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Thoughts on the various platter materials used in Pro-Ject's midrange turntables?

I've been looking at Pro-Ject's mid-priced turntables and it has got me thinking: which ones have better platters for sonic performance?  Specifically, the models, all which have different platter materials are:

X2 - Acrylic ($1,699);

The Classic Evo - Aluminum (Precision balanced TPE-damped) ($1,999);

6 PerspeX SB - Vinyl/MDF sandwiched platter ($2,799).

 

Doing some general searches online, there seems to be high praise for acrylic.  A lot of bashing of aluminum and not great comments regarding MDF.  Is it possible that the cheapest turntable (X2) has the best platter?  Obviously, this discussion does not take into consideration the other differences with the turntables, including cartridge differences.  But just thought I'd get some insight specifically on the platter issue.

syr1990

Showing 1 response by williewonka

williewonka
3,110 posts
 

@syr1990 - My Rega Planar II originally had a glass platter - it was tough to get a mat that worked really well.

Finally settled on a 20 SRM/TECH Acrylic Platter

DELUXE ACRYLIC PLATTER FOR REGA AND REGA CLONES | eBay

Installed it and never looked back.

I think what helps the performance of this platter is the "Peripheral Rubber Band" surround - which helps add mass and prevents the platter from "ringing"

This provided the performance boost I was looking for

  • more artculate
  • improved details and clarity
  • tighter bass
  • less glare
  • improved sibilance

A mat is not required with this platter.

Since changing to the Acrylic platter I have upgraded the plinth, arm and cartridge and each time this platter simply provided more and more details.

After this experience, I would not consider any turntable that did not have an acrylic platter

Hope that helps Steve

 

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