Audio-Technica AT-LP120-USB Modern Record Player Review

Ranked #1 in Record Players

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4.7/5

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Pros

• Excellent sound quality
• Very versatile
• Easy to use
• Quick setup

Cons

• Can wear over time

Meet the Audio-Technica AT-LP120-USB. One of the most popular USB & analog modern record players at the moment. The AT-LP120-USB is Audio-Technica's take at an affordable modern turntable that will wow any audiophile. The modern record player is a feature-packed and well-built unit that'll revive your good old vinyls with crystal clarity audio.

Introducing the Audio-Technica AT-LP120-USB

The Audio-Technica AT-LP120-USB is one of the most comprehensive modern record players on the market. With an affordable price tag, this unit should be considered by all music lovers. Whether you listen to your old records once in a while or you’re a real vinyl geek, the Audio-Technica AT-LP120-USB will surely live up to your expectations.

Audio-Technica is one of the most reputable brands in the industry with more than 50 years of devotion to music on their back. When you buy an Audio-Technica product, you know you’re buying quality. Their level of expertise in the field shines through with their products. Every single detail is taken into account to bring the most powerful unit to life for us to enjoy.

Lots of Options & Versatility

I am amazed by all the things the Audio-Technica AT-LP120-USB can do. It is a relatively cheap unit compared to others that do the same amount of things.

Firstly, this professional turntable has selectable speeds of 33 1/3, 45 or 78 RPM. Basically, this is like a video camera supporting SD, HD and 4K quality. The 33 1/3 RPM format is rarely used since a vinyl sounds better the faster it spins. On the other hand, the faster it spins, the less information can be translated into music at a given moment. The soft spot has proved to be the 45 RPM format. Some people still like the 78 RPM speed format better, though. In any case, it’s a nice option to have.

This turntable also comes with a forward and reverse operation option, which can be a pretty useful feature to have. Also, there is pitch control with quartz speed lock for extra accuracy. You can adjust ranges to either +/-10% or +/-20% – whichever suits you the best.

Additionally, the Audio-Technica AT-LP120-USB supports high-quality software for both Mac and Windows. The software can be used with USB connectivity to playback audio and even digitize your records into audio files on your computer.

Excellent Sound Quality

Audio-Technica has always been known for their ability to create gear that sounds stunning. The AT-LP120-USB is no exception. Actually, the music reproduction from this unit, is far better sounding than many more expensive units. It will definitely do the job for casual listeners as well as audiophiles.

The Audio-Technica AT-LP120-USB features a built-in pre-amp. The phono pre-amp has RCA output cables, so you can easily hook up the unit to a wide variety of speakers.

The direct-drive, high-torque motor ensures that all playback runs smoothly – and for years to come. Also, the die-cast aluminum platter is made to balance out interference, creating less distortion.

The Audio-Technica AT-LP120-USB has an anti-skate needle equipped. With anti-skate, you get a more balanced audio reproduction between the left and right channels. The entire audio scape is depicted more accurately and with more detail.

Keep in mind, the unit does not have built-in speakers. It simply sends the sound signal through the output. The important part here is the recreation quality which is pretty much flawless.

Pros & Cons

We’ve noted down some of the most important factors you have to consider before buying this unit.

Pros

• The sound quality is great. You’re gonna get a clean and accurate reproduction of the analog vinyl signal. Works great with both USB and analog output.
• The unit is very versatile. It comes with software for both Mac and Windows. The pre-amp and direction feature make things really easy to manage.
• It is very easy to use. Don’t worry about a steep learning curve or advanced features you’ll never be able to figure out. Everything is simple, powerful and to the point. The user experience is key to this product.
• The modern record player can quickly be put together. You’ll be rolling tunes within 15 minutes from unboxing!

Cons

• Even though the unit is quite bulky, it will wear over time. Some of the components are of questionable quality (which often happens with mass-produced units like this). If you’re struggling with your unit, you have 1-year full warranty from Audio-Technica though.
• Few customers have complained about the platter being warped. This probably comes down to a few units, though. Audio-Technica have surely been made aware.

Verdict of the Audio-Technica AT-LP120-USB

All in all, the Audio-Technica AT-LP120-USB is a great competitor for the best modern record player. This simple yet versatile solution brings lots of value to the table at a low cost. The Audio-Technica AT-LP120-USB can do much more than some of the more expensive competitors.

Additionally, the audio produced by the unit is extremely great. It sounds very expensive, but it isn’t! You are getting a 23.5 lbs powerhouse of a record player at a nominal price. The USB and direct output will be more than enough for most. You will surely enjoy this, whether you casually enjoy music once in a while or you’re a hardcore vinyl fanatic.

The only drawback is the slightly questionable quality on some of the parts. As an example, the platter is known to have been slightly warped on some units. This will, of course, result in a quality loss and quicker wear of the turntable. If you have issues, however, Audio-Technica is a very trusted company that’ll love to help you out. Keep in mind you get a 1-year full warranty from the manufacturer.

If you want a great sounding turntable that can do a lot, look no further. The Audio-Technica AT-LP120-USB is bound to make you happy for a very long time – And it won’t hurt your wallet at all.

Product Specifications

Audio Quality	A
Built Quality	B+
Features	A
Operation	Manual
Drive Method	Direct Drive
Speeds	33 1/3, 45, 78
Anti-Skate
Wi-Fi
Bluetooth
USB
AUX
Internal Speakers