Pro-Ject T1 Phono SB Budget Reference Turntable - Gloss Black - Ortofon OM5e

An Award-Winning Turntable, Now in Its Final Run

The T1 Phono SB pairs a built-in MM phono preamp with premium materials and push-button speed control, at a genuinely affordable price. This generation has since been succeeded by the T1 EVO Phono — the T1 Phono SB shown here is the outgoing design, while remaining stock lasts.

The CNC-machined plinth has no plastic parts and no hollow spaces inside, and a heavy 8mm blasted-glass platter avoids the resonance issues of plastic or lightweight steel designs. Purpose-chosen feet isolate the whole turntable from ambient vibration.

The T1 Phono SB won Absolute Sound's 2023 Golden Ear award, and was reviewed favorably by Hi-Fi Choice, analogplanet.com, and SoundStage! Hi-Fi, all of them pointing to the same easy recommendation.

A Built-In Phono Preamp and an AC-Driven Motor

Built-In Phono Preamp with Push-Button Speed

Stepping up from the base T1, the Phono SB adds a built-in, Pro-Ject-designed MM phono stage, so you can connect straight to a line-level input on a receiver or integrated amp with no outboard phono preamp required.

Speed changes electronically between 33 and 45rpm at the push of a button, driven by a regulated, precision-speed AC motor rather than the unregulated DC motors more common at this price.

An 8.6-Inch Tonearm and a Precision Bearing

The one-piece, 8.6-inch aluminum tonearm has a straight design and an integrated headshell, trading quick cartridge swaps for a cleaner look and noticeably fewer added vibrations than a detachable, screwed-on headshell overall.

Underneath, the sub-platter rides on an ultra-precise, 0.001mm-tolerance main bearing with a hardened steel axle and brass bushing, for a smooth, anti-resonant rotational platform beneath every single record you own.

What Reviewers Are Saying

Absolute Sound gave the T1 Phono SB its 2023 Golden Ear award, calling it "an attractive entry-level turntable" that's "highly recommended for anyone getting into vinyl for the first time."

Reviewing it for Hi-Fi Choice, Ed Selley called it "one of the best-looking affordable turntables" available, writing that "the T1 Phono SB is ideal" for a first serious system.

"Everything about this low cost, full featured Pro-Ject turntable impressed," wrote Michael Fremer for analogplanet.com. "Made in the Czech Republic. No plastic parts. Easy recommendation."

Who Is the T1 Phono SB Best For?

• You want a decorated turntable while stock remains — Absolute Sound, Hi-Fi Choice, and analogplanet.com all recognized this exact deck
• Your amp or receiver has no phono input — the built-in MM phono preamp handles that without an outboard box
• You want a cartridge already installed and aligned — the Ortofon OM5e arrives factory-mounted, ready to play
• You want push-button speed change — 33 and 45rpm switch electronically, with no belt to move by hand
• You want the newest cartridge and Bluetooth as an option — the current T1 EVO Phono and T1 EVO BT both add that in the finishes still being made today

How Does It Connect to Your System?

Connect the included semi-symmetrical, low-capacitance phono cable to a standard line-level input on your receiver or integrated amp — the built-in phono preamp handles the rest.

If you'd rather use an outboard phono preamp or an amp's own MM phono input, the T1 Phono SB's phono stage can be bypassed to send the cartridge signal out unamplified.

Pairs Well With

Where the T1 Phono SB goes from here:

• Integrated amplifiers — to complete a simple, no-fuss system
• Phono preamplifiers — only if you'd rather bypass the built-in stage for one you already own
• Audio racks — a rigid, level shelf gives the glass platter a stable foundation
• Record cleaning accessories — clean records sound better and protect the stylus

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the T1 Phono SB include a cartridge?

Yes. A factory-installed Ortofon OM5e moving-magnet cartridge with an elliptical stylus comes standard.

Do I need a separate phono preamp?

You don't. A built-in, defeatable MM phono stage lets you connect straight to a line-level input; switch it off if you'd rather use your own outboard preamp.

How do I change speeds?

Flip the switch. Both 33 and 45rpm are electronic, driven by a regulated AC motor rather than a belt you reposition by hand.

Is this the current T1 Phono model?

It's the outgoing generation. The T1 EVO Phono has succeeded it with a newer Ortofon cartridge, though the Phono SB's own tonearm and bearing remain genuinely well-regarded.

What comes in the box?

The turntable with cartridge installed, a felt mat, a dust cover, a 7-inch adapter, an Allen key, a stylus pressure gauge, and the power supply.

What's the warranty?

A two-year limited manufacturer warranty covers the T1 Phono SB.

See It in Action

Pro-Ject presents the design and engineering behind the T1 series:

cheapaudioman reviews the T1 Phono SB:

Why Audio Advisor?

• 40+ Years of Expertise — Since 1981, we've helped over a million music lovers find the right gear.
• 60-Day Money-Back Guarantee — Take your time. Listen, enjoy, and make sure it's right for you.
• Real Experts, Real Help — Our team is here to answer your questions at 800-942-0220, weekdays 9am–6pm EST.
• Free Shipping — On orders over $49, delivered to your door.
• Flexible Payment Options — Financing available so you can start listening now.

Learn More

Want to learn more about turntable setup, cartridge care, or choosing an integrated amplifier? Visit our Learning Center for guides, tips, and expert advice.