If you enjoy both Metallica's music and vinyl records, you might want to hide your wallet right now to avoid succumbing to the temptation. However, it's probably already too late if you’re reading this post.
Metallica and Pro-Ject have collaborated to create a top-of-the-line turntable, featuring the Metallica Ninja Star designed by James Hetfield. For those who don’t know, the Metallica ninja star became a thing in the 90s and is made up of four “M’s” placed around a point to create a star. Pro-Ject has said this was just one in a long line of artist collaborations, but that this one offered something that’s uniquely Metallica.
What do we think of the turntable? Well, we can say the aggressively spiky, mirror-finished metal body will shamelessly dominate any settings you place it in.
Aside from the aesthetics, there is a ton of audiophile-grade technology included, including an audiophile-grade Pick it S2 C cartridge, a diamond-tipped stylus needle, and an aluminum sub-platter, this not only gives the overall appearance a shining accent, but it also contributes extra bulk to dampen noise and prevent undesired resonances. The tonearm components are made of aluminum as well. Pro-Ject Audio Systems only uses the best components and manufactures handmade goods solely in Europe. They have taken pride in the absence of any plastic parts on this turntable.
This limited edition turntable is set on solid, height-adjustable metal feet which provides stability to the entire system, while the electronic speed controls let you easily switch between 33 and 45 RPM with the flip of a button. Oh, and it's good to know there is also a belt for 78 RPM records.
