Pro-Ject A1.2 Automat Turntable

Description

About the Pro-Ject A1.2 Automat Turntable with Ortofon OM 10 Cartridge

Activate the start control on the Pro-Ject A1.2 Automat Turntable and the tonearm moves into position. At the end of the record, it returns automatically. During playback, the automatic mechanism disengages, allowing the cartridge and tonearm to follow the groove without the mechanism remaining engaged.

An updated drive system and precision-machined aluminium platter build on the original A1 design. Electronic speed selection and factory-adjusted tonearm settings make the A1.2 an approachable choice for both first-time buyers and returning vinyl enthusiasts.

 

 

Product Datasheet >> View User Manual >> View Pro-Ject Audio Products >>

 

→ What We think

The A1.2 makes sense for listeners who want vinyl to fit comfortably into everyday life. Automatic cueing removes one of the more intimidating parts of playing records, while automatic return is convenient when you are occupied elsewhere in the room.

We particularly like the flexibility of its switchable phono stage. You can begin with a simple system and retain the option of using a separate phono preamplifier later.

Our recommendation is to build a balanced system around it. Choose suitable amplification and speakers, provide a firm, level surface, and keep your records clean. Those fundamentals deserve attention before adding optional accessories.

 

→ Suggested System Pairing

A compact integrated amplifier and a well-positioned pair of bookshelf speakers make a practical starting point. Choose speakers for your room size and preferred listening volume, then consider how the turntable will sit within the system.

For a simpler arrangement, use active speakers with an analogue line input and volume control. Engage the A1.2’s phono stage and connect its RCA cable to the speakers’ compatible input.

Allow enough space above the turntable to open the dust cover comfortably. Avoid placing loudspeakers on the same lightweight furniture as the deck, where vibration can travel directly through the support.

Recommended With This Product

• Rotel A11MKII: An integrated amplifier option for a conventional stereo system.
• Compatible Bookshelf Speakers: Choose a pair suited to your room, amplifier and listening preferences.
• Record-Cleaning Brush: Useful for removing loose surface dust before playback.
• Stylus-Cleaning Brush: Helps maintain the stylus when used according to the cartridge manufacturer’s instructions.
• Record-Cleaning System: Worth considering for larger collections or second-hand records.
• Replacement Ortofon Stylus 10: The replacement stylus specified for the supplied OM 10 cartridge.
• Stable Turntable Support: A practical addition where existing furniture is flexible or prone to vibration.

 

The Pro-Ject A1.2 Automat Turntable is ideal for

• First-time turntable buyers
• Listeners returning to vinyl
• Households wanting straightforward automatic operation
• Systems without a built-in phono input
• Compatible active speakers with analogue inputs
• Listeners who prefer factory-set cartridge and tonearm adjustments
• Everyday album and singles playback

 

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is the Pro-Ject A1.2 fully automatic?
   Yes. It automatically cues the tonearm at the beginning of a compatible record and returns it at the end. You can also stop playback using the stop control.

2. Is the Ortofon OM 10 cartridge included?
   Yes. This listing includes the OM 10 cartridge, factory fitted and aligned. You do not need to purchase a separate cartridge to begin listening.

3. Do I need a separate phono preamplifier?
   No, provided you use the built-in phono stage. Switch it on when connecting to a conventional analogue line input, such as AUX.

4. Can I use my amplifier’s phono input?
   Yes, if it supports moving-magnet cartridges. Switch the turntable’s internal phono stage off before connecting to the amplifier’s MM phono input.

5. Can it connect directly to active speakers?
   Yes, when the speakers have a compatible analogue input and volume control. Use the turntable’s internal phono stage. Passive speakers require a separate amplifier.

6. Can it play 12-inch records at 45 rpm?
   Yes, but you must cue them manually. The automatic 45 rpm start position is configured for 7-inch singles. The same manual-start requirement applies to 10-inch records at 45 rpm. project-audio.com

7. Can I select a particular track manually?
   Yes. Use the cueing lift to position the stylus above the desired track. This is useful when you want to hear one song without starting at the beginning of the side.

8. Does it play 78 rpm records?
   No. The A1.2 supports 33⅓ and 45 rpm. Choose a suitable three-speed turntable and appropriate stylus if you want to play shellac records.

9. Does it have Bluetooth or USB?
   No. Its audio connection is analogue RCA. Wireless transmission or computer recording would require suitable additional equipment.

10. Do I need to adjust tracking force?
    The supplied configuration arrives with tracking force and anti-skating preset. Follow the unpacking instructions before use, including removal of the transport restraints and stylus guard.

11. Can the stylus be replaced?
    Yes. The OM 10 has a replaceable stylus assembly. Ask Rapallo to confirm the correct replacement and fitting procedure before ordering.

12. Can I change the cartridge?
    Discuss the proposed cartridge with Rapallo first. Mounting compatibility alone does not establish suitability; cartridge weight, compliance and tracking-force requirements must also match the tonearm.

14. What is different from the original A1?
    The A1.2 introduces an updated drive system and a CNC-machined die-cast aluminium platter. It retains the Automat range’s emphasis on convenient, mechanically operated automatic playback. Hifi Pig
15. Where should I place the turntable?
    Use a level, rigid surface with space for the dust cover to open. Keep it away from direct speaker vibration and allow easy access to the controls and records.

 

Key Features

Fully Automatic Start and Return

The A1.2 handles tonearm placement and end-of-side return for you. This reduces the need to handle the arm directly and makes everyday listening easier, particularly when several members of the household share the turntable.

Automatic Mechanism Disengages During Playback

Once the stylus reaches the record, the mechanical automatic system disengages. This separates its operating functions from normal playback, allowing the turntable to offer automatic convenience without keeping the mechanism coupled throughout the record.

Factory-Fitted Ortofon OM 10 Cartridge

The supplied Ortofon OM 10 moving-magnet cartridge comes fitted and aligned. Its elliptical stylus provides an established starting point for vinyl listening, while the replaceable stylus assembly makes future maintenance straightforward.

Ultra-Light-Mass Aluminium Tonearm

An 8.3-inch aluminium tonearm follows Pro-Ject’s ultra-light-mass design approach. Tracking force and anti-skating are preset at the factory, simplifying initial setup and removing the need to balance the arm before your first listening session.

Precision-Machined Aluminium Platter

The A1.2 replaces the original A1’s stamped platter with a die-cast aluminium design. CNC machining and precision balancing improve manufacturing consistency, providing a carefully engineered platform for your records.

Carbon-Fibre-Reinforced Headshell

The headshell uses carbon-fibre-reinforced polymer to combine low weight with rigidity. This construction supports the lightweight tonearm design while helping control unwanted resonance around the cartridge mounting point.

Switchable Built-In Phono Stage

The integrated phono stage allows connection to a standard analogue line input. It can also be switched off when using an amplifier’s MM phono input or a separate phono preamplifier, giving you useful system flexibility.

Electronic 33⅓ and 45 rpm Selection

Change playback speed using the selector without moving the drive belt. This makes switching between albums and singles convenient; larger 45 rpm records can be played using the manual cueing procedure.

Wooden Chassis and Damped Feet

A substantial wooden chassis and damped feet help manage unwanted vibration. Positioning the turntable on a stable surface, preferably separate from the speakers, allows these construction features to work effectively.

Supplied Cable and Everyday Essentials

A fixed Connect it E RCA cable provides the audio connection. The supplied dust cover, felt mat, singles adaptor and power supply cover the essential accessories needed to connect the turntable to a suitable system.

 

Specifications

Brand: Pro-Ject Audio Systems
Model: Automat A1.2
Product Type: Fully automatic turntable
Drive System: Belt drive
Playback Speeds: 33⅓ and 45 rpm
Speed Selection: Electronic
Automatic Functions: Start, stop and tonearm return
Manual Cueing: Supported
Platter: Damped, CNC-machined die-cast aluminium
Tonearm: Ultra-light-mass aluminium
Effective Tonearm Length: 211mm / 8.3 inches
Overhang: 19.5mm
Tracking Force and Anti-Skating: Factory preset
Headshell: Carbon-fibre-reinforced polymer
Wow and Flutter, 33⅓ rpm: ±0.27%
Wow and Flutter, 45 rpm: ±0.25%
Speed Variance, 33⅓ rpm: ±0.75%
Speed Variance, 45 rpm: ±0.65%
Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 65dB
Audio Connection: Fixed stereo RCA cable with earth lead
Phono Stage: Built-in, switchable
Power Supply: External 15V DC / 800mA
Power Consumption: 1.5W
Dimensions: 430mm W × 130mm H × 365mm D
Weight: 5.6kg

Included Cartridge: Ortofon OM 10
Cartridge Type: Moving magnet
Stylus Profile: Elliptical
Output Voltage: 4mV
Recommended Tracking Force: 1.5g
Recommended Load Impedance: 47kΩ
Frequency Range: 20Hz–22kHz
Channel Separation: 22dB at 1kHz
Replacement Stylus: Ortofon Stylus 10

Included Accessories: Dust cover, hinges, felt mat, singles adaptor, fixed phono cable and power supply.

 

Why Buy From Rapallo

✔ Advice on matching your turntable to your existing system
✔ Help choosing between phono and line-level connections
✔ Amplifier and speaker recommendations for your room
✔ Guidance on placement and everyday record care
✔ Advice on replacement styli and compatible upgrades
✔ Contact us to confirm current stock, finishes and demonstration availability