If you’re amassing a vinyl collection, having one of the best record players turntables is a must. It’s the only way to truly enjoy the high-quality audio trapped inside vinyl records. For audio quality, we turn to the Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB-BK for assistance. It uses a direct-drive motor, with anti-skate control, to produce the audio you need for vinyls.
Why We Like It – Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB-BK Review
If you’re a big fan of audio quality, this turntable will be your best friend—especially if you have a large collection of vinyls that deserve better treatment.
- USB port can convert vinyl to digital
- Direct drive motor
- Excellent pricing
- Need some preexisting experience with turntables
Performance
For the Audio Technica, the major players here have to be the direct drive motor, opposed to a drive belt, and the anti skate control. While direct drives are inferior in sound quality compared to belt drives, that wasn’t an issue for us. Sound quality was still great, given the price. And plus, having a direct drive turntable comes with much better reliability. A great example of a turntable with a high-torque direct drive motor is in our Audio technica at LP120 usb review.
What was really nice was the die cast aluminum platter with felt mat, providing a professional grade anti-resonance, minimizing the amount of vibration. It’s really easy to alter the speed in which the record plays, considering some require different rpms. You have a choice between 33, 45, and 78rpm records. Interested in a 3-speed record player with a replacement needle, 2 in-built stereo speakers, and a portable vintage suitcase? Click our Byron statics turntable vintage record player review.
Design
As simplistic in design the Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB-BK is, we were rather fond of it. Compared to old turntables, it resembles them in spirit but with a modern coat. But if old timey turntables are what you’re into, check out the Crosley CR704D-PA and Victrola VTA-600B-ESP.
A few switches and sliders are dotted around the top. Not just pre amp, but a small slider that switches between phono preamp and line-level output. On the side, you’ll find a phono preamp for phono and line-level output. Pitch control is found near the turntable itself. This record player features an adjustable tracking force, linked to an S-shaped tonearm, with a headshell that uses an AT-VM95E dual cartridge. The VM95E cartridge is 1/2-inch universal AT-HS6.
Value
A lot of value is packed into the Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB-BK. For someone who wants a budget record player, one that has great sound quality, we definitely give this our mark of approval. It’s especially true if you have a bunch of rare records you want to digitize. In fact, this Audio Technica LP120 USB turntable features a USB output, making it incredibly easy to convert your collection of vinyl records. However, this is the kind of turntable you keep at home. If you travel often, take a Byron Statics Turntable Vintage Record Player with you.
Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB-BK Review Wrap Up
If you consider yourself an audiophile, the Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB-BK is your best bet. And, quite frankly, it has some of the highest audio quality on our list. Part of the magic is the direct-drive motor and high quality build. You’ll need to familiarize yourself with it, however. In doing so, you’ll be converting vinyl to digital in no time, and for a great price.
