Pro-Ject Debut EVO 2 Turntable Review

It’s not often you come across turntables under $1,000 that deliver such accurate and clean vinyl playback. In this price range, it’s common to hear the groove noise as the stylus moves along the vinyl, especially at the start of a record or in the silent gaps between tracks. This issue became even more noticeable during my test with a highly transparent setup, featuring the Magnepan LRS+, the Buchardt Sub10, the NAD C399 amplifier, and the SPL Diamond DAC, a full-range system capable of reproducing the entire audible frequency spectrum, down to infrasonic levels.

Typically, I only achieve the level of infrasonic cleanliness I’m looking for with my reference turntable, the Pro-Ject RPM9, equipped with the EVO CA Premium tonearm and the Hana ML cartridge. But, as we all know, that’s an entirely different price category.

What if I told you I’ve found a turntable that can offer this remarkable level of cleanliness and precision at an accessible price point? Get ready, because today we’re talking about the Pro-Ject Debut EVO 2.

One thing is certain: from now on, any turntable review I conduct will include a properly set up subwoofer in the test. The difference is truly noticeable, as low-end details resurface, details that are hard to perceive even with full-range speakers.

OVERVIEW

The Pro-Ject Debut EVO 2 was introduced at High-End Munich 2024 and brings several significant upgrades. First, it features a new Special Platter that is TPE-damped and anti-magnetic. This heavy aluminum platter incorporates a TPE ring inside to dampen unwanted resonances. Weighing an impressive 1.7 kilograms, it stands out in its price range, where platters typically weigh only around half a kilogram.

Pro-Ject has also updated the bearing block. The massive, precise CNC-milled aluminum tonearm bearing block now absorbs unwanted resonances from the cartridge more effectively. This improvement is further complemented by a new counterweight design that incorporates a TPE damping ring, a feature previously reserved for Pro-Ject's high-end turntables.

Priced at $699, the EVO 2 comes equipped with the new Pick It MM EVO cartridge, which alone costs between $150 and $200. Manufactured by Ortofon, I tested it against the Ortofon 2M Blue, and I’ll share more on this comparison later in the review.

The Debut EVO 2 is fully manufactured in Europe, and I had the chance to visit their factory in the Czech Republic. It was an impressive tour! The facility handles everything in-house, from CNC machining to assembly and testing. This vertical integration allows Pro-Ject to offer unique customization options. You can configure your turntable online, choosing from 10 different finishes. My personal favorite is Satin Wine Red, which looks stunning and feels smooth to the touch, thanks to its eight layers of lacquer.

You can also select optional upgrades such as an acrylic platter. While I haven’t tested it, I found the standard aluminum platter to be very satisfying. Additionally, you can choose different turntable mats. Here, I highly recommend upgrading to cork or leather. The stock felt mat not only attracts static charges but is also so thin that it disrupts the VTA (Vertical Tracking Angle) adjustment, leading to dull and less engaging sound, specialy on vocals. I had a leather mat at home, which worked perfectly.

For those asking: is having the tonearm parallel enough for correct VTA? Yes and no. It’s a great starting point, but the EVO 2’s tonearm doesn’t have adjustable VTA. This isn’t entirely a drawback, as choosing the right cartridge and mat can yield excellent results. Personally, I also rely on listening tests and measure intermodulation distortion using AnalogMagik, yes an expensive setup and anlysis tool, check my video on it, but the best on the market today!

The configuration options don’t stop there. You can upgrade the sub-platter as well, though I’ve kept everything standard for my tests. There’s also the option to upgrade to Pro Balanced cartridges, which I’ve previously discussed in my review of the Phono Box RS2. If you’re curious, it’s worth checking out. The configurator offers many other upgrades, turning this into a turntable equivalent of customizing a car, it’s truly amazing.

SETUP & USE

The Pro-Ject Debut EVO 2 arrived in excellent packaging, very well-organized with clear assembly instructions. Setting it up takes just a few minutes, as the cartridge comes pre-installed on the 8.6-inch carbon tonearm. All you need to do is attach the belt, platter, counterweight, and anti-skating weight by following the instructions , that are really well done and include clear guidance even for the knobs.

One issue I encountered was that the anti-skating weight kept falling off. I had to slightly adjust the tonearm post with a screwdriver to fix this. The unit I received wasn’t brand new, so I’m unsure if this is a common issue, but I’m confident Pro-Ject will address it during quality control checks.

A feature I particularly appreciate is the power switch hidden underneath the plinth. Pushing it to the left activates 33 RPM, and to the right, 45 RPM. This design keeps the aesthetic clean and minimalist. Another thoughtful design element is the use of three feet instead of the usual fourThis ensures excellent stability on any surface. This contrasts with a recent review I did of the Axxess Forte 1 amplifier, a $5,000 unit with four metal feet that made it unstable due to its lightweight class D design.

I even pointed out in my review that they should have used three feet or rubber ones. Someone commented that I should learn why the brand avoids rubber feet, but honestly, at that price, stability should come first, even if the feet were made of gold!

Another standout feature of the EVO 2 is its removable dust cover. Unlike most turntables, it’s incredibly easy to detach with just two fingers, making it both convenient and user-friendly.

If you find that it doesn’t stay in position, perhaps due to limited space above the turntable, you can simply tighten the screws at the back. I recommend removing the cover during playback for the best sound quality. Since it’s so easy to remove, it’s not a hassle, and the turntable looks even better without it.

The included cable is of excellent quality. You’d only need to upgrade it if you plan to switch to a balanced setup.

Overall, the setup process and design features of the Pro-Ject Debut EVO 2 make it user-friendly and visually appealing, setting it apart from many other turntables in its class.

PERFORMANCE & MEASURES

Let’s quickly touch on measurements before diving into the sound quality. The Pro-Ject Debut EVO 2 measured excellently, delivering results I honestly didn’t expect in this price range. Its performance was almost comparable to my reference turntable, the Pro-Ject RPM 9.

As always, I performed all measurements using AnalogMagik. After calibrating the cartridge for zenith and distortion, I focused on key performance areas such as speed (critical for accurate pitch), speed stability (wow and flutter), and vibration and resonance.

First, let me address speed measurement. Some reviews rely on smartphone apps for this, but I find this method unreliable. Why? Because these apps don’t measure with the cartridge needle engaged, and the accelerometer accuracy varies significantly between phone models. AnalogMagik, on the other hand, calculates speed by analyzing frequency, ensuring 100% accuracy.

The EVO 2 measured 33.0 RPM and 45.0 RPM, impressive numbers. A good turntable should stay within 0.5% of the nominal speed, and this is well within that range. For comparison, my RPM 9 hits a perfect 33.3 and 45.0 RPM, while the Argon Audio TT4 clocked in at 33.7 and 45.5 RPM. Although the TT4 has adjustable speed, its values tend to drift over time, requiring recalibration every few months. The EVO 2’s high-quality AC motor and DC/AC power generator eliminate this hassle. The power generator produces a clean sine wave for the motor, ensuring excellent speed stability. For me, this is a game-changer, like my Roland piano, which doesn’t need constant tuning.

Moving on to Wow & Flutter, the EVO 2 achieved 0.07% at 33.3 RPM and 0.15% at 45 RPM, both well within the acceptable threshold of 0.2%. These results are excellent.

DEBUT EVO 2 Wow & Flutter 33.33 RPM RESULTS

DEBUT EVO 2 Wow & Flutter 45 RPM RESULTS

Next is vibration testing. AnalogMagik’s intermodulation distortion test detects issues arising from components like the turntable’s bearing and motor. The EVO 2 measured 4.6% on the left channel and 3.9% on the right channel. These values are typical for this price range. For reference, the RPM 9 scored slightly better at 4.0% and 2.0%, respectively.

Finally, I tested the resonance frequency of the cartridge-tonearm combination. The EVO 2 measured 9.44 Hz on both lateral and vertical planes. Vertical resonance was particularly low, making it challenging to measure. Ideally, resonance should fall between 7 and 12 Hz, so this pairing with the included cartridge (and other Ortofon 2M models) is excellent.

In summary, the EVO 2’s measurements are outstanding, especially for a turntable under $1,000. It’s the best I’ve tested in this price category.

SOUND QUALITY

From the very first listen, my attention was drawn to the almost inaudible background noise—an exceptional characteristic for a turntable in this price range. The EVO 2’s noise floor is remarkably low, reminiscent of my RPM 9 equipped with a $1,000 cartridge.

One of the most striking aspects of the EVO 2’s performance is the depth of the soundstage. This was especially noticeable in orchestral recordings, where instruments were more clearly separated and positioned within a larger, more three-dimensional space. The result was a more immersive and lifelike listening experience.

Bass performance was another standout feature. The EVO 2 delivered weighty, solid, and impactful bass with excellent slam. The overall presentation was highly engaging, fully open, and impressively detailed. Its tracking ability was excellent, recreating a realistic soundstage with refined treble that added a touch of elegance to the sound.

The EVO 2 setup captured a significant amount of nuance and detail from vinyl records, presenting the music effortlessly and with great authority. Even during complex and dynamic passages, the EVO 2 paired with the Pick It MM EVO cartridge maintained impeccable stability. There were no signs of distortion, coloration, or overly smooth tonalities. Instead, it achieved an impressive balance between detail retrieval and a solid, deep soundstage. This combination worked beautifully, offering a pleasing and highly realistic performance.

**Quincy Jones - The Dude (Ltd Coloured Vinyl)**

This is where the Debut EVO 2 truly distinguished itself from every other turntable in its category. I sourced this limited-edition colored vinyl directly from the U.S. due to its rarity in the EU. While I anticipated an excellent noise floor, perhaps influenced by my experience with Acoustic Sounds records, which I consider among the best, the pressing unfortunately suffered from noticeable surface noise, including pops and crackles likely caused by manufacturing defects. Naturally, I returned the record, but not before testing its playback on the Debut EVO 2 and all my turntables in the same price range.
The difference was extraordinary, even with the same cartridge installed. The Pro-Ject Debut EVO 2 not only suppressed the subsonic noise from the stylus tracking the grooves but also transformed the listening experience into something enjoyable. On other turntables, the record was almost unlistenable without a high-quality phono amp equipped with a subsonic filter. The Pro-Ject Debut EVO 2 turned what could have been a disappointing session into an engaging and musical experience, a testament to its outstanding engineering and refinement.

**Eric Clapton - Forever Man 2-LP**

The bass was solid, stable, and well-defined, providing a strong foundation and anchoring the tracks with authority. Vocals were realistic and perfectly centered between the speakers, delivering an intimate and natural listening experience.
Being a compilation that spans decades of Eric Clapton's success, not all tracks share the same recording quality. However, the Debut EVO 2 consistently presented them with fidelity, maintaining an engaging and captivating performance throughout.
The metallic guitar tones were reproduced with stunning clarity and detail, showcasing the intricate textures and nuances of Clapton's playing. The soundstage was expansive and cohesive, adding depth and precision that brought the music to life. This classic compilation, featuring standout collaborations with legends like J.J. Cale and B.B. King, was rendered with impressive authority and charm by the Debut EVO 2.

**Holst The Planets ZUBIN MEHTA Decca Speakers Corner Audiophile 180g LP**

This is undoubtedly one of the finest orchestral recordings in my collection, and the Pro-Ject Debut EVO 2 paired with the Pick It MM EVO cartridge showcased just how exceptional this combination is for classical music. The soundstage depth was simply outstanding, creating an expansive and immersive experience.
Each instrument was not only precisely positioned within the soundstage but also beautifully separated, allowing the intricate layers of the orchestra to shine through. The tonal balance was superb: the violins sounded smooth and fluid, never harsh, while the brass delivered a sense of realism and power that felt alive.

**Cannonball Adderley - Know What I Mean? (Original Jazz Classics Series)**

I used to own this album in the 45 RPM version as part of the *Bill Evans - Riverside Recordings* vinyl box set sold by Acoustic Sounds for $900, an incredible pressing with outstanding quality. However, as a big fan of both Cannonball Adderley and 33 RPM records, I decided to purchase the *Original Jazz Classics* (OJC) edition, and I’m not disappointed at all. This pressing is beautifully done and offers an excellent listening experience.
With this album, I focused my attention on comparing the Pick It MM EVO cartridge and the Ortofon 2M Blue. The Pro-Ject Debut EVO 2 proved to be impeccable when it came to reproducing sustained saxophone notes, delivering a level of accuracy I've only experienced with more expensive setups. The Pick It MM EVO cartridge presented a more lush and clinical sound, capturing intricate details with precision. On the other hand, the Ortofon 2M Blue impressed me in this genre with its smoother, more harmonically rich, and forward midrange presentation, which further highlighted Adderley’s artistry.

COMPARISON

To better illustrate the sound quality of the Pro-Ject Debut EVO 2, I compared it to my Argon Audio TT4 fitted with the Ortofon 2M Blue, a cartridge I genuinely appreciate. For a more thorough cross-test, I also swapped the cartridges, mounting the Pick It MM EVO on the Argon Audio TT4 and the 2M Blue on the Pro-Ject EVO 2.

One notable observation was that the slightly sub-warp noise present on the Argon Audio TT4 persisted even when using the Pick It MM EVO cartridge. This indicates the noise originated from the turntable itself. In contrast, the Pro-Ject EVO 2 remained completely silent and clean, even with the sub-filter off. While this difference may not be as noticeable without a subwoofer, for systems capable of reaching lower frequencies, the distinction becomes obvious.

The differences between the two turntables extended beyond noise performance. The overall sound from the Argon Audio TT4 felt a bit more congested and less focused. Interestingly, I hadn't noticed this until performing a side-by-side comparison with the same cartridge. The EVO 2 stood out as being more clinical, precise, articulate, and capable of delivering a far more focused and defined soundstage, a significant superiority.

As for the comparison between the Pick It MM EVO and the Ortofon 2M Blue, both are excellent in their own ways but offer distinctly different sonic signatures. The Pick It MM EVO sounds deeper, more open, dynamic, and detailed, while the 2M Blue leans towards a smoother, harmonically richer presentation with a more forward midrange. I found the 2M Blue particularly enjoyable for genres like jazz, which constitutes 80% of my collection, aligning more with my personal preferences. Both cartridges are exceptional for their price, but the beauty of the EVO 2 lies in its ability to support cartridge upgrades, allowing you to elevate its performance even further.

FINAL THOUGHTS

The Pro-Ject Debut EVO 2 demonstrated a significant superiority over all the turntables I've tested in the same price range, particularly in terms of noise levels, precision, and focus. The difference is striking, and if you had the chance to conduct a side-by-side comparison as I did, you'd undoubtedly be amazed.

The market is saturated with turntables at this price point, and while attaching a tonearm to a spinning platter might seem straightforward, achieving it with true engineering excellence is a whole different story. Pro-Ject has managed to do just that!

So far, every turntable I’ve tested in this category has shown some form of compromise, whether it’s play in the tonearm bearing, platter instability, or inconsistent speed. Many manufacturers seem to treat resonance control as an afterthought, assuming it wouldn't be noticeable as long as the turntable spins. But that’s simply not the case. The audience is more discerning than one might think, and ultimately, sound quality never lies. Even a beginner listener was able to notice the differences.

With the Debut EVO 2, Pro-Ject has crafted a turntable that delivers not just exceptional sound but also remarkable mechanical stability, ensuring an engaging and immersive listening experience that will satisfy both newcomers and vinyl enthusiasts alike.

Pros:

Exceptional Noise Performance: Almost inaudible background noise, surpassing other turntables in its price range.

No Speed Adjustment: Unlike some competitors, speed cannot be manually fine-tuned, though this is offset by the high-quality motor and generator.

Superior Build Quality: Features like the heavy TPE-damped aluminum platter and CNC-milled tonearm bearing ensure excellent stability and reduced resonances.

Accurate Speed and Stability: Achieves precise 33.0 and 45 RPM speeds with remarkable wow and flutter measurements (0.07% at 33 RPM).

Engaging Sound: Deep, dynamic, and highly detailed sound presentation with excellent tracking ability.

Customizable Design: Offers various finishes, upgradeable components, and a user-friendly online configurator.

Ease of Setup: Pre-installed cartridge and clear instructions make assembly quick and straightforward.

Removable Dust Cover: Easy to detach and reattach, keeping the design clean and practical.

European Manufacturing: Proudly made in Europe, ensuring high production standards.

Outstanding Value: Displays an astonishing superiority over other turntables in the same price range.

Cons:

Stock Mat Quality: The included mat attracts static and is too thin, potentially affecting performance.

Pro-Ject Debut EVO 2 Review Scores

Build Quality: ★★★★★ (5/5)

Premium materials like the TPE-damped aluminum platter, carbon tonearm, and CNC-machined bearing block.

Excellent craftsmanship and finish with multiple lacquer coats.

Ease of Setup: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5)

Straightforward assembly with clear instructions.

Pre-installed cartridge reduces setup complexity.

Minor adjustments may be required (e.g., anti-skating weight).

Noise Isolation: ★★★★★ (5/5)

Incredibly low background noise, even compared to higher-priced models.

Virtually no audible groove noise, even with a subwoofer in the system.

Sound Quality: ★★★★★ (5/5)

Exceptional clarity, depth, and soundstage.

Engaging and dynamic presentation with a precise tonal balance.

Speed Accuracy & Stability: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5)

Great measures on speed, 33.0 and 45.0 RPM.

WOW & flutter well below the threshold, ensuring excellent pitch accuracy.

Vibration Resistance: ★★★★☆ (4/5)

Good resistance to external vibrations thanks to high-quality motor and feet design.

Slight improvements possible compared to reference models like the RPM9.

Cartridge Performance (Pick It MM EVO): ★★★★☆ (4.5/5)

Detailed and dynamic performance with great depth and nuance.

A strong competitor to the Ortofon 2M Blue, excelling in certain genres like classical and orchestral.

Aesthetics & Design: ★★★★★ (5/5)

Clean, minimalist design with customizable finishes.

Hidden power switch and removable dust cover add functionality and style.

Value for Money: ★★★★★ (5/5)

Outstanding performance and features for the price.

Competes with and even outperforms turntables in higher price brackets.

Overall Score: ★★★★★ (5/5)

The Pro-Ject Debut EVO 2 stands out as a category leader under $1,000, offering remarkable performance, exceptional design, and incredible value. It’s a strong recommendation for anyone seeking a high-quality turntable in this price range.