Pro-Ject Acryl-IT E Acrylic Turntable Review: Specs, Pros and Cons
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This pro ject acryl it e acrylic turntable review focuses on the Pro-Ject Acryl-IT E, an upgrade platter designed to replace the standard MDF disc in compatible decks. It is defined by its transparent acrylic construction and its specific compatibility with Elemental, Essential, and Primary turntables. The unit measures 11.8 inches in width and length, with a height of 0.79 inches. Weighing 2.65 pounds, it is engineered to reduce resonances through its inert material properties. This component aims to provide a cleaner sound by minimizing vibration interference, offering a direct path to improved audio fidelity for your existing setup.
What stands out
- Transparent acrylic platter material
- Compatible with Elemental, Essential, and Primary models
- Weighs 2.65 pounds
- Measures 11.8 x 11.8 x 0.79 inches
Who it fits
Good fit for
You should consider this upgrade if you own a Pro-Ject Elemental, Essential, or Primary turntable and want to reduce platter resonance. The acrylic construction is designed to be inert, which helps isolate vibrations that can muddy the sound. This is ideal for listeners who want to optimize their current deck without buying a new unit. The specific dent for labels ensures proper record placement, maintaining stability during playback. If your goal is optical and audio refinement through material change, this platter fits your needs.
Who should skip it
You should look elsewhere if you do not own a compatible Pro-Ject deck. This platter is not a universal upgrade and will not fit other brands or different Pro-Ject models outside the Elemental, Essential, and Primary lines. It is also not suitable if you prefer the traditional feel of an MDF platter. Since it is a direct replacement part, you cannot use it as a standalone turntable. Ensure your existing deck matches the specifications before purchasing, as it lacks the versatility of a complete system.
Verdict: The Pro-Ject Acryl-IT E is a targeted upgrade for specific Pro-Ject models, leveraging acrylic inertia to reduce resonance. It offers a clear path to sound refinement for owners of compatible decks.
Key specs explained
Platter Material: Acrylic
This turntable uses a solid acrylic disc instead of the more common medium-density fiberboard. Acrylic is a dense, inert plastic that does not resonate easily. This helps reduce unwanted vibrations from reaching the stylus, which can improve clarity and detail in the sound. You get a cleaner audio signal because the material itself stays stable during rotation.
color: transparent
The platter is see-through, allowing you to view the tonearm and record label clearly. This aesthetic choice does not affect audio performance but helps you monitor the record position. It also lets you see the bearing area beneath, which can be useful for maintenance checks. The look is modern and fits well with minimalist hi-fi setups.
weight: 2.65 pounds
Weighing 2.65 pounds, this platter provides sufficient mass to stabilize the record. A heavier platter resists speed fluctuations caused by the friction of the stylus tracking the grooves. This mass helps maintain consistent rotation, which is critical for accurate pitch and timing. It is heavier than typical MDF platters, offering better rotational stability for your music playback.
width: 11.8 inches
The platter measures 11.8 inches across, which is the standard diameter for most LP records. This size ensures your vinyl sits securely without overhang. It matches the footprint of the turntables it replaces, such as the Elemental or Essential models. This standard dimension means it fits existing decks without requiring any structural modifications to the base or tonearm assembly.
Design and build details
According to the listing, this Pro-Ject Acryl-IT E platter is constructed from transparent acrylic. This material choice replaces the standard medium-density fiberboard found in many entry-level decks. Acrylic is an inert substance that resists resonance. By avoiding the natural vibrational properties of wood-based composites, the platter helps keep unwanted noise away from the stylus. This physical characteristic supports cleaner audio reproduction during playback. The transparent finish allows you to see the drive mechanism below, adding a distinct visual element to your setup.
The physical dimensions are precise. The listing states the platter measures 11.8 inches in width and 11.8 inches in length. Its height is 0.79 inches, creating a low-profile disc that sits flush on the spindle. The total weight is 2.65 pounds. This mass provides stability without being excessively heavy for the motor. The layout includes a specific dent for record labels. This feature ensures proper centering and protects the label from damage during placement.
This upgrade is designed for Elemental, Essential, and Primary turntables. It substitutes the original MDF platter directly. The design focuses on optical and acoustic improvement through material science rather than complex mechanical changes. You get a solid, single-piece disc that fits into existing decks. The build prioritizes rigidity and clarity. This approach suits users who want to enhance their current system without buying a new deck entirely. The simple, robust construction makes it a practical addition to compatible Pro-Ject models.
Setup and everyday use
You install this platter by removing the existing MDF disc from your turntable. The product data lists compatibility with the Pro-Ject Elemental, Essential, and Primary series. You must ensure your deck belongs to one of these specific models before proceeding. The new acrylic unit replaces the original platter directly. It does not require additional motors or complex wiring. You simply place the new disc onto the spindle. The transparent construction allows you to see the drive mechanism below. This visual access helps you monitor the belt or direct drive system during operation. The platter measures 11.8 inches in width and length. Its height is 0.79 inches. The total weight is 2.65 pounds. This mass adds stability compared to lighter materials. The listing notes a dent for the label. This feature keeps vinyl records centered and secure during rotation. You benefit from inert material that avoids resonances. This means less coloration from the platter itself reaching the stylus. Daily use involves standard vinyl playback. You place your record on the flat surface. The acrylic material provides a smooth, hard surface for the record to spin on. This setup supports audiophile sound tuning and optical upvaluation as stated in the features. You do not need to adjust speed settings specifically for this part. It works within the existing speed controls of your deck. The transparent finish requires occasional cleaning to maintain clarity. Dust on the surface can affect visual appeal but not necessarily sound quality. This upgrade focuses on material properties rather than electronic changes. You get a direct mechanical improvement by swapping the disc. The process is straightforward and reversible if you choose to return to the original MDF platter later.
Check compatibility and upkeep
Before you buy, confirm your turntable model. This platter fits only the Elemental, Essential, and Primary series. It does not work with other Pro-Ject decks or different brands. You must remove the existing MDF disc to install this acrylic unit. The transparent design allows you to see the motor and drive mechanism below. You do not need additional tools for basic installation, but handle the clear surface carefully to avoid scratches. Clean it with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use harsh chemicals that might cloud the material. This upgrade sits alongside receivers and other hi-fi components in your system. It improves sound by reducing resonance, but it does not replace your tonearm or cartridge. You still need a quality stylus and a clean record brush. If your current deck has a worn drive belt, replace that too. This platter enhances clarity, but it relies on the rest of your setup. Check your existing components to ensure they match this upgrade’s potential. You get better audio if the whole chain is in good shape.
Check before you buy
- Verify your deck is Elemental, Essential, or Primary.
- Remove the old MDF platter before installation.
- Handle the acrylic surface to prevent scratches.
- Clean with a soft, dry cloth only.
- Ensure your tonearm and cartridge are in good condition.
The product at a glance
Pro-Ject Acryl-IT E Acrylic Turntable Platter
Best for: Pro-Ject turntable resonance reduction
- Platter Material
- Acrylic
- Dimensions
- 11.8 × 11.8 × 0.79 inches
- Weight
- 2.65 pounds
View on Amazon: Pro-Ject Acryl-IT E Acrylic Turntable Platter Affiliate link
The Pro-Ject Acryl-IT E replaces the standard MDF platter on compatible turntables with a transparent acrylic disc. Measuring 11.8 inches in diameter and weighing 2.65 pounds, it uses inert material to reduce resonances. This upgrade targets users of the Elemental, Essential, and Primary models who want to improve sound quality through optical and acoustic tuning.
Pros
- Acrylic platter material substitutes standard MDF
- Inert construction avoids resonances
- Compatible with Elemental, Essential & Primary models
- Includes label dent for easy handling
Cons
- Requires separate purchase as an upgrade part
- Only fits specific Pro-Ject turntable models
- Transparent finish shows fingerprints and dust
Good fit if
- You own a Pro-Ject Elemental, Essential, or Primary turntable
- You want to reduce platter resonance
- You prefer transparent acrylic aesthetics
Skip if
- You need a complete turntable system
- You own a non-Pro-Ject brand turntable
- You want a heavy cast aluminum platter
Verdict: Pro-Ject Acryl-IT E Acrylic Platter is a targeted upgrade for Pro-Ject owners seeking reduced resonance through acrylic construction. It suits those willing to swap their stock platter for better sound tuning.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Pro-Ject Acryl-IT E Acrylic Turntable Platter |
|---|---|
| Platter Material | Acrylic |
| Dimensions | 11.8 × 11.8 × 0.79 inches |
| Weight | 2.65 pounds |
| Color | transparent |
| Model | PACRYLITE |
Frequently asked questions
What is the Pro-Ject Acryl-IT E?
It is a replacement platter made from transparent acrylic. This part is designed to upgrade specific Pro-Ject turntables. It replaces the standard medium-density fiberboard disc. The goal is to reduce resonance and improve sound clarity. You install it by swapping out the original platter.
Which turntables are compatible with this platter?
This platter fits the Pro-Ject Elemental, Essential, and Primary series. It is not universal for all Pro-Ject decks. You must verify your model belongs to one of these three lines. It does not work with other brands or different Pro-Ject models outside this list.
How heavy is the Acryl-IT E platter?
The platter weighs 2.65 pounds. This weight comes from its solid acrylic construction. The dimensions are 11.8 inches in length and width. The height is 0.79 inches. The weight helps stabilize rotation and dampen vibrations during playback.
Is the platter transparent?
Yes, the platter is transparent. This allows you to see the tonearm and record label clearly. The material is acrylic, which provides this visual clarity. The transparent design is a key aesthetic feature of this specific upgrade part.
How do you install this platter?
You install it by removing the existing MDF disc. Place the new acrylic platter onto the spindle. Ensure it sits flat and secure. This process is straightforward if your deck is compatible. No additional tools are typically required beyond removing the old platter.
What material is the platter made of?
It is made of acrylic. This is a dense, inert plastic. Acrylic resists resonance better than standard materials like MDF. This helps reduce unwanted vibrations reaching the stylus. The result is improved audio clarity and detail during playback.