Looking Beyond the Pro-Ject Automat A1 Fully Automatic Turntable? 6 Alternatives Worth a Look

How these alternatives compare to the A1

Pro-Ject Automat A1.2 Fully Automatic Turntable

The Pro-Ject Automat A1.2 retains the fully automatic operation and Ortofon OM10 cartridge found in the original model. It serves as a direct successor in the same lineup. The primary difference lies in the internal circuitry and component updates that define the A1.2 iteration. You get the same convenient automation for lifting and lowering the tonearm without manual intervention. The build quality remains consistent with Pro-Ject’s standards for reliable analog playback. This option suits you if you want the latest iteration of this specific fully automatic design. It offers a familiar workflow with refined internal performance. The lack of Bluetooth keeps the signal path clean for purists who prefer wired connections to their amplifiers.

FiiO Fully Automatic 2-Speed Turntable

The FiiO TT11 introduces Bluetooth connectivity, a feature absent from the Pro-Ject Automat A1. This allows you to stream vinyl audio wirelessly to headphones or speakers. It also features a fully automatic operation similar to the original. The aluminum platter provides a stable platform for record rotation. You gain the convenience of wireless listening but lose the dedicated gold-plated RCA phono stage output of the Pro-Ject. The FiiO integrates its own preamp stages for direct connection to powered speakers. This choice fits you if wireless flexibility is a priority. The weight is slightly lower at 11.7 pounds compared to the A1. It prioritizes modern convenience over the specific analog signal chain of the Pro-Ject.

Audio-Technica Fully Automatic Belt-Drive Turntable

The Audio-Technica AT-LP60X focuses on simplicity and entry-level accessibility. It features a fully automatic operation that handles record playback without manual steps. The belt drive mechanism differs from the direct drive often found in higher-end models. It lacks the premium Ortofon OM10 cartridge, using a standard moving magnet unit instead. The build is compact and lightweight at 8.11 pounds. You sacrifice the aluminum tonearm and high-quality phono stage of the Pro-Ject for a lower price point and easier setup. This model suits beginners who want a no-fuss experience. It does not offer the same level of component quality or tonearm precision. It is a practical choice for those prioritizing ease of use over audiophile-grade specifications.

Sony Fully Automatic Bluetooth Turntable

The Sony PS-LX3BT combines fully automatic operation with Bluetooth connectivity. This allows for wireless audio streaming, a feature the Pro-Ject Automat A1 does not include. It features an aluminum tonearm and a built-in phono stage for direct connection to powered speakers. The automatic functions handle tonearm movement seamlessly. You gain wireless flexibility but give up the specific 8.3-inch aluminum tonearm and Ortofon OM10 cartridge of the Pro-Ject. The Sony is lighter at 7.72 pounds and has a compact footprint. This option fits you if you want to listen wirelessly while maintaining automatic convenience. It provides a modern, streamlined approach to vinyl playback without the need for complex wiring setups.

Denon Fully Automatic Turntable

The Denon DP-29F offers fully automatic playback with a focus on direct amplifier connectivity. It includes a built-in phono stage for easy connection to receivers without external preamps. The design is straightforward and functional. It lacks the aluminum tonearm and Ortofon cartridge of the Pro-Ject Automat A1. The Denon is lighter at 6.2 pounds and has a smaller footprint. You prioritize reliable automatic operation and direct analog connection over premium components. This model suits listeners who want a simple, no-nonsense fully automatic turntable. It does not offer Bluetooth or wireless features. The build is utilitarian, focusing on core functionality rather than high-end materials or advanced automation refinements found in the Pro-Ject.

Sony PS-LX5BT Fully Automatic Turntable

The Sony PS-LX5BT provides fully automatic operation with dual Bluetooth connectivity options. This allows for versatile wireless listening setups. It includes an aluminum tonearm and a built-in phono stage. The automatic functions ensure hands-free playback. You gain wireless flexibility but lose the Ortofon OM10 cartridge and specific tonearm design of the Pro-Ject. The Sony is slightly heavier at 12.8 pounds. This choice fits you if you want advanced wireless features alongside automatic convenience. It offers a modern approach to vinyl playback with multiple connectivity paths. The lack of the specific Pro-Ject components means a different sonic character. It prioritizes wireless integration and ease of use for contemporary audio systems.

Quick picks

Our 7 picks

1 Best overall

Pro-Ject Automat A1 Turntable with Phono Stage

Best for: automatic vinyl playback with built-in phono stage

Operation

Fully automatic

Speeds

33, 45 RPM

Connectivity

Gold plated RCA output

Preamp

Built-in switchable MM phono stage

Platter Material

Damped metal

Cartridge

Ortofon OM10, elliptical stylus

View on Amazon: Pro-Ject Automat A1 Turntable with Phono Stage

The Pro-Ject Automat A1 is a fully automatic turntable designed for convenience without sacrificing core audio quality. It features an 8.3-inch aluminum tonearm with a carbon fiber headshell and an Ortofon OM10 cartridge with an elliptical stylus. A built-in switchable moving magnet phono stage allows direct connection to powered speakers. The resonance-damped wooden chassis and damped metal platter help reduce wow and flutter for stable playback at 33 and 45 RPM.

Pros

• Fully automatic operation with electronic speed control
• Built-in switchable MM phono stage with gold-plated RCA outputs
• 8.3-inch aluminum tonearm with carbon fiber reinforced headshell
• Ortofon OM10 cartridge with elliptical stylus profile
• Resonance-damped wooden chassis and damped metal platter

Cons

• Only includes RCA output, requiring a separate amplifier or receiver
• No Bluetooth connectivity for wireless audio streaming
• Fixed speed settings limited to 33 and 45 RPM

Good fit if

• You want a fully automatic turntable with a built-in phono stage
• You prefer a wooden chassis for resonance damping
• You need reliable 33 and 45 RPM playback

Skip if

• You require Bluetooth connectivity for wireless listening
• You need a turntable with a built-in speaker
• You prefer a manual operation style

Verdict: Pro-Ject Automat A1 Fully Automatic Turntable offers a solid blend of automation and quality components for listeners who want convenience without extra cables. It is ideal for those who already have a receiver or amplifier and want a simple, high-fidelity setup.

2 Best premium

Pro-Ject Automat A1.2 Fully Automatic Turntable

Best for: listeners seeking premium fully automatic vinyl playback

Operation

Fully automatic

Speeds

33, 45 RPM

Preamp

Built-in switchable phono preamp

Platter Material

Die-cast aluminum

Cartridge

Ortofon OM10 moving magnet

Tonearm

8.3-inch aluminum

View on Amazon: Pro-Ject Automat A1.2 Fully Automatic Turntable

The Pro-Ject Automat A1.2 is a fully automatic turntable featuring an ultra-light 8.3-inch aluminum tonearm. It includes an Ortofon OM10 moving magnet cartridge and a die-cast aluminum platter for stable playback. You get built-in switchable phono preamp support and push-button electronic speed control for 33 and 45 RPM. This model suits listeners who want high-quality vinyl performance with convenient, automated operation.

Pros

• Fully automatic start and stop operation
• Ortofon OM10 moving magnet cartridge included
• Ultra-light 8.3-inch aluminum tonearm
• Built-in switchable phono preamp

Cons

• No Bluetooth connectivity for wireless streaming
• Lacks a remote control for operation
• Only supports 33 and 45 RPM speeds

Good fit if

• You want fully automatic convenience with high-fidelity components
• You prefer a switchable phono stage for flexible system setup
• You value an aluminum tonearm for detailed sound reproduction

Skip if

• You require Bluetooth connectivity for wireless playback
• You need a remote control for operation
• You want to play 78 RPM records

Verdict: The Pro-Ject Automat A1.2 Automatic Turntable delivers reliable fully automatic performance with a quality Ortofon OM10 cartridge. It fits you if you prioritize precise analog sound and convenient automation over wireless features.

3 Best budget

FiiO Fully Automatic 2-Speed Turntable

Best for: Wireless vinyl listening with automation

Operation

Fully automatic

Speeds

33-1/3, 45 RPM

Connectivity

Bluetooth SBC, line, phono

Preamp

Built-in

Platter Material

Aluminum alloy

Color

Black

View on Amazon: FiiO Fully Automatic 2-Speed Turntable

The FiiO TT11 is a fully automatic turntable featuring Bluetooth SBC connectivity and a built-in preamp. It uses a solid aluminum alloy platter for stable rotation and dual TI NE5532 op-amps for signal amplification. You get line and phono outputs for flexible system integration. This model supports 33 1/3 and 45 RPM speeds. It suits listeners who want wireless audio options and automated operation without manual tonearm handling.

Pros

• Fully automatic operation with repeat playback
• Bluetooth SBC wireless connectivity
• Built-in preamp with line and phono output switch
• Solid aluminum alloy platter
• Dual TI NE5532 op-amps

Cons

• Only supports Bluetooth SBC codec
• No variable speed control listed
• Heavier build at 11.7 pounds

Good fit if

• You want fully automatic playback
• You need Bluetooth wireless listening
• You prefer a built-in preamp

Skip if

• You require aptX or LDAC support
• You need a lightweight portable design
• You want manual tonearm operation

Verdict: The FiiO TT11 Fully Automatic Bluetooth Turntable fits users who prioritize wireless convenience and automated operation. Its aluminum platter and dual op-amps provide stable, detailed sound for modern setups.

4 Best belt drive

Audio-Technica Fully Automatic Belt-Drive Turntable

Best for: beginners seeking simple, automatic vinyl playback

Drive Type

Belt-drive

Operation

Fully automatic

Speeds

33-1/3, 45 RPM

Connectivity

RCA

Preamp

Built-in switchable phono preamp

Platter Material

Die-cast aluminum

View on Amazon: Audio-Technica Fully Automatic Belt-Drive Turntable

The Audio-Technica AT-LP60X is a fully automatic belt-drive turntable designed for straightforward vinyl playback. It features a die-cast aluminum platter and a redesigned tonearm to reduce resonance. The unit includes a built-in switchable phono pre-amplifier, allowing you to connect directly to speakers or a receiver. It supports 33-1/3 and 45 RPM speeds, making it a practical option for listeners who want high-fidelity audio without manual intervention.

Pros

• Fully automatic operation with automatic start and stop
• Built-in switchable phono pre-amplifier for flexible connectivity
• Die-cast aluminum platter reduces unwanted resonance
• Redesigned tonearm base and headshell for improved tracking

Cons

• Lacks built-in Bluetooth connectivity found in newer models
• Integrated cartridge requires stylus replacement rather than full cartridge swap
• No variable speed control for pitch adjustment

Good fit if

• You want a fully automatic turntable that requires minimal setup
• You need a built-in preamp to connect to powered speakers
• You prefer a compact, lightweight design for limited space

Skip if

• You require wireless Bluetooth streaming from your vinyl records
• You want to upgrade the cartridge with a high-end replaceable unit
• You need precise variable speed control for pitch matching

Verdict: Audio-Technica AT-LP60X Fully Automatic is a reliable entry-level choice for beginners who value ease of use and solid build quality over advanced features like Bluetooth or variable speed.

5 Also great

Sony Fully Automatic Bluetooth Turntable

Best for: Wireless vinyl listeners seeking simplicity

Drive Type

Belt-drive

Operation

Fully automatic

Speeds

33 1/3, 45 rpm

Connectivity

Bluetooth (aptX adaptive), audio cable

Preamp

Built-in switchable phono EQ

Platter Material

Die-cast aluminum

View on Amazon: Sony Fully Automatic Bluetooth Turntable

The Sony PS-LX3BT is a fully automatic turntable with built-in Bluetooth. It features a pivot bearing aluminum tonearm and a moving magnet cartridge with 3.5g stylus pressure. A silver aluminum die cast platter ensures stable rotation. The built-in switchable phono EQ allows direct connection to receivers or powered speakers. You get one-step auto start, stop, and return for simple operation.

Pros

• Built-in switchable phono EQ for flexible connectivity
• Bluetooth wireless connection to speakers and headphones
• Pivot bearing aluminum tonearm for accurate tracking
• Fully automatic operation with auto start and return

Cons

• Only supports 33 1/3 and 45 RPM speeds
• Fixed stylus pressure of 3.5±0.5g
• No variable speed control listed in specifications

Good fit if

• You want wireless playback to Bluetooth speakers
• You prefer fully automatic operation without manual intervention
• You need a built-in phono preamp for direct receiver connection

Skip if

• You require variable speed control for pitch adjustment
• You need a high-end replaceable cartridge system
• You want a turntable with a heavier, more robust platter material

Verdict: Sony PS-LX3BT Bluetooth Turntable fits listeners who want simple, wireless vinyl playback with automatic functions. It delivers clear audio through its aluminum tonearm and built-in phono stage for easy setup.

6 Also great

Denon Fully Automatic Turntable

Best for: listeners wanting automatic playback and direct amp connection

Operation

Fully automatic

Speeds

33 1/3, 45 rpm

Connectivity

Analog cable

Preamp

Built-in RIAA phono equalizer

Platter Material

Diecast aluminum

Cartridge

MM Cartridge

View on Amazon: Denon Fully Automatic Turntable

The Denon DP-29F is a fully automatic turntable featuring a diecast aluminum platter and a DC servo motor. It supports 33 1/3 and 45 RPM speeds. A built-in switchable phono preamp lets you connect directly to amplifiers without extra gear. The automatic tonearm returns to rest after playback, protecting your vinyl. A manual lifter allows precise track selection. This model suits listeners who want reliable, high-fidelity analog playback with minimal manual effort.

Pros

• Fully automatic operation with automatic tonearm return
• Built-in switchable phono preamp for direct amplifier connection
• Diecast aluminum platter for stable rotation
• DC servo motor for consistent speed
• Manual lifter for precise needle placement

Cons

• No Bluetooth or wireless connectivity
• No USB digitization capability
• Fixed 33 1/3 and 45 RPM speeds only

Good fit if

• You want fully automatic operation without manual tonearm handling
• You need a built-in phono preamp for direct receiver connection
• You prefer a sturdy diecast aluminum platter for stability

Skip if

• You require Bluetooth wireless streaming
• You want to digitize records via USB
• You need variable speed control beyond standard speeds

Verdict: Denon DP-29F Fully Automatic Turntable delivers solid analog performance for users who prioritize convenience and direct connectivity. It fits listeners who want automatic operation and a built-in preamp without needing wireless features.

7 Also great

Sony PS-LX5BT Fully Automatic Turntable

Best for: Listeners wanting automatic playback and Bluetooth options

Speeds

33 1/3, 45 rpm

Connectivity

Bluetooth (aptX adaptive), gold RCA

Preamp

Built-in phono EQ

Platter Material

Die-cast aluminum

Cartridge

High-precision moving magnet

Tonearm

Pivot bearing aluminum

View on Amazon: Sony PS-LX5BT Fully Automatic Turntable

The Sony PS-LX5BT is a fully automatic turntable featuring Bluetooth connectivity and a built-in phono preamp. It uses a moving magnet cartridge with 2.0±0.5g stylus pressure and a precision pivot aluminum tonearm. The die-cast aluminum platter and vibration-controlled chassis aim for stable playback. This model suits listeners who want wireless options alongside wired connections to receivers or speakers.

Pros

• Fully automatic one-step start, stop, and return operation
• Built-in phono EQ for direct connection to powered speakers
• Bluetooth wireless connectivity for headphones or speakers
• Precision pivot bearing aluminum tonearm for reduced distortion
• Die-cast aluminum platter for smooth, stable rotation

Cons

• Heavier at 12.8 pounds compared to lighter belt-drive models
• Moving magnet cartridge lacks the higher output of moving coil designs
• No remote control included in the specifications

Good fit if

• You want fully automatic playback without manual intervention
• You need Bluetooth connectivity for wireless listening
• You prefer a wired connection to a receiver with a built-in phono stage

Skip if

• You require a remote control for operation
• You prefer a manual turntable for full control over tonearm movement
• You need a lighter unit under 10 pounds for easy transport

Verdict: The Sony PS-LX5BT Wireless Turntable fits users who prioritize convenience and wireless flexibility. Its automatic features and dual connectivity options make it a solid choice for modern setups.

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