Pro-Ject Debut PRO B Balanced Turntable

1. Introduction

This manual provides essential information for the proper setup, operation, and maintenance of your Pro-Ject Debut PRO B Balanced Turntable. Please read these instructions carefully before using the product to ensure optimal performance and longevity. The Pro-Ject Debut PRO B is engineered for high-fidelity audio reproduction, featuring a carbon fiber tonearm, a precision-machined aluminum platter, and a pre-mounted Pick it PRO Balanced cartridge for exceptional sound quality.

Figure 1: Pro-Ject Debut PRO B Turntable with its dust cover open, showcasing the platter and tonearm.

2. Safety Instructions

• Always disconnect the turntable from the power supply before cleaning or maintenance.
• Keep the turntable away from water, moisture, and direct sunlight.
• Do not place heavy objects on the turntable.
• Ensure the turntable is placed on a stable, level surface to prevent vibrations and ensure proper operation.
• Avoid touching the stylus with bare hands to prevent damage.

3. Package Contents

Verify that all items are present in the package:

• Pro-Ject Debut PRO B Turntable Unit
• Aluminum Platter
• Drive Belt
• Dust Cover with Hinges
• Counterweight
• Anti-skating Weight
• Power Supply
• Connect it E RCA Cable
• Stylus Pressure Gauge
• User Manual

4. Setup

Follow these steps to set up your Pro-Ject Debut PRO B turntable:

4.1. Platter and Drive Belt Installation

1. Carefully place the aluminum platter onto the spindle in the center of the turntable.
2. Locate the drive belt. Gently stretch the drive belt around the motor pulley and the sub-platter rim. Ensure the belt is seated correctly and not twisted.
3. Rotate the platter manually a few times clockwise to ensure the belt is properly aligned.

Figure 2: Close-up view of the turntable platter and drive belt mechanism.

4.2. Tonearm and Cartridge Setup

The Pick it PRO Balanced cartridge is pre-mounted on the carbon fiber tonearm. You will need to install the counterweight and set the tracking force.

1. Slide the counterweight onto the rear end of the tonearm with the numbers facing forward.
2. Unlock the tonearm from its rest. Carefully remove the stylus protector from the cartridge.
3. Adjust the counterweight by rotating it until the tonearm is balanced and floats horizontally when released.
4. Once balanced, hold the counterweight steady and rotate only the numbered ring to '0'.
5. Then, rotate the entire counterweight (including the numbered ring) to set the recommended tracking force for the Pick it PRO Balanced cartridge (typically 1.8g). Use the supplied stylus pressure gauge for precise adjustment.
6. Install the anti-skating weight by looping the thread over the anti-skating stub and through the appropriate groove (usually the second groove for 1.8g tracking force).

Figure 3: Detailed view of the tonearm and counterweight for adjustment.

Figure 4: The Pick it PRO Balanced cartridge attached to the tonearm.

4.3. Leveling the Turntable

Ensure the turntable is perfectly level for optimal performance. Use a spirit level (not included) or the adjustable feet to achieve this.

Video 1: This video demonstrates the initial setup steps for a turntable, including platter installation, counterweight adjustment, and leveling. While featuring a Fluance turntable, the principles apply to the Pro-Ject Debut PRO B.

4.4. Connecting to an Amplifier/Receiver

The Debut PRO B features a true balanced connection. Connect the supplied RCA cable from the turntable's audio output to your amplifier or receiver. If your amplifier has a dedicated 'PHONO' input, use it. If not, you will need an external phono preamplifier.

Figure 5: Rear view of the turntable, highlighting the RCA output and grounding terminal.

Video 2: This video illustrates how to connect a turntable to a stereo amplifier, covering both direct phono input and external preamp scenarios. The connection principles are applicable to the Pro-Ject Debut PRO B.

5. Operating Instructions

5.1. Powering On/Off

Connect the power supply to the turntable and a wall outlet. The turntable is ready for operation when the power indicator light is on.

5.2. Speed Selection

Use the speed selector switch located on the plinth to choose between 33 RPM and 45 RPM, corresponding to your record's playback speed.

5.3. Playing a Record

1. Place a record on the platter.
2. Unlock the tonearm from its rest.
3. Lift the cueing lever to raise the tonearm.
4. Carefully position the tonearm over the desired track on the record.
5. Lower the cueing lever to gently drop the stylus onto the record.

5.4. Stopping Playback

1. Lift the cueing lever to raise the tonearm from the record.
2. Return the tonearm to its rest and secure it with the tonearm clip.
3. Turn off the turntable using the speed selector switch.

6. Maintenance

6.1. Cleaning the Stylus

Use a soft brush designed for stylus cleaning. Brush gently from back to front (in the direction of play) to remove dust and debris.

6.2. Cleaning Records

Use a carbon fiber record brush before each play to remove surface dust. For deeper cleaning, use a record cleaning solution and cloth.

6.3. Turntable Cleaning

Wipe the turntable plinth and platter with a soft, dry, anti-static cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials.

6.4. Dust Cover Care

Clean the dust cover with a soft, damp cloth. Do not use window cleaning fluids or abrasive cloths as they may scratch the surface.

7. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues, refer to the following common problems and solutions:

• No power: Check power cable connection and wall outlet.
• No sound from one or both channels: Verify RCA cable connections to both turntable and amplifier. Check cartridge wiring.
• Distorted or inconsistent sound: Ensure tracking force and anti-skating are correctly set. Check for stylus wear or damage.
• Humming noise: Ensure the ground wire is properly connected between the turntable and amplifier. Check for proximity to other electronic devices.
• Incorrect speed: Verify the drive belt is correctly installed and not stretched. Ensure the speed selector is set to the correct RPM.

8. Specifications

9. Warranty & Support

Your Pro-Ject Debut PRO B turntable comes with a manufacturer's warranty. Please refer to the warranty card included in your package for specific terms and conditions. For technical support, service, or spare parts, please contact your authorized Pro-Ject dealer or visit the official Pro-Ject Audio Systems website. EU spare part availability duration is 25 years.