Pro-Ject Audio Systems has announced the latest edition to the Debut Series, Debut EVO 2. Advancing the design of its predecessor (Debut Carbon Evo), Debut EVO 2 now uses the same tonearm bearing block from the Debut PRO B; but the biggest change is the switch from a steel platter to the aluminum platter utilized in the aforementioned Debut PRO B deck that was just introduced.
The incorporation of the Pick it MM EVO phono cartridge, improved motor isolation and a new satin red wine finish sets the Debut EVO 2 makes the new deck a rather interesting option below $700 USD.
Before you get too excited about the balanced output “capabilities” there is some additional information that you need to know.
The new model is balanced-capable with the following requirements: a moving coil cartridge (or Pro-Ject’s Pick it PRO Balanced MM), an RCA > mini XLR cable, as well as any Pro-Ject phono preamp with a mini XLR input (Phono Box S3 B, Phono Box DS3 B, Tube Box DS3 B).
I evaluated the merits of the balanced output option in my recent review of the Pro-Ject X2 B Turntable which you can read here.
The Debut EVO 2 still features customers’ favorite elements from the Debut Carbon EVO. An 8.6” carbon-on-aluminum arm tube, low-friction precision tonearm bearings, a sophisticated DC/AC power generator and height-adjustable metal feet.
Initial Impressions
Pro-Ject has been rather active in 2024 adding 3 new models which support balanced operation and whilst we agree with them that the benefits in terms of sonic performance can be significant — that upgrade requires additional expenditures that may not be within the budget of those shopping for a $700 turntable.
Is it a path worth taking? We think listeners should see how much they love the sound with the new Pick It MM EVO cartridge first within the context of their existing system before taking the plunge.
Pro-Ject’s aforementioned phono pre-amplifiers that offer balanced inputs/outputs are very solid performers at their respective price points but users should remember that the integrated amplifier or line stage on the other end must offer balanced inputs as well to make this a wise upgrade path.
Comparison
| Carbon Debut EVO | Debut EVO 2 | |
| MSRP | $599 | $699 |
| Speeds | 33, 45, 78 rpm | 33, 45 rpm |
| Drive principle | belt drive with electronic speed control | belt drive w/ electronic speed control |
| Platter | 1.7 kg (3.75 lbs) 300 mm steel platter with TPE damping & felt mat | 1.7 kg (3.75 lbs) 300 mm die-cast aluminum platter with TPE damping & felt mat |
| Platter bearing | Stainless steel axle in bronze bushing | Stainless steel axle in bronze bushing |
| Wow & flutter (33 rpm) | ±0.17% | ±0.16% |
| Wow & flutter (45 rpm) | ±0.15% | ±-0.14% |
| Cartridge | Pre-adjusted Ortofon 2M Red cartridge or Sumiko Rainier | Pre-adjusted Pick it MM EVO cartridge |
| Speed drift (33 rpm): | ±0.5% | ±0.40% |
| Speed drift (45 rpm): | ±0.6% | ±0.50% |
| Signal to noise: | 68 dB | 68 dB |
| Tonearm | 8.6” one-piece carbon tonearm | 8.6” one-piece carbon tonearm |
| Effective arm length / mass | 218.5 mm / 6.0 g | 218.5 mm / 10.0 g |
| Overhang | 18.5 mm | 18.5 mm |
| Included accessories | 15V DC 0.8A power supply, dust cover, 7‘‘ singles adapter, 78 rpm round belt | 15V DC 0.8A power supply, dust cover, 7‘‘ singles adapter |
| Dimensions (WxHxD) | 415 x 113 x 320 mm (16.34 x 4.45 x 12.60″) | 415 x 113 x 320 mm (16.34 x 4.45 x 12.60″) |
| Weight | 6 kg (13.23 lbs) net | 6 kg (13.23 lbs) net |
Price & Availability
The Pro-Ject Debut EVO 2 Turnable is expected to start shipping October 8, 2024 for $699 at Crutchfield in select colors (high gloss white, red or satin steel blue). A total of 10 different finishes will be offered including satin walnut, but some colors won’t be available until December 11, 2024.
For more information: pro-jectusa.com
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