anybody running a Pro-Ject turntable balanced?


local dealer put forth a sweet offer to me on an Xtention 9 EVO with Pro-Jects top of the line phono 

my reservation is the build quality on their units, seems to be far below comparably priced units from other brands

the entry Pro-Ject level stuff that gets promoted heavily from what hifi and online reviews seems super cheap

xtention line seems better but to my eyes nowhere near technics, VIP, even used Linns

stereophile rates their phono as class A and there appears to be positive sentiment around these Pro-Ject balanced systems and yet all the turntable experts here seem to favour other brands and combos

appreciate any feedback

also, what would you choose to run instead for phono  and table in the same price bracket?

 

 

 

audiocanada

I had a Linn (Sondek LP12) & an Xtension evo (12), and the build quality of the Linn was noticeably inferior compared to the pro-ject. I don;t know about other, comparably priced, products.

BTW, my Linn was (much) more expensive than the Pro-ject.
Good luck

I had a RPM 9 that I bought used and now have a Signature 10 that I bought new.  The used unit I got at a bargain and was my reentry to vinyl.  The new unit was chosen because it's one of the brands supported by the guys that installed my home theater (and the matte finish burl walnut plinth).  I can't offer a comparison with other premium brands.  I am generally pleased with the quality of both units and can't really say there were any deficiencies in either unit.

@audiocanada Based on what I'm seeing in terms of price of the xtension models, I would go with a Technics SL1200G in a heartbeat. IMO its a better machine in just about every way and is about the same cost.