Turntables Comparison: Pro-Ject Essential II vs Audio-Technica AT-LP3

Compare detailed specifications, side-by-side differences, verified user reviews, and buying recommendations to help you make the right choice.

Pro-Ject Essential II

Pro-Ject Essential II

  • Brand Pro-Ject
  • Weight, Kg/pounds 3.7/8.8
  • Power Consumption, W 3
  • Type moving magnet (MM)
  • Appropriate Needle Pressure, G 3,5
Audio-Technica AT-LP3

Audio-Technica AT-LP3

  • Brand Audio-Technica
  • Weight, Kg/pounds 5.4/11.9
  • Power Consumption, W 2
  • Type moving magnet (MM)
  • Appropriate Needle Pressure, G 2

Quick Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?

Deciding between the Pro-Ject Essential II and the Audio-Technica AT-LP3 depends on your available space, storage capacity goals, and everyday usage style:

Best For Maximum Capacity

Pro-Ject Essential II

Designed for large households, bulk grocery shoppers, and long-term storage where total cubic feet is the highest priority.

  • Superior Volume: Easily stores bulk meats, frozen garden harvests, and family packs.
  • Cold Retention: Keeps food frozen significantly longer in power outages.
  • Energy Efficiency: Top-opening design keeps dense cold air trapped inside.
Best For Compact Spaces

Audio-Technica AT-LP3

Ideal for apartments, offices, dorms, or secondary kitchen use where space efficiency and neat organization are paramount.

  • Space-Saving Footprint: Fits neatly under counters or in compact corners without intruding.
  • Upright Organization: Shelves allow you to organize and grab items without digging.
  • Everyday Convenience: Front-swing door provides quick, easy access anytime.

Pros & Cons

Pro-Ject Essential II

VS

Pros

    • The price point is fit to buyers who search for budget-friendly options.
    • The user is delivered a dust cover and one cartridge in addition.
    • The bass response is rich and well-defined.

Cons

    • The platter mat may stick to vinyl records when you try to take it off.

Audio-Technica AT-LP3

VS

Pros

    • Belt-driven turntable for smooth, quiet operation
    • Available in black or silver
    • Removable dust cover for easy cleaning
    • Automatic start and stop function for convenience

Cons

    • Cannot play 78 RPM records
    • Lack of height adjustment of the tonearm base.

Specifications

Specification Pro-Ject Essential II Audio-Technica AT-LP3
Cartridge
Appropriate Needle Pressure, G 3,5 2
Type moving magnet (MM) moving magnet (MM)
Supplied Headshell Weight, G 5 11
Motor
Torque >4.5 kgf-cm —
Speed, RPM 33.3, 45 33.3, 45
Platter Type aluminum diecast aluminum diecast
Drive Method belt belt
Wow & Flutter (WRMS), % 0.25 0.25
Controls
Pitch Variation, % +/-1,5 No
Pitch Control No No
Operation Type full manual full automatic
Braking System — electronic
Dimensions
Size, Cm/inches 11.2 x 41.5 x 33.5/4.4 x 16.5 x 13 12.8 x 43.5 x 35.3/5 x 17.1 x 13.9
Weight, Kg/pounds 3.7/8.8 5.4/11.9
Power
Power Consumption, W 3 2
Features
Other has not has not
45 RPM Adapter Yes Yes
Dust Cover Yes Yes
Sound
Output Level 4 mV nominal at 1 kHz, 5 cm/sec 3.5 mV nominal at 1 kHz, 5 cm/sec
Gain — 36
Signal To Noise Ratio, DB 65 60
Frequency Response, Hz 20 - 25000 —
Stylus
Model Ortofon OM-5E AT91R
Type moving magnet (MM) moving magnet (MM)
Replaceable Yes Yes
Connections
Other has not has not
RCA 1 1

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Frequently Asked Questions

The main differences center around storage capacity, form factor, and convenience. The Pro-Ject Essential II provides extensive bulk storage capacity best suited for homes, garages, or basements needing deep freeze space. In contrast, the Audio-Technica AT-LP3 offers a compact upright design that fits into smaller spaces with convenient shelf organization.

Chest-style freezers generally excel in thermal efficiency because cold air naturally settles at the bottom and does not escape when the lid is lifted. Compact upright models have lower total kilowatt-hour usage simply due to their smaller cubic volume, making both designs efficient for their respective intended purposes.

Both products are listed on Amazon with full manufacturer warranties, customer reviews, and fast delivery options. Click the "Check Price on Amazon" buttons in the comparison cards above to view today's latest promotions, verified customer ratings, and current availability.

Measure your available floor clearance first. If you have open space in a garage, basement, or utility room and want to freeze items in bulk, choose the Pro-Ject Essential II. If you have limited room in a kitchen, apartment, dorm, or office and prefer easy eye-level access to items, choose the Audio-Technica AT-LP3.