The Essential III turntable from Pro-Ject was completely redesigned to offer several improvements over its popular predecessor, the Essential II. The upgrades are plenty, but perhaps the most noticeable is an all-new larger MDF plinth in three attractive high-gloss finishes and a more massive MDF platter in piano black. MDF (medium-density fiberboard) is a superior and acoustically inert material that effectively damps unwanted resonances that degrade the sound quality of your vinyl playback. The platter also features a more precise, lower-tolerance bearing and a stainless-steel spindle that reduces any rotational friction and allows for better speed stability and more consistent sound. Coupled with an ultra low-noise motor driven by an onboard DC-powered sine-wave generator, this setup renders issues with speed stability and motor vibration common to most other affordable turntables a thing of the past. The diamond-cut aluminum drive pulley along with a silicone drive belt complete the precision of the turntable’s drive section and further add to its already stunning and sleek looks.

The same high-performance, low-mass aluminum tonearm with sapphire bearings is brought over from the Essential II, but the integrated headshell is now adorned with an upgraded OM 10 moving magnet phono cartridge from Ortofon. This pairing delivers lively, balanced, and enrapturing sound that will breathe new life to any record in your prized vinyl collection. Everything is supported atop three elastomer-damped feet that effectively decouple the turntable from its playing surface to eliminate outside vibrations and allow for the most accurate playback possible. Available in three gorgeous high-gloss finishes (piano black, red, and white), the Essential III sets a new standard for the highest performance possible at a refreshingly modest cost.