Pro-Ject Debut III Phono SB Turntable User Manual

Introduction

Welcome to the user manual for your new Pro-Ject Debut III Phono SB Audiophile Turntable. This manual provides essential information for setting up, operating, and maintaining your turntable to ensure optimal performance and longevity. Please read these instructions carefully before first use.

Figure 1: Pro-Ject Debut III Phono SB Turntable (Walnut)

The Pro-Ject Debut III Phono SB is an audiophile-grade turntable featuring an 8.6" aluminum tonearm, electronic speed selection, and a pre-mounted Ortofon OM5e phono cartridge. It includes a built-in phono preamp for versatile connectivity.

Package Contents

Before beginning setup, please ensure all components listed below are present in your package:

• Pro-Ject Debut III Phono SB Turntable
• Dustcover
• Felt Mat
• Power Supply
• RCA Cable (semi-balanced shielded audio cable, 1.23m)
• Standard Flat Belt (for 33/45 RPM)
• Cartridge Alignment Protractor
• Round Belt (for 78 RPM)
• Anti-Skating Weight
• Adapter for 7" Singles
• Ortofon OM5e Phono Cartridge (pre-mounted)

Setup Instructions

Follow these steps carefully to set up your turntable.

1. Placement

Place the turntable on a stable, level surface away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and strong vibrations. Ensure adequate ventilation around the unit.

2. Platter and Belt Installation

1. Carefully place the heavy steel platter onto the turntable spindle.
2. Locate the drive motor pulley. Gently stretch the standard flat belt (for 33/45 RPM) around the motor pulley and the inner rim of the platter. For 78 RPM playback, use the round belt.

Figure 2: Turntable Platter

Ensure the drive belt is correctly seated around the motor pulley and the platter's inner rim for stable rotation.

3. Tonearm and Cartridge Setup

Your Ortofon OM5e cartridge is pre-mounted and pre-adjusted. However, you will need to set the tracking force and anti-skating.

1. Set Tracking Force: Rotate the counterweight at the rear of the tonearm until the tonearm floats freely and is balanced horizontally. Lock the tonearm in its rest. Rotate the tracking force dial (the numbered ring on the counterweight) to '0'. Then, rotate the entire counterweight (including the dial) counter-clockwise until the desired tracking force is set. For the Ortofon OM5e, the recommended tracking force is typically 1.75g.
2. Set Anti-Skating: Attach the anti-skating weight to the small thread loop on the tonearm support. The thread should pass through the second groove for the Ortofon OM5e cartridge.

Figure 3: Tonearm with Anti-Skating Weight

Proper adjustment of tracking force and anti-skating is crucial for optimal sound quality and record preservation.

4. Connecting to an Amplifier

The Debut III Phono SB features a built-in phono preamp, offering two output options:

• Line Out: Use this if your amplifier does not have a dedicated phono input. Connect the supplied RCA cable from the turntable's "Line Out" jacks to any standard line-level input on your amplifier (e.g., AUX, CD, Tuner).
• Phono Out: Use this if your amplifier does have a dedicated phono input. Connect the supplied RCA cable from the turntable's "Phono Out" jacks to your amplifier's "Phono" input.

Always connect the ground wire from the turntable to the ground terminal on your amplifier to minimize hum.

Figure 4: RCA Outputs and Ground Terminal

Choose the appropriate output based on your amplifier's capabilities.

5. Power Connection

Connect the power supply to the DC input jack on the turntable and then plug it into a suitable wall outlet.

Operating Instructions

1. Powering On/Off

The power switch is located on the underside of the turntable plinth. Flip the switch to the 'ON' position to power on the unit.

Figure 5: Power Switch Location

The discreetly placed power switch maintains the clean aesthetic of the turntable.

2. Speed Selection

The Debut III Phono SB features electronic speed selection for 33, 45, and 78 RPM.

• To switch between 33 and 45 RPM, press the speed control button located on the underside of the plinth. The platter will adjust to the selected speed.
• For 78 RPM playback, you must manually change the drive belt to the larger diameter step on the motor pulley and use the round belt provided. Then, select 45 RPM using the electronic speed control.

3. Playing a Record

1. Place a record on the platter. If playing a 7" single, use the provided adapter.
2. Select the correct playback speed (33, 45, or 78 RPM).
3. Gently lift the tonearm using the cueing lever.
4. Position the tonearm over the desired starting groove of the record.
5. Slowly lower the cueing lever to gently drop the stylus onto the record.
6. At the end of the record, lift the tonearm using the cueing lever and return it to the tonearm rest. Secure it with the tonearm clip.

Figure 6: Cartridge on Record

Handle the tonearm and cartridge with care to prevent damage to the stylus or records.

Maintenance

Regular maintenance will help preserve the performance and appearance of your turntable.

• Cleaning the Plinth and Dustcover: Use a soft, lint-free cloth to wipe down the plinth and dustcover. For stubborn marks, a slightly damp cloth can be used, followed by a dry one. Avoid abrasive cleaners or solvents.
• Cleaning the Stylus: Use a dedicated stylus cleaning brush or fluid. Always brush from back to front (away from the cantilever). Clean the stylus regularly to prevent debris buildup, which can degrade sound quality and damage records.
• Belt Replacement: The drive belt may stretch over time. If you notice inconsistent speed or reduced torque, consider replacing the belt.
• Cartridge Care: Avoid touching the stylus with your fingers. If the cartridge needs replacement, consult a qualified technician or refer to the cartridge manufacturer's instructions.

Figure 7: Turntable with Dustcover

Keep the dustcover closed when not in use to protect the turntable from dust and debris.

Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your turntable, refer to the following common problems and solutions.

Specifications

Key technical specifications for the Pro-Ject Debut III Phono SB Turntable:

• Model: Debut III Phono HG OM5e
• Drive Principle: Belt Drive
• Speeds: 33, 45, 78 RPM (electronic speed selection for 33/45)
• Platter: 1.7kg heavy steel platter
• Tonearm: 8.6" Aluminum Tonearm
• Cartridge: Ortofon OM5e (pre-mounted)
• Phono Preamp: Built-in (switchable Phono/Line Out)
• Motor Type: DC Motor
• Product Dimensions (L x W x H): 16.34 x 12.6 x 4.65 inches (41.5 x 32 x 11.8 cm)
• Item Weight: 12.1 pounds (5.5 kg)
• Material: Engineered Wood (Plinth)
• Color: Walnut

Warranty and Support

For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the official Pro-Ject Audio Systems website or contact your authorized dealer. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.

Manufacturer: Pro-Ject Audio Systems