Pro-Ject’s new T2 W turntable can stream vinyl-based tunes around your home via Wi-Fi and a “lossless 24-bit / 48kHz signal”.
The T2 W looks like a bigger, better version of Pro-Ject’s T1 turntable sporting a longer 9-inch tonearm, thicker glass platter and Sumiko Rainier cartridge pre-installed. However, the T2 W eschews Bluetooth transmission, something that has become increasingly popular due to its convenience, albeit flawed and often reserved for more affordable turntable designs, in favour of leading Wi-Fi streaming technology enabling you to simultaneously stream vinyl throughout your home to multiple UPnP devices.
Pro-Ject is obviously aware of the sustained interest in vinyl records as a playback medium, but also how turntables connect to an audio system has evolved. First, built-in phono stages have become more common; then, we saw a wider array of connection methods offered, such as optical digital outputs or balanced connection options. For newcomers, wireless via Bluetooth has proven popular. With T2 W, Pro-Ject is venturing into the world of quality Wi-Fi streaming turntables.
The T2 W turntable is based around a larger CNC-machined plinth for increased stability, carefully manufactured to ensure there are no hollow spaces inside, avoiding unwanted vibrations within the finished product. The turntable tips the scales at 5.5kg.
The belt drive system features an electronically regulated, precision-speed AC motor attached to Pro-Ject’s T-Line sub-platter inserted into a stainless-steel axle/brass-bushing main bearing. The sub-platter drives the new 10mm thick, 1.7kg glass platter promising absolute stability with Wow and Flutter stated as 0.19% (33RPM) / 0.17% (45RPM).
The T2 W also gets a new 9-inch tonearm featuring a one-piece aluminium tube matched with “an improved” low-friction gimble bearing assembly and spring-loaded anti-skate mechanism. Completing this is a pre-mounted and fully dialled-in Sumiko Rainier cartridge whose signal is sent to a new built-in dual-stage, split-passive moving magnet phono pre-amplifier. Pro-Ject states that this phono stage rivals the technology employed in some external phono pre-amps.
Pro-Ject has then combined these tried and tested turntable elements with innovative UPnP streaming technology.
This additional tech enables seamless streaming to a wide range of modern network-enabled devices, including network streamers, home theatre receivers and contemporary streaming loudspeakers. Such versatility means the T2 W can fit into your living space in a way that suits you, as it does not need to be next to your other audio equipment.
We are assured that the T2 W’s streaming technology, including the latest WLAN standards and 2×2 MIMO, results in faster transmission speeds and greater stability and reliability. Furthermore, according to the brand, this is all handled and managed by a multi-core CPU that has been over-specified for reliability.
The result is the T2 W can send signals up to 24-bit, 48kHz lossless compression, but there is also a lossy transmission option for broader compatibility with other devices. The streaming tech is also multi-room capable, meaning you can simultaneously send audio to several zones without degradation. In addition to Wi-Fi connectivity, you can connect the turntable to your network via the ethernet port next to the RCA outputs. The new Pro-Ject Control app manages the streaming features.
Finally, the Pro-Ject T2 W comes with a removable dust cover, felt mat, and the company’s premium Connect it E Phono RCA cable for a quality connection to an existing hi-fi system.
The Pro-Ject T2 W will be available in the UK from September 2023 at an SRP of £899 with finish options including Gloss Black, Satin White, and Walnut.
