC) and is available now.

The Classic Evo is available in Eucalyptus or Walnut veneer finish and comes with all necessary set-up tools.

For more information, head on over to Pro-Ject.

Tech Spec

• Speed: 33 / 45 / 78 RPM (electronic speed change)
• Drive Principle: Belt drive
• Platter: 300mm Aluminium (TPE-damped)
• Main Bearing: Stainless steel (Bronze bush with Teflon lining)
• Wow & Flutter: ± 0.10% (33 RPM)  /  ± 0.09% (45 RPM)
• Speed Variance: ± 0.13% (33 RPM)  /  ± 0.10% (45 RPM)
• Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 70dB
• Tonearm: The Classic Evo Tonearm (9")
• Effective Arm Length: 230mm
• Effective Arm Mass: 13.5g
• Overhang: 18mm
• Included Accessories: Dust Cover, Connect-IT E (RCA) cable, Ortofon Quintet Red Power Supply: 15V DC
• Power Consumption: 5W Max. / <0.5W in standby
• Dimensions (W x H x D): 462 x 131 x 351mm (lid closed)
• Weight: 10.5kg (net)