Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB Manual Direct-Drive Turntable (Analogue & USB)

Product Information

The Rega doesn’t have it all its own way though because the 120x does well around the lower frequencies, both in bass terms but also the lower end of the mids. The bass guitar provided more presence from the 120x while the aggression in the acoustic guitar strums where better appreciated via the 120x. The Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB is a manual turntable specifically designed for audiophiles and music enthusiasts. It features an aluminium platter and offers three nominal speeds: 33 1/3, 45, and 78 RPM. The turntable is equipped with a DC servo motor, which ensures smooth and precise rotation.

Featuring a direct drive motor, the AT-LP120XUSB gives superb pitch stability. It also gives the swift start and stop times needed for complete control when mixing.

Conclusion

The Fluance RT81 does provide a built-in phono amp but not a USB port. It does offer a semi-automatic play facility though and a belt driven motor instead of the direct drive affair. The RT81 justifies its build budget in a different way and offers an alternative sonic signature that some will find appealing. What it also offers the potential customer is choice. Something different from the 120x. The direct drive’s capability to add a sense of focus and precision in and around the lower frequencies helped the music to move along at a fair old clip. At no time did it every drag or feel stodgy. The 120x was there to encourage and push this album along. The result was a wholly infectious sonic experience. One that dared you not to leap from your chair and offer a few ‘Dad Moves’ around the listening room. I must say that I succumbed. My wife, who witnessed the event, is attending emergency therapy, Monday morning. CONCLUSION

I initially wanted to compare the new 120x with the older 120 but was unable to grab one for this review. I asked Audio-Technica for a sample and you would have expected the company to have one available somewhere wouldn’t you? You would have thought that one would have been kept on, for old times sake. Sitting in a nearby closet, wedged under the stairs, acting as a door stop and keeping the fire door open or even being used part of a large scale game of Jengo. But no. Nothing. Robust build, powerful direct drive with pitch control and USB interface make the Audio Technica LP120XUSB ideal for mixing or home use alike. It may not be the best Audio Technica turntables on the market, but it’s certainly one of the best one for the money. Best Selling Turntables The turntable also boasts tone control, enabling users to adjust the treble, bass, and balance to their desired preference. This feature allows for a more personalized listening experience and adds versatility to the device.I mentioned that acoustic guitar strum bite and the raft of information around that simple motion. There was much more information around this area from the 120x. The Fluance nodded towards the acoustic guitar strums but never dwelt upon it so it held less importance in the mix. The 120x wanted you to hear it and feel its significance. The same should be said of the later cymbal taps which offered greater delicacy and fragility via the 120x. The AT-LP120 just get an enormous amount of love in the turntable community. And there must be a reason for that.