Pro-Ject Audio Essential III Flexi Range Turntables Instructions

Pro-Ject Audio Essential III Flexi Range Turntables

Dear Music Lover,

• Congratulations and thank you for choosing the Pro-Ject Audio Systems record player.
• Your Essential III turntable has been handcrafted and rigorously tested by skilled technicians to give you years of enjoyable, trouble-free service.
• Please contact your dealer if you require additional assistance.

Important

Your turntable was shipped partially disassembled in order to avoid damage to sensitive parts. Please check immediately to make sure that neither the packaging nor the device was damaged in transit. If you are missing parts or if the unit is damaged, please do not operate and contact your dealer.

Please do your part to help protect the environment:

• Disposal of packaging material:
• Pro-Ject packaging is carefully designed to protect your component from damage in transit and you are strongly urged to keep the original packaging in order to safely ship or otherwise transport your turntable in the future.
• However, the packaging materials were chosen to be environmentally friendly, so if you must discard the packaging, please recycle it.

GENERAL INFORMATION

Controls, features, and connections

1. PLATTER & FELT MAT
2. DRIVE PULLEY
3. DRIVE BELT
4. TONEARM COUNTERWEIGHT (4a) DOWNFORCE SCALE
5. TONEARM LIFT LEVER
6. TONEARM REST (66) REMOVABLE TRANSPORT LOCK
7. TONEARM TUBE
8. HEADSHELL WITH FINGER LIFT AND PRE-MOUNTED ORTOFON OM10
9. ANTI-SKATING WEIGHT WITH WIRE
10. ANTI-SKATING WEIGHT SUPPORT HOOP
11. ANTI-SKATING STUB WITH ADJUSTMENT SCALE
12. LID
13. LID HINGES
14. HINGE FASTENERS
15. POWER SUPPLY SOCKET

Accessories

1. ANTI-SKATING WEIGHT
2. HOOK TOOL FOR SPEED CHANGE
3. SINGLE ADAPTOR
4. ALLEN KEY 1,5mm
5. COUNTERWEIGHT no. 00
6. TWO-POINT CARTRIDGE ALIGNMENT PROTRACTOR
7. UNIVERSAL POWER SUPPLY
8. CONNECTION CABLE (CONNECT IT E RCA)
9. INSTRUCTION FOR USE

SETUP

Platter and drive belt installation
Please remove the brown paper insert which holds the platter in the transport position. Put the felt mat on the top of the platter. Install the drive belt as shown in the following illustration.

Cartridge installation, stylus exchange

If you purchased this turntable in a package that included the cartridge, this has already been done for you. Install the cartridge into the aluminum headshell, using the appropriate hardware included with your cartridge. All cartridges with half-inch mounting holes can be fitted.
Connect the cartridge as indicated below:

• White left channel L+
• Red right channel R+
• Green right channel R-
• Blue left channel L-

For correct cartridge alignment, use the two-point cartridge alignment protractor provided with your Essential III accessories. If unfamiliar with a two-point setup, please refer to your dealer. A damaged or worn stylus may harm your record collection and should be replaced. Please remove stylus protection before pulling the stylus from the cartridge and replace for a new one. Stylus type is exchanged for pre-mounted cartridge Ortofon OM 10: Stylus OM 10. If in doubt, consult your local dealer or distributor.

Vertical Tracking Force setting (VTF)

Before setting the Vertical Tracking Force, confirm the exact weight of your cartridge. The counterweight supplied (no. 00) is suitable for cartridges from 3,5 to 5,5g. An alternative counterweight (no. 01) for cartridges between 6 – 9g is available on request. Pushing carefully, turn the counterweight onto the rear end of the tonearm tube. With the tonearm lift in the lower position, carefully rotate the counterweight until the tonearm tube balances out. Once the tonearm is correctly balanced, return it to the rest. Hold the counterweight without moving it, and gently revolve the downforce scale ring until the zero is in line with the anti-skating stub. Rotate the counterweight counterclockwise (seen from the front) to adjust the downforce according to the cartridge manufacturer’s recommendations. One mark on the scale represents 1 mN (= 0,1g / 0,1 Pond) of downforce.

Please note: Adjust the VTF prior to installing the anti-skating weight.

Anti-skating force adjustment
Hang the loop of the thread of the anti-skating weight in the groove of the anti-skating stub corresponding to the downforce applied to your cartridge and feed the thread through the loop of the wire support. The anti-skating force must be adjusted corresponding to the downforce as follows:

VTF Groove in the stub

• 10 – 14mN 1st from bearing rings
• 15 – 19mN 2nd ” ” “
• 20mN and bigger 3rd ” ” “

Azimuth setting
The cartridge needle must be perpendicular to the record in order to trace the groove wall modulations correctly. The azimuth (angle) is precisely set by the factory. In the event that you need to modify this setting, however, follow the instructions below. Loosen the small azimuth screw, again using the 1.5 mm Allen key.

DO NOT REMOVE THE AZIMUTH SET SCREW COMPLETELY!
Loosen the screw just enough to be able to gently rotate the arm tube and set the azimuth to the correct position. The correct position can be checked from the front view, preferably with the needle placed on a mirror placed on the platter. Once the azimuth setting is correct, gently re-tighten the azimuth setting screw.

ESSENTIAL III

SPECIFIC INFORMATION

Controls, features, and connections

1. ON/OFF SWITCH
2. STEPPED DRIVE PULLEY
3. OUTPUT CABLE CONNECTS IT E

Switching on and off
Pressing the ON/OFF switch alternately starts or stops the motor.

Changing replay speed
To play 45 r.p.m., put the drive belt over the larger diameter part of the motor pulley. To revert to 33 r.p.m. repeat the proceedings using the smaller step on the pulley.

Connection to the amplifier
The record player has a captive tonearm signal lead for connection to the amplifier. Use the Phono input on your amplifier. Make sure that the phono input offers correct matching and amplification for the type of cartridge used. Line inputs (such as CD, Tuner, Tape or Video) are not suitable. Take care to connect the left and right channels correctly. The right channel is usually marked red, the left channel is black or white. Check the manual supplied with your amplifier for relevant information. The earthing wire of the tonearm lead should be connected to the earth terminal on your amplifier (if provided). If your amplifier does not have an input suitable for phono cartridges you will require a separate phono amplifier stage for MM or MC cartridges which is then connected between the record player and a free line level input of the amplifier.

Controls, features, and connections

1. ON/OFF SWITCH
2. STEPPED DRIVE PULLEY
3. PHONO/LINE OUTPUT, EARTH CONNECTION
4. BLUETOOTH SWITCH

Switching on and off
Pressing the ON/OFF switch alternately starts or stops the motor.

Changing replay speed
To play 45 r.p.m., put the drive belt over the larger diameter part of the motor pulley. To revert to 33 r.p.m. repeat the proceedings using the smaller step on the pulley.

Connection to the amplifier
The record player has two possible outputs – Line OUT with integrated preamplifier and Phono OUT for connection to the preamplifier. If you choose Phono OUT, than use the Phono input (sometimes labeled gram, disc, or RIAA) on your amplifier. Make sure that the phono input offers correct matching and amplification for the type of cartridge used. If you choose Line OUT, than use the Line inputs (like CD, Tuner, Tape, or Video). Take care about connecting the left and right channels correctly. The right channel is usually marked red, the left channel is black or white. Check the manual of your amplifier for relevant information. An earthing wire may be connected to the screw terminal between the sockets if you encounter humming problems.

Bluetooth pairing
The record player has Bluetooth output and transmits signal automatically when is connected to mains. It is paired automatically with any device with a Bluetooth receiver (such as Pro-Ject MaiA, MaiA DS, Bluetooth Box s, and Bluetooth Box E). For pairing with other devices and portable speakers use the manual of the given product. To restart of the Bluetooth transmitter, please turn OFF and ON the Bluetooth module by using the switch. Restart is needed only when there is a change of the Bluetooth receiver.

Controls, features and connections

1. ON/OFF SWITCH
2. STEPPED DRIVE PULLEY
3. PHONO/LINE OUTPUT, EARTH CONNECTION
4. PHONO/LINE OUTPUT SWITCH

Switching on and off
Pressing the ON/OFF switch alternately starts or stops the motor.

Changing replay speed
To play 45 r.p.m., put the drive belt over the larger diameter part of the motor pulley. To revert to 33 r.p.m. repeat the proceedings using the smaller step on the pulley.

Connection to the amplifier
The record player has gold-plated female RCA phono sockets and the possibility to choose between Phono and LINE output. With LINE OUT on, you can use a line input (such as AUX, CD, Tuner, Tape or Video) on your amplifier. With PHONO OUT on, you can use your own phono pre-amplifier (sometimes labeled gram, disc or RIAA).

Take care to connect the left and right channels correctly. The right channel is usually marked red, the left channel is black or white. The earthing wire of the tonearm lead should be connected to the earth terminal on your amplifier (if provided).

Controls, features and connections

1. SPEED CONTROL
2. DRIVE PULLEY
3. PHONO OUTPUT, EARTH CONNECTION

Switching on and off, changing replay speed
To play records at 33 r.p.m. press the speed control switch to start the motor. Pressing the ON/OFF switch two times selects 45 r.p.m.. The selected speed is shown respectively by the flashing LED. When the platter has attained full speed, the LEDs stop flashing. A long (more than three seconds) press on the ON/OFF switch stops the motor.

Connection to the amplifier
Connect the tonearm cable provided with the accessories to the RCA tonearm output that is located at the rear of the turntable, behind the tonearm. Connect the grounding cable on the earth connection screw. If your amplifier does not have an input suitable for phono cartridges you will require a separate phono amplifier stage for MM or MC cartridges which is then connected between the record player and a free line level input of the amplifier.

1. ON/OFF SWITCH
2. STEPPED DRIVE PULLEY
3. PHONO/LINE OUTPUT, EARTH CONNECTION
4. PHONO/LINE OUTPUT SWITCH
5. DIGITAL OUTPUT SWITCH (24bit/48kHz or 24bit/96kHz)

Switching on and off
Pressing the ON/OFF switch alternately starts or stops the motor.

Changing replay speed
To play 45 r.p.m., put the drive belt over the larger diameter part of the motor pulley. To revert to 33 r.p.m. repeat the proceedings using the smaller step on the pulley.

Connection to the amplifier
The record player has two possibilities of connection to the amplifier.

The analog output:
The record player has gold-plated female RCA phono sockets and the possibility to choose between Phono and LINE output. With LINE OUT on, you can use a line input (such as AUX, CD, Tuner, Tape or Video) on your amplifier. With PHONO OUT on, you can use your own phono pre-amplifier (sometimes labeled gram, disc or RIAA).

Take care to connect the left and right channels correctly. The right channel is usually marked red, and the left channel is black or white. The earthing wire of the tonearm lead should be connected to the earth terminal on your amplifier (if provided).
The digital output
The record player has digital S/PDIF output through an optical connector with a switch between 24bit/48kHz and 24bit/96kHz. Use the optical input on your amplifier, AV receiver or D/A converter. The optical cable is not supplied with the record player. Your dealer can help you with a selection of optical cables.

1. SPEED CONTROL
2. DRIVE PULLEY
3. PHONO/LINE OUTPUT, EARTH CONNECTION
4. PHONO/LINE OUTPUT SWITCH

Switching on and off, changing replay speed

• To play records at 33 r.p.m. press the speed control switch to start the motor. Pressing the ON/OFF switch two times selects 45 r.p.m.. The selected speed is shown respectively by the flashing
• LED. When the platter has attained full speed, the LEDs stop flashing.
• A long (more than three seconds) press on the ON/OFF switch stops the motor.

Connection to the amplifier
The record player has gold-plated female RCA phono sockets (14) and the possibility to choose between Phono and LINE output. With LINE OUT on, you can use a line input (such as AUX, CD, Tuner, Tape or Video) on your amplifier. With PHONO OUT on, you can use your own phono pre-amplifier (sometimes labeled gram, disc or RIAA).

Take care to connect the left and right channels correctly. The right channel is usually marked red, the left channel is black or white. The earthing wire of the tonearm lead should be connected to the earth terminal on your amplifier (if provided).

Connecting to a Computer
Connect the USB output of the unit to a free USB socket on your computer and turn it on/make sure it is powered on. The “new hardware found assistant“ will automatically detect the unit and announces it as a Microphone USB audio codec. There is no need to install a driver manually. After installation, one set has to be done. For example – Windows 7® operating system:   Control Panel.   Sound. Recording. Microphone USB Audio CODEC. Properties. Advanced: set to 2 channel, 16 bit, 48000 Hz (DVD Quality) Please note: Connection should be made to a USB socket of your computer directly. Connecting to USB hubs or switches can cause problems.

Recording Programme
In case you do not have a recording program installed on your computer, you may download one free from the Internet. Recording programs may be found by searching Google. In the menu of the recording program, the source or input may have to be set to a Microphone USB audio codec. Please be aware that downloads from the Internet are made entirely at your own risk. Under no circumstances can we carry responsibility or provide support for third-party software products sourced from the internet or for any damage or problems arising from the use thereof. All downloads should be checked with an up-to- date anti-virus program. License fees may be applicable.

Technical specifications

Technical specifications Pro-Ject Essential III Flexi-Range / Pro-Ject 8.6

• Nominal speeds: 33/45 r.p.m.
• Speed variance: 33: ±0,70% 45: ±0,60%
• Wow and flutter: 33: ±0,21% 45: ±0,19%
• Signal to noise: -66dB
• Effective tonearm mass: 8,0g
• Effective tonearm length: 8,6″ (218,5mm)
• Overhang: 22,0mm
• Power consumption: 4,5W
• Outboard power supply: 15V/500mA DC, suitable for your country’s mains supply
• Dimensions (W x H x D): 420 x 112 x 330mm
• Weight: 5,0kg
• Dimensions packaging: (W x H x D) 488 x 235 x 393mm
• Weight incl. packaging: 7,0kg

Technical specifications MM-Cartridge Ortofon OM 10

• Frequency range: 20-22.000Hz
• Channel separation: 22dB/1kHz
• Output voltage: 4mV
• Recommended load impedance: 47kohms/amplifier connection – MM-input
• Compliance/stylus type: 20μm/mN – elliptical
• Recommended tracking force: 15mN
• Weight: 5g

Technical specifications MM phono pre-amplifier (Essential III Digital)

• Gain: 34dB
• Output voltage typically: 160mV/1kHz at 4mV/1kHz input
• Input impedance: 47kohms/100pF
• Noise floor: >73dB
• Riaa-equalization curve accuracy: 20Hz-20kHz / max. 0,5dB
• Optical output: 24/48 kHz or 24/96 kHz (bit depth/sampling frequency)

Technical specifications MM phono pre-amplifier (Essential III Phono, RecordMaster)

• Gain: 34dB
• Output voltage typically: 200mV/1kHz at 5mV/1kHz input
• Input impedance: 47kohms/100pF
• Noise floor: -68dB
• Riaa-equalization curve accuracy: 20Hz-20kHz / max. 0,5dB
• Weight: 2,8 kg

Bluetooth

Maximum transmits power per operated frequency band: Class II, 2.5mW (4dBm) per 2.4GHz – 2.48 GHz

Potential incorrect use and fault conditions
Pro-Ject turntables are manufactured to the highest standards and undergo strict quality controls before leaving the factory. Faults that may possibly occur are not necessarily due to material or production faults but can sometimes be caused by incorrect use or unfortunate circumstances. Therefore the following list of common fault symptoms is included.

The platter doesn’t turn although the unit is switched on:

• The unit is not connected to the main power supply.
• No mains at the socket.
• The drive belt is not fitted or has slipped off.

No signal through one or other channel or both channels:

• No signal contact from the cartridge to the internal tonearm wiring or from that to the arm lead or from that to the phono box or between that and the amplifier. This could be due to a faulty plug, broken wire or solder joint or simply a loose plug/socket connection.
• Phono input not selected at the amplifier.
• The amplifier is not switched on.
• Amplifiers or speakers are defective or muted.
• No connection to the loudspeakers.

Strong hum on phono input: No earth connection from cartridge or arm or arm cable to amplifier, or earth loop. Distorted or inconsistent sound from one or both channels: The record player is connected to the wrong input of the amplifier, or the MM/MC switch is incorrectly set. Needle or cantilever damaged. Wrong r.p.m., drive belt overstretched or dirty, platter bearing without oil, dirty or damaged

Service
Should you encounter a problem that you are not able to alleviate or identify despite the above information, please contact your dealer for further advice. Only when the problem cannot be resolved there should the unit be sent to the responsible distributor in your country. Guarantee repairs will only be affected if the unit is returned correctly packaged. For this reason, we recommend keeping the original packaging. Never return a record player without making sure that is it safely disassembled and correctly packaged in the original packaging according to the diagrams on the last page of this user guide. Please remove these parts and pack them separately: lid, counterweight, anti-skating weight and belt. Fit the cartridge protection cap and the transport lock for the tonearm tube, prior to carefully packaging the record player.

Warranty

The manufacturer accepts no responsibility for damage caused by not adhering to these instructions for use and/or by transportation without the original packaging. Modification or change to any part of the product by unauthorized persons, release the manufacturer from any liability over and above the lawful rights of the customer.

• Pro-Ject Audio Systems is a Registered Trademark of
• H. Lichtenegger.
• This guide was produced by: Pro-Ject Audio Systems
• Copyright © 2017. All rights reserved.

The information was correct at the time of going to press. The manufacturer reserves the right to make changes to the technical specification without prior notice as deemed necessary to uphold the ongoing process of technical development.

DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY

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