Whether you are a long-time turntable enthusiast or it’s your most recent obsession, Audio- Technica has a turntable for all experience levels. There are a few factors to consider when choosing a turntable, like the ease of setup and use, whether it has automatic or manual operation, the playback speeds it offers, and more. To learn more about these turntable features, check out our Question of the Week on the topic. To assist in your vinyl journey, see the turntables below that are best suitied for new, intermediate, and advanced users!
Best Turntables for New Users
For users who are just starting out on their vinyl journey and looking to simply press play, the AT-LP60X and the AT-LP60XBT-USB are perfect, beginner-friendly turntables. Thanks to their easy-to-use setup and redesigned headshell, these turntables require no additional effort!
If you are just getting into records, the AT-LP60X is an affordable and easy-to-use option to experience the high-fidelity audio of vinyl. This fully automatic belt-drive turntable plays both 33⅓ and 45 RPM records while being able to connect directly to a home stereo, powered speakers, or computers thanks to the built-in switchable phono preamp. This turntable comes with a detachable RCA output cable (3.5 mm male to dual RCA male), 45 RPM adapter, and removable hinged dust cover.
Love the features of the AT-LP60X but want the convenience of Bluetooth® wireless and USB connectivity? The AT-LP60XBT-USB is the perfect choiceto experience vinyl listening through any Bluetooth® device. The CSR BT chipset allows this turntable to connect to speakers, headphones, and other wireless devices, including those that support the Qualcomm® aptX™ audio codec, which offers much-improved sound quality over the standard SBC codec. This fully automatic belt-drive turntable includes all the features of the AT-LP60X with a redesigned tonearm base and headshell to improve tracking and reduce resonance.
Best Turntables for Intermediate Users
For those ready for a more advanced turntable, the following models allow you to take your analog listening experience to the next level. These turntables are great for intermediate users looking to be more hands-on with their turntable. These models allow listeners to remove the headshell, replace the cartridge, adjust the tracking force, and calibrate the tonearm.
The AT-LPW30BK is a stunning, fully manual, belt-drive turntable designed to give listeners high-fidelity audio reproduction from vinyl. The aesthetically pleasing anti-resonance plinth with black wood veneer limits low-frequency acoustic feedback to ensure you experience top-tier audio with sophisticated styling. This two-speed (33⅓ and 45 RPM) turntable includes a straight aluminum tonearm, a built-in selectable phono preamp, and a detachable dual RCA output cable to enable direct connection to components with or without a dedicated phono input.
The AT-LP120XBT-USB fully manual turntable features Bluetooth® wireless connectivity, a USB cable, and a dual RCA output cable to provide users with a variety of listening options. Perfect for experienced turntable enthusiasts, this model includes professional features, such as a specially designed DC servo direct-drive motor and adjustable dynamic anti-skate control. This professional turntable plays 33⅓, 45, and 78 RPM records and outputs the high-fidelity audio to the device of your choice. Alongside the die-cast aluminum platter with felt mat, the AT-LP120XBT-USB includes an S-shaped tonearm with an adjustable tracking force.
Best Turntable for Advanced Users
Experienced audiophiles who demand analog audio of the highest quality will enjoy these advanced turntables that draw upon the rich analog heritage of Audio-Technica and feature sleek designs. These turntables are constructed from the finest materials, offer advanced features, and give the user greater control over their listening experience.
The direct-drive AT-LP5X features upgraded technology, while keeping the contemporary style and acclaimed performance of its predecessor, the AT-LP5. The J-shaped tonearm is fitted with a lightweight (9.3 g) AT-HS6 headshell, a black AT-VM95E Dual Moving Magnet stereo cartridge, and an adjustable counterweight and anti-skate control. This turntable has been designed to limit low-frequency acoustic feedback, while the die-cast aluminum platter is powered by a direct-drive, low-noise motor, ensuring stable, on-axis rotation at 33⅓, 45 and 78 RPM.
The fully manual belt-drive AT-LP7 turntable is designed around the Audio-Technica VM cartridge line, incorporating the finest materials and structures in support of the cartridge’s performance. The J-shaped tonearm features a metallic gimbal suspension system and precision bearings to mitigate tracking errors, and includes an adjustable counterweight and anti-skate control. This premium turntable comes with a VM520EB Dual Moving Magnet Cartridge with a 10 g AT-HS10 headshell. The 0.3 x 0.7 mil elliptical bonded stylus can be replaced with any of the other six styli available in the VM line, giving users an easy means of upgrading the stylus without buying a whole new cartridge.