- Pro-Ject's first Artist Collection turntable release of 2026 is in
- The Scorpions deck features artwork from the band’s 1982 album, Blackout
- Based on the Pro-Ject T2, priced £629 (around $846 or AU$1,257, where sold)
Pro-Ject is once again making waves in the audio world with its latest release. Following the success of its AC/DC-themed turntable and a light-up Elvis-themed deck, the Austrian manufacturer has introduced the Pro-Ject Scorpions Turntable, showcasing striking artwork from the German band's 1982 album, Blackout.
For those unfamiliar with the band, the Scorpions have been a significant force in rock music since their formation in Hanover in 1965, selling over 100 million albums worldwide. Blackout, the band's eighth studio album, was ranked 73rd on Rolling Stone's list of the 100 greatest metal albums of all time in 2017.
The album cover, which is not for the faint-hearted, is based on a self-portrait by artist Gottfried Helnwein, depicting a bandaged figure with a mouth frozen in mid-scream, surrounded by twisted forks aimed at the eyes.
This artwork was not originally created for the album; it dates back to around 1981–82. Schenker and fellow band member Klaus Meine discovered the image in Stern magazine and obtained Helnwein’s permission to use it, making only minor adjustments for the album cover.
Pro-Ject's Scorpions Turntable: Ready to Rock
The story behind the album's title track is equally rock 'n' roll. As Schenker recounted to the Las Vegas Review-Journal, the song emerged from a wild party with members of Judas Priest and Def Leppard, leading to a blackout that inspired the album's title.
The Pro-Ject Artist Collection celebrates influential bands and musicians, and the Scorpions Turntable is handmade in Europe, based on the Pro-Ject T2 model. It features a belt-drive design, an enlarged CNC-machined plinth for stability, and a heavy glass platter to minimize resonance. The turntable's feet are designed to isolate it from external vibrations.
Equipped with a straight 9-inch aluminum tonearm and a pre-adjusted Pick it 25A Moving Magnet Ortofon cartridge, this turntable is ready to deliver an exceptional audio experience right out of the box.
The Pro-Ject Scorpions Turntable is available for special order in the UK at a price of £629, with European pricing set at €649. Pricing in other regions will be announced soon, translating to approximately $846 or AU$1,257.
While it may not come with the album's music, the turntable features the iconic artwork printed on the plinth, making it a must-have for fans. Thank you, Pro-Ject, for this incredible tribute!