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US$399 is on the ambitious side for this piece, sitting well above the recent used median of US$160 and even over the 75th percentile of US$396. It’s not outrageous if it’s truly clean and complete, but it’s priced like a top-of-market example rather than a bargain.
The upside is straightforward: this is a respected MM/MC phono stage with a strong reputation for quiet operation, solid loading flexibility, and enough refinement to serve serious vinyl setups well. If it includes the original power supply, packaging, and shows no sign of hum, switch wear, or gain/impedance issues, it can still be a worthwhile buy for someone wanting a capable, compact phono preamp without stepping up to a much pricier new unit.
Independent perspective — not a price guarantee. Always verify condition, accessories and provenance before purchase.
Pro-Ject Audio Systems traces its roots to 1991 in Austria's Weinviertel region, north of Vienna, where founder Heinz Lichtenegger launched the brand amid the CD revolution. Kicked out of music school as a youth, Lichtenegger channeled his passion for analog sound into affordable, high-quality turntables at a time when vinyl seemed obsolete. His debut Pro-Ject 1, hand-assembled in the Czech Republic, earned rave reviews as a top high-end device, igniting a success story that relocated headquarters to Vienna before returning to Mistelbach in Lower Austria.
The brand excels in turntables, establishing itself as the world's largest and leading producer in that category, while expanding into a full spectrum of hi-fi components since 2000. Offerings include amplifiers, DACs, headphone amps, speakers, cables, and phono stages, all emphasizing essential sound reproduction with durable materials and minimalist design. Manufacturing remains European—primarily in Czechia, Slovakia, and Germany—prioritizing sustainability through local sourcing, short transport, and products built for longevity.
Pro-Ject holds a commanding niche as the go-to for mid-tier audiophiles seeking boutique European craftsmanship without extravagant pricing. Distributed in over 80 countries, it appeals to vinyl revivalists and discerning buyers who value analog purity, innovation, and value-driven performance over flashy excess, cementing its reputation as a pioneer in accessible high-fidelity.
See all Pro-Ject listings on RADAR.
