Audio-Technica AT-LP5X Fully Manual Direct Drive Turntable

Product Information

If you want to play 78s, you will need to change the stylus to something designed for the job, such as Audio-Technica’s AT-VM95SP. Products labelled '*item fulfilled by Exertis on behalf of hmv' will be supplied to you directly by Exertis via their approved couriers. As for modcons, there’s no Bluetooth support here – Bluetooth being a dirty word among some analogue enthusiasts, a quality of life feature for others – but there is USB output for anyone looking to digitise their sacred vinyl. We think it sounds a touch cleaner and clearer than before, but not enough for it to be worth anyone with the older deck upgrading to this. The Audio Technica AT-LP5X Hi-Fi Turntable showcases its prowess with direct-drive technology, offering unmatched precision and stability for vinyl enthusiasts.

The LP5X is a ‘super OEM’ turntable built upon a standard platform by the Chinese outfit Hanpin, though Audio-Technica appear to have a great deal more input into their designs than other manufacturers who choose to base their decks upon similar platforms; Pioneer, Sony and Reloop to name just a few. Today, Audio-Technica’s audio products have become globally synonymous with consistently high sonic performance paired with impeccable build construction and artistic design. I have seen both the NAD C558 and C588 though and the Regas and the EVO are readily available, Take care Paul and thanks again. You can also connect straight to your computer, speaker and stereo systems with the built in switchable MM/MC phono pre amplifier. The LP5x also offers a USB port (supporting up to 16bit/48kHz) for potential vinyl ripping (again, that’s missing on the 140).If you flick back to my review of the 140, you’ll also find a comparison between the 140 and the RT83. It’s a niche within a niche, but 78 playback is a great addition for the budding vinyl fan looking to widen the scope of their collection.

But it must be said that this is an excellent demonstration of what the VM95 is capable of, even with one of the better styli mounted, where things clean up still further and the sound opens up in a very pleasing way.Designed for the discerning modern audiophile, the AT-LP5X boasts a built-in, switchable phono pre-amplifier, adjustable anti-skate control, rugged construction, and USB connectivity for digital archiving. With compatibility across the VM95 series of replacement styluses, it grants users the ability to upgrade or select a specific stylus for a custom listening experience. This also means that the meaty IEC mains cable of the 140 is replaced by a weedy LP5x wall wart-type wire. Make sure to check your tracking force (ideally using a cheaply available digital tracking force scale) and ensure the anti-skate is set to match.