Pro-Ject Debut PRO B Turntable White

Pro-Ject Debut PRO B Turntable White: An In-Depth Overview

The Pro-Ject Debut PRO B Turntable in White is a high-performance, belt-drive record player that represents the pinnacle of the long-running Debut series from Austrian manufacturer Pro-Ject Audio Systems. Released in 2024 as an evolution of the celebrated Debut PRO, this model introduces a key upgrade: True Balanced Connection support via a dedicated mini XLR output and the world's first balanced MM (moving magnet) cartridge, the Pick it PRO Balanced. The White finish version — sold under barcode 9120129866118 — is a limited special edition that brings the same audiophile-grade engineering in an elegant satin white colorway, making it as visually distinctive as it is sonically capable.

Since the original Debut turntable launched in the late 1990s, Pro-Ject has refined the formula with each generation. The Debut PRO B carries that legacy forward while adding features that were once exclusive to far more expensive hi-fi setups, positioning it firmly in the mid-range audiophile market without the price tags associated with comparable competitors.

Key Features of the Pro-Ject Debut PRO B White

True Balanced Connection

The defining upgrade in the Debut PRO B over its predecessor is the True Balanced Connection system. The turntable ships with a mini XLR output alongside the standard gold-plated RCA connectors, allowing users to connect to a compatible balanced phono preamplifier such as the Pro-Ject Phono Box S3 B, DS3 B, or Tube Box DS3 B. Using a balanced signal path significantly reduces noise and interference picked up along the cable run, resulting in a quieter, more detailed audio presentation. Importantly, the included Pick it PRO Balanced cartridge is the first MM cartridge designed specifically to transmit a fully symmetrical balanced signal, making this a genuinely complete balanced solution from stylus to preamp.

Carbon-Aluminum Sandwich Tonearm

The 8.6-inch one-piece tonearm uses a carbon fibre outer layer bonded to an inner aluminium tube. The carbon provides rigidity and resistance to external interference, while the aluminium adds controlled damping. The result is an arm that tracks record grooves with precision and resists the kind of resonance that colours the sound on lesser designs. The bearing block is CNC-milled aluminium with a nickel finish, giving it both visual coherence with the rest of the deck and excellent mechanical properties.

Adjustable VTA and Azimuth

The tonearm base on the Debut PRO B allows continuous adjustment of both the vertical tracking angle (VTA) and azimuth. Loosening two grub screws lets users raise or lower the arm height, which is particularly useful when swapping cartridges or trying different record mats. These adjustments are not merely cosmetic; dialling in the correct VTA and azimuth extracts measurably better performance from any phono cartridge, giving enthusiasts a meaningful upgrade path without replacing the whole turntable.

Anti-Magnetic Die-Cast Aluminium Platter

The 300mm die-cast aluminium platter is precision-balanced through an additional machining step after casting, ensuring smooth, wobble-free rotation. It features a notch designed to accommodate the record label, and its anti-magnetic construction means MC (moving coil) cartridges can operate without interference from the platter material. A TPE (thermoplastic elastomer) damping ring on the underside of the platter absorbs resonances, keeping wow and flutter figures low — measured at plus or minus 0.16% at 33 RPM and plus or minus 0.14% at 45 RPM.

Electronic Speed Control

Switching between 33 and 45 RPM is handled electronically via a front-panel toggle switch, removing the need to manually move the drive belt between pulley steps. A separate round belt is included for 78 RPM playback, which requires a manual swap. This makes the Debut PRO B practical for listeners with varied record collections, including older shellac 78s.

Eight-Layer Hand-Painted MDF Chassis

The plinth is constructed from MDF and finished with eight layers of satin white paint, a process that produces a hard, durable surface with a premium tactile quality. Pro-Ject deliberately avoids plastics in the chassis and hardware, citing both acoustic and environmental reasons. All visible metal components carry a nickel finish, giving the White Edition a visually cohesive, refined appearance.

Additional Specifications

• Drive principle: belt-drive with electronic speed control and decoupled DC motor
• Speeds: 33, 45 (electronic), and 78 RPM (manual belt change)
• Tonearm effective length: 218.5mm
• Signal-to-noise ratio: 68dB
• Output: gold-plated RCA and mini XLR balanced output
• Included cable: Connect it E phono cable (semi-symmetrical)
• Power supply: 15V DC / 0.8A
• Includes dust cover, felt mat, 7-inch single adapter, and both flat and round drive belts
• Height-adjustable metal feet for levelling

Who Is the Pro-Ject Debut PRO B White For?

The Debut PRO B White is best suited to serious vinyl enthusiasts who want a complete, high-quality turntable that is ready to use out of the box but also capable of growing with a more advanced system over time. It is not an entry-level turntable; buyers who are new to vinyl and just want to play a few records casually may find the feature set and price point more than they need. However, for anyone stepping up from a budget deck, building a dedicated listening room, or looking for a turntable that supports True Balanced phono stages without investing in a flagship-level product, the Debut PRO B hits an appealing point in the market.

The White Special Edition specifically appeals to listeners who want their audio equipment to make a visual statement. It pairs naturally with lighter-toned furniture and contemporary room designs, and the satin finish has a restrained elegance that avoids looking garish.

Usage Tips

Setting Up the Tonearm

Before playing any records, take time to set the correct tracking force for the Pick it PRO Balanced cartridge, which is recommended at 2.0 grams, with a range of 1.8 to 2.2 grams acceptable for fine-tuning. Use a dedicated stylus force gauge rather than relying solely on the counterweight markings. Once tracking force is set, experimenting with the VTA by raising or lowering the tonearm slightly can improve bass weight or high-frequency clarity depending on the cartridge and record thickness you most commonly use.

Using the Balanced Output

To take full advantage of the True Balanced Connection, you will need a mini XLR to XLR cable (available separately from Pro-Ject) and a phono preamplifier with a balanced input. If your current phono stage only accepts RCA connections, the standard RCA output on the Debut PRO B works perfectly well. You are not required to use the balanced path, but doing so in a compatible system will noticeably reduce the noise floor.

Playing 78 RPM Records

Swap the flat drive belt for the included round belt when playing 78s. Note that the standard Pick it PRO Balanced stylus is not suitable for shellac 78 RPM records; you will need a dedicated 78 RPM stylus such as the optional RS78, which is sold separately.

Placement and Isolation

Place the turntable on a stable, level surface away from loudspeakers. Low-frequency vibrations transmitted through furniture can cause feedback. The height-adjustable feet help with levelling, and an aftermarket record weight such as the Pro-Ject Record Puck PRO adds additional stability during playback.

Buying Advice

The Pro-Ject Debut PRO B White is sold as a complete package with the cartridge pre-mounted and the tonearm already installed, so setup is relatively straightforward compared to building a turntable from separate components. However, it does not include a built-in phono preamplifier, which means buyers whose amplifier or receiver lacks a dedicated phono input will need to budget for an external phono stage. Pro-Ject's own Phono Box E is a cost-effective entry point, while the Phono Box S3 B is the natural companion if you want to use the balanced output.

The White finish is a limited edition, which means stock may not always be available. If the colour matters to you, it is worth purchasing promptly rather than waiting. For those who are indifferent to colour, the satin black version shares identical technical specifications.

Before purchasing, consider whether you will actually use the balanced connection in the near term. If your current phono stage is single-ended only, the Debut PRO B still performs excellently via its RCA output, and the balanced path remains available as a future upgrade route. The turntable does not punish buyers for using it in a simpler system.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Pro-Ject Debut PRO B White come with a cartridge already fitted?

Yes. The turntable ships with the Pro-Ject Pick it PRO Balanced MM cartridge pre-mounted on the tonearm. This is the first MM cartridge designed to support True Balanced signal transmission, and it is ready to use after basic setup steps such as setting the tracking force.

Do I need a balanced phono preamplifier to use this turntable?

No. The Debut PRO B includes both standard RCA outputs and a mini XLR balanced output. If you do not have a balanced phono stage, you can connect it normally via the RCA output and any standard phono preamplifier. The balanced output is an optional upgrade path, not a requirement.

Can the Debut PRO B play 78 RPM records?

Yes, with some manual intervention. A round drive belt for 78 RPM playback is included in the box. You will need to swap belts and also use a 78 RPM compatible stylus, such as the optional RS78, since the standard stylus is not suitable for shellac records.

Is a phono preamplifier included?

No. The Pro-Ject Debut PRO B does not have a built-in phono stage. You will need either an amplifier with a dedicated phono input or a separate external phono preamplifier.

How does the White Special Edition differ from the standard Debut PRO B?

The only difference is the finish. The White Special Edition has a satin white MDF chassis and matches the white colorway across its CNC-milled aluminium components. All technical specifications, included accessories, and the cartridge are identical to the standard satin black version.

Can I upgrade the cartridge on the Debut PRO B?

Yes. The tonearm uses a standard half-inch mount headshell, making it compatible with a wide range of aftermarket MM and MC cartridges. The adjustable VTA and azimuth settings help optimise the arm geometry when fitting a different cartridge. MC cartridges work properly thanks to the anti-magnetic platter construction.

What phono preamplifiers are recommended for use with the balanced output?

Pro-Ject's own Phono Box S3 B, Phono Box DS3 B, Tube Box DS3 B, and Phono Box RS all accept balanced inputs and are designed to work with the Debut PRO B's True Balanced Connection. A separately purchased mini XLR cable is required to use the balanced path with any of these units.

What is the warranty on the Pro-Ject Debut PRO B?

Pro-Ject Audio Systems typically provides a two-year manufacturer warranty on its turntables. Warranty terms may vary depending on the region and the authorised dealer from whom the product is purchased. It is advisable to confirm warranty coverage with your retailer at the time of purchase.