| Pro-Ject Audio Systems | |
| Type: | Privately held company |
| Location: | Mistelbach, Lower Austria, Austria |
| Key People: | Heinz Lichtenegger (founder and director) |
| Industry: | Electronics |
| Products: | Hi-fi equipment |
| Num Employees: | approx. 300 |
| Revenue: | unknown |
Pro-Ject Audio Systems is a manufacturer of audiophile equipment, founded in 1991 by Heinz Lichtenegger and located in Mistelbach, Austria.[1] [2] Pro-Ject Audio Systems designs the products in Austria and produces them in plants located in Germany, Czech Republic and Slovakia.
It's product range includes a family of turntables, which are often quoted as reference entry-level models.[3] [4] The Pro-Ject Debut turntable, introduced in 1999, played a pivotal role in revitalizing interest in vinyl records (Phonograph record) by offering high-quality analog playback at an affordable price point, making quality turntables accessible to a broader audience.[5]
They also manufactures a range of micro Hi-Fi components such as Amps, CD Transports, Phono Stages, Streaming Devices, Loudspeakers and more.[6] [7] [8] [9] Since 2015 Pro-Ject has released limited edition Artist Collection[10] turntables in cooperation with the Beatles, The Rolling Stones, Metallica, Hans Theessink, Parov Stelar, and the Vienna Philharmonic[11] .
Pro-Ject Audio Systems is a division of Audio Tuning[12], that also owns Musical Fidelity[13], REKKORD AUDIO[14] and TONE Factory[15] .
Pro-Ject founder Heinz Lichtenegger began producing and selling turntables under this brand name in 1991. The Pro-Ject 1, launched in 1991, marked the company's entry into the turntable market. Developed by founder Heinz Lichtenegger, this deck was essentially a modified version of the Tesla NC-500, a turntable produced in the Czech Republic. By enhancing the design with improved materials and engineering, Pro-Ject created an affordable yet high-quality turntable that laid the foundation for its future success.[16]
Pro-Ject turntables have made notable appearances in various films, often serving as key elements in set designs. These placements underscore a cultural significance and aesthetic appeal of turntables in contemporary movies.[17]
For instance, the Pro-Ject Debut Carbon Line was featured in the film A Bigger Splash (2015 film)[18] for the authentic portrayal of a character with a passion for vinyl records. It also appeared in the Music video of the Song “Giorgio by Moroder” by Daft Punk.[19]
Several Pro-Ject turntable models appeared in Do Not Disturb (2014 film)[20], Westworld (TV series), Season 4[21], Suits (American TV series) or The Mechanic (2011 film)[22] .