Reddit reviews Audio-Technica AT-LP120BK-USB Direct-Drive Professional Turntable (USB & Analog), Black
We found 31 Reddit comments about Audio-Technica AT-LP120BK-USB Direct-Drive Professional Turntable (USB & Analog), Black. Here are the top ones, ranked by their Reddit score.
Connectivity Technology: WiredIncluded Components: TurntableManual
Headshell/CartridgeAc Line CordDual Rca (Female) To 3.5 Mm (1/8") Mini-Plug (Male) Stereo Adapter CableDual Rca (Female) To 3.5 Mm (1/8") Mini-Plug (Female) Stereo Adapter Cable45 Rpm AdapterUsb CableRecording Software
Here’s why:
It actually DOESN’T sound good. Normally, I’m the kind of guy who goes “if it sounds good to you, it sounds good to you”, but Victrola/Crosley/etc brand turntables have incredibly INCREDIBLY cheap components, cheap speakers (that are part of the unit, which I’ll explain why that’s bad in a second), and a bunch more stuff, crammed in an ugly form factor for like $60.
Let’s break all that down:
Cheap components - depending on the model, the Victrola is either $60, or $110, frequently on sale for much less. We must also keep in mind the laws of economics, these machines are cheaper to make then they sell for. Let’s give a conservative estimate of $70 for the 8-in-1, and $40 for the 3-in-1.
The Audio Technica AT95E NEEDLE, not even a whole turntable, not even the cartridge it goes onto, just the needle costs $35, and that’s a cheap entry level needle.
Now ask yourself: if buying a needle is nearly as much as the whole turntable costs to make... how good are those parts? Probably not that great. In fact, the needle on most cheap turntables use ceramics, rather than diamond tips. Ceramic needles not only are harsher on records, but have a poorer quality sound overall.
Then we look at the motor, we need an even speed for playing back records, and with quartz crystals or belts, that’s fairly easy, but those systems are $$$, so we have a cheapo motor that can’t handle a constant speed leading to “wow and flutter”, fluctuations in pitch and sound caused by speed differences. Now, unless you have a really really high end deck, some amounts of wow and flutter are to be expected, but the Victrola has a high amount.
Then, the tone arm. Generally speaking, the needle shouldn’t be pressing down on a record more than 3-4 grams or so, depending on the needle/cartridge you are using. Because these things are portable, they need a solution that doesn’t get goofed up when you move it, so weight from the tone arm varies BY UNIT to 10+ grams. That’s CRUSHING your record, and actively wearing out the grooves. Now, yes, records DO wear out over time, but that’s after hundreds if not thousands of plays.
And lastly, the speakers. These are contained IN THE UNIT, meaning if you are playing loud, they are shaking the whole unit, and thus the needle, and thus reducing the sound. As well as the fact that these speakers are usually quite small, and as stated before, quite cheap.
The rest of the buffalo- So that’s just the turntable! Then you’ve crammed a cassette deck, a CD player, a radio (am and fm with antenna), a aux in, and a Bluetooth receiver in there, and you have to assume the cost of those parts are as cheap as well, so you really have a $20 turntable, $10 CD player, $10 radio, $10 cassette deck, $5 aux input, $10 Bluetooth chip, and $5 for plastic assembly and now you’re realizing you’ve paid $110 for a $70 Machine that promises too much and can’t fulfill much of what it claims to do very well.
Ugly- And then this is down to personal taste: dude, that shits just ugly. Faux wood paneling, a “retro” design that never really existed, disks and buttons everywhere. I’m not saying the LP-120 looks good, but it’s leagues better in comparison.
So that’s why it’s dumped upon.
So why would you spend $110 on a $70 machine, when you could save up about $100 more, and get a DRAMATICALLY BETTER MACHINE. Yes, it's made in China like the rest of the Victrola/Crosley tables, and yes, it has a plastic body, BUT!
It has:
Or, how about only $60 more, and you could get a U-Turn Orbit. It's belt driven, so if you wanna run a record at 45 RPM you'd have to move the belt, but still, DRAMATICALLY better than the motor driving a Victrola, and again, DRAMATICALLY better parts for audio. Sure it's missing a Phono preamp, but that's only $13.
In short: why would you buy a $70 machine for $110 if you could save up a bit more and get something so so so much better
To be brief, the pressure from the needle is too heavy. So basically it is slowing (but also quickly) grinding out the grooves. This is a $300+ record. Take care of it!
I recommend getting this turntable and these speakers for a starting set up.
I realize it is expensive, but worth it.
AT LP120
Apparently it was on sale over the holiday for 220 but 300 still isn't a bad price.
For simplicity's sake, I'm going to assume you want to buy new. Buying used is a whole different ballgame, and you'd have to buy a phono preamp to listen to it.
The Audio-Technica AT-LP120 is the next step above your table. Notice features like the counterweight at the rear of the tonearm, and anti-skate. It's a really nice turntable and one of the most recommended new turntables. There is a sick deal on eBay right now if you can afford it. I would buy this right now if you could, the speakers are usually 350 and they're very nice as well.
If you're in the US, I would also recommend the U-Turn Orbit. It's not automatic and the speed has to be adjusted manually, unlike the LP120, but this is the table I have and I love it. If you get this one make sure you order the custom version and add the phono preamp and cue lever. I'd say this one has a better sound than the LP120, especially since you'd be using the preamp. The built in phono preamp is the biggest complaint about the LP120. Another plus to the Orbit is that it's almost 100% made in the US, save for a few trivial parts like circuit boards. I really like the aesthetics of the table too.
Like I said, if you can afford it, buy that bundle deal I showed you on ebay. It's too good to not pass up if you're looking for speakers. Let me know if you need more help, I'd be happy to. Cheers.
If you can find a good deal on an Audio Technica LP120 (maybe open-box or lightly used), go for it. Here's all open-box units straight from Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/gp/offer-listing/B00GA9COMM/ref=dp_olp_used_mbc?ie=UTF8&condition=used&m=A2L77EE7U53NWQ
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If you were gonna drop $200 on an Electrohome, you'd be much better served to go for a
Finally got me a record player, the Audio Technica AT-LP120BK-USB. Purchased a few records. Took my time setting it up and have been extra careful handling everything. First couple nights went great, but now the start/stop button is doing nothing for me. Powers on but platter won't spin. Everything I've read on others with the same issue seems to be regarding an older model. If anyone can help me diagnose this without voiding the warranty I would be incredibly grateful.... or even point me to the appropriate sub to ask that would be great. I've^been^dying to hear some records.
*UPDATE Pt. II: Figured I have nothing to lose by trying yet another call to Amazon to see if the rep I ended up with would overrule the last one, by allowing me to exchange it (even though I'm a week or two outside the return window). Success, they're making an exception. Kudos to Amazon Customer Service and kudos to you guys for convincing me not to tinker with what must be a lemon. Fingers crossed the replacement doesn't have any issues so I can explore this world still new to me that is vinyl. Thanks!
So here's the story.
So I had that shitty Sony PSLX300USB USB Stereo Turntable for the longest time and boy was the setup I had terrible. About a month ago, you would have seen that Sony plugged into a Bose Soundlink. Yikes.
For Christmas, my step dad was awesome enough to gift me some brand new Martin Logan LX16's. After talking about upgrading my setup for a good while, I decided now was the perfect time since I had finally got some really nice passive speakers.
So I started looking at mini amps that could power these pretty efficient speakers. I found the SMSL AD18 and ordered it right away. It was small, powerful enough for my small apartment, and came packed with features.
After getting all of this in my place, my girlfriend recommended that I finally replace the Sony TT that I've been complaining about for the last year so I used a few Guitar Center gift cards that I had to pick up the black AT-LP120 for around $100.
I then came across these cheap but sturdy enough speaker stands on craigslist list for $20 here they are.
I finally got all of this setup and I couldn't be happier. I threw on The Ooz and started drooling. It's all such an upgrade for me. I noticed the felt slip mat that AT provides doesn't sit quite flat and I hear they suck anyways so I'll probably snag a rubber platter mat and call it good. Couldn't be happier.
Price History
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Don't Rook too long, these prices might not last.
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Thank you.
What are your thoughts on the Audio Technica AT-LP120BK-USB Direct-Drive Professional Turntable (USB & Analog), Black?
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00GA9COMM/ref=cm_sw_r_other_apa_i_2z.dBb7T7QC78
I'm looking to upgrade my setup and am looking into buying these items, how are these and will this setup work?
Turntable:Audio Technica LP-120
Amp:ART DJ II Phono
Speakers:Audioengine A2+
Whats a better option the Teac TN300 or the LP120?
It's a little pricey, but I have this one and it's great. If that's a bit out of your price range, try finding something that at the minimum let's you adjust the downforce on the needle and anti-skate. Best bet would probably be second hand if you wanna go really cheap.
[This is widely considered to be one of the best starter turntables at your price] (https://www.amazon.com/Audio-Technica-AT-LP120BK-USB-Direct-Drive-Professional-USB/dp/B00GA9COMM/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1542196329&sr=8-3&keywords=atlp120)
I have it, and it's worked great for me.
> If later I decide to get a sub for the system could I hook an active sub up to the receiver?
Yes, all 5.1 AV Receivers have a subwoofer pre out that you use to hook up a powered subwoofer. I assume when you say active sub, you mean powered sub, right?
> what turntable should I look at when it is time to upgrade?
It really depends how much you are willing to spend. Expect the starting point to be around $90. You might find something cheaper on the used market. In that case, make sure you at least get a new needle cartridge for it. You can't go wrong with anything made by Audio-Technica, Pioneer, or Sony.
This is a good starter turntable: https://www.amazon.com/Technica-AT-LP60BK-Automatic-Belt-Drive-Turntable/dp/B008872SIO/
Although most enthusiasts prefer something with a direct drive mechanism instead of belt driven such as this: https://www.amazon.com/Audio-Technica-AT-LP120BK-USB-Direct-Drive-Professional-USB/dp/B00GA9COMM/
Personally, I think they oversell the benefits of direct drive turntables. For most people, there's not going to be a huge benefit.
Is there any chance you or your gf can return the record player she bought? You can include that cash in the purchase of a better record player? I know it was a gift, but I can't help but feel that she wasted her money on it.
I own an Audio-Technica LP60, which is really, really good value at $100. The next step up from them is the LP120 which is basically better in every way, but starts around $300.
if i bought this turntable, do i just need to buy speakers in order to listen to it? like do i need a receiver, amp, subwoofer, preamp or anything? and if not then what would be the benefits of getting those separate things?
also if anyone could recommend a good speaker system for around $150 that'd be great!
[Budget: Below 1k.]
Hello, everyone! I never really thought I would ever get into vinyl at all, but after acquiring a few choice albums I really enjoy listening to, I figured I would start the journey! I've been doing some research, and I was wondering how these pieces work out for starting out (Wanted to remain under $1k for the entire thing.).
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00GA9COMM/ref=ox_sc_act_title_2?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER (Audio Technica AT-LP120)
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B008NCD2S4/ref=ox_sc_act_title_3?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER (Pioneer SP-FS52 Speakers)
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00EE18O7W/ref=ox_sc_act_title_4?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER (Onkyo TX-8020 Stereo Receiver)
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B009RT2IAK/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER (And some Banana Plugs to connect it all, of course.)
Any feedback is greatly appreciated!
Ha I get that it's nice to see more people getting in to vinyl. Yes there are a couple
A lot of me friends use this one they are very happy with it and it does sound really good.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00GA9COMM/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1487696432&sr=8-3&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=audiotechnica+record+player&dpPl=1&dpID=41MXvCPFcTL&ref=plSrch
Other wise there is a pioneer one that is also very good and around the same price.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01K1WUS9O/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1487696558&sr=8-3&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=pioneer+record+player&dpPl=1&dpID=51FqcyfPEgL&ref=plSrch
They both have built in phono pres to you can go straight to you aux input on your stereo. Also they both have USB out if you want to record you records to you computer to put on an music player. They are both manual so you will have to do the lifting and they are both direct drive and have pitch correction.
Hope this helps.
I'm in the process of moving into my first apartment solo and have put off getting a player until this moment. I've been reading through the basics and I saw I shouldn't put the speakers on the same surface as the player. Are there ways around this? Dampeners or something to reduce vibration? I don't have much room for everything.
Also in terms of volume levels, does anyone recommend speakers that will sound fantastic at lower levels? I'll be sharing a building with multiple tenants and don't want to crank it all the time.
I'm thinking about going with https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00GA9COMM/ref=pd_gwm_simh_0?pf_rd_p=eeda26e3-c818-411e-91c7-e824b2883986&pf_rd_s=blackjack-personal-2&pf_rd_t=Gateway&pf_rd_i=mobile&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_r=D2SVB9EKQ410RC4E05Y4&pf_rd_r=D2SVB9EKQ410RC4E05Y4&pf_rd_p=eeda26e3-c818-411e-91c7-e824b2883986
As well as https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B016P9HJIA/ref=pd_aw_fbt_23_img_2?ie=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=Q028PWC681SJP62GNBV6
But I'd like better looking speakers and I'm willing to pay a bit more.
All of this will probably sit on top of some Ikea type storage that will fit my records. Thoughts? I have a decent collection but haven't had the time to research the player too much.
Entry level user here. I just bought an AT-LP-120 USB and I want to listen mainly with headphones. I'm thinking of getting the Schiit Magni 3 Headphone Amp and Preamp for that purpose.
Is this all I'll need to start listening with headphones? The turntable came with two output cables.
Also, if I decide to get speakers in the future, will this setup be OK, or will I need another piece of equipment to get the speakers working? Thanks all!
Hi, guys. I'm deciding between an [Orbit Plus Turntable] (https://uturnaudio.com/products/orbit-plus-turntable?variant=33391890122) and an Audio Technica LP120. I just wanted to know your opinions on which one to get. Thanks in advance.
This is a copy and paste from /r/audiophile, was looking at getting your guys' and gals' opinions on my proposed setup for my boyfriend. Thanks!
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Hello guys! I am thinking about these products combined together for a nice addition to my front room. What do you guys think?
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01J67V2EU/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B007IWKX14&linkCode=as2&tag=wwwpuresimula-20&th=1
https://www.amazon.com/Audio-Technica-AT-LP120-USB-Direct-Drive-Professional-USB/dp/B00GA9COMM/ref=sr_1_2?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1536993262&sr=1-2&keywords=audio%2Btechnica%2Blp120&th=1
https://www.amazon.com/Dayton-Audio-SUB-1200-12-Inch-Subwoofer/dp/B00669L3HS
https://www.amazon.com/Gemtune-APPJ-PA1501A-amplifier-6AD10/dp/B00X5ECQ4Q/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&qid=1497619940&sr=8-8&keywords=gemtune&linkCode=sl1&tag=zeos-20&linkId=406beef5e99b3883668a4e2f6d3fb5de
https://www.amazon.com/Micca-Copper-Speaker-Plated-Banana/dp/B06ZZ5HCTM/ref=as_li_ss_tl?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B06ZZ5HCTM&pd_rd_r=Z918ZFQMNQY2D2M2B4ED&pd_rd_w=QRQfu&pd_rd_wg=dLLqn&psc=1&refRID=Z918ZFQMNQY2D2M2B4ED&linkCode=sl1&tag=zeos-20&linkId=8b6724c04e95dffa0c782d0341bf1d0c
edit: or should I switch the amp out with this one? https://www.amazon.com/SMSL-SA-98E-silver-Digital-Amplifier/dp/B00NBGECXG/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&qid=1454215590&sr=8-2&keywords=smsl+amplifier&linkCode=sl1&tag=zeos-20&linkId=6da1aff594cf85eb16f81524d9470929
AT-lp120? (i have the same player)
Looking to upgrade from my LP60 and I'm eyeing these two:
https://www.amazon.com/Pioneer-PLX-500-K-Direct-Drive-Turntable/dp/B01K1WUS9O
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00GA9COMM/ref=twister_B017BG20LW?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I know that the Lp120 has a built-in preamp, but what about the Pioneer? I'm not seeing anything about that on the page. Other than that...Is there any significant differences between these two? If I have to say by looks alone, I think I prefer the Pioneer because of the "Cover Art Display" spot but otherwise they seem pretty similar.
WILL GIVE GOLD TO ANYONE WHO TAKES THE TIME TO LOOK OVER THIS PROPERLY.
Hello guys. I could use a second opinion from anyone willing to take a look at the setup I'm planning on buying (based on shopkeeper's suggestions - I'm skeptical).
Cambridge CXA80 (https://www.amazon.com/Cambridge-Audio-CXA80-Integrated-Amplifier/dp/B00X7SXGDK)
OPPO UDP-203 (https://www.amazon.com/OPPO-UDP-203-Ultra-Blu-ray-Player/dp/B01MXLV06J)
Bowers & Wilkins CM8 S2 (http://www.bowers-wilkins.com/Speakers/Home_Audio/CM_Series/CM8-S2.html)
Or
Tannoy Revolution XT 8F (https://www.whathifi.com/tannoy/revolution-xt8f/review)
Cambridge Audio CXN (https://www.amazon.com/Cambridge-Audio-CXN-Network-Player/dp/B00WFAY08G)
AudioQuest Sydney (http://www.audioquest.com/bridges-falls/sydney)
AudioQuest Type 4 (http://www.audioquest.com/star-quad-speaker-cables/type-4)
IsoTek EVO 3 Sirius (http://www.isoteksystems.com/products/performance/evo3-sirius/)
Tidal (http://tidal.com/us)
Audio Technica AT-LP120BK (https://www.amazon.com/AT-LP120BK-USB-Direct-Drive-Professional-Turntable-USB/dp/B00GA9COMM/ref=sr_1_2?s=aht&srs=2528981011&ie=UTF8&qid=1491694460&sr=1-2)
EDIT:
Room size - 750 square feet
Music: Electronic, Rock, everything in between
https://www.amazon.com/Audio-Technica-AT-LP120-USB-Direct-Drive-Professional-USB/dp/B00GA9COMM?th=1
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How's that one look? Xmas is coming. ;)
got a turntable last year bc of the blonde vinyl! can't recommend this one highly enough
really solid recommendation. I'd just throw AT LP-120 into the mix. I prefer the U-Turn myself but maybe he likes something with more features compared to the plain TT.
Records shown, from left to right:
Algernon Cadwallader - Algernon Cadwallader
Andrew Jackson Jihad - People Who Can Eat People are the Luckiest People in the World
Deafheaven - New Bermuda
Deafheaven - Roads to Judah
Deafheaven - Sunbather
Destroyer - Kaputt
Dr. Octagon - Dr. Octagonecologyst
El-P - Cancer 4 Cure
Ennio Morricone - The Hateful Eight Soundtrack
Father John Misty - I Love You Honeybear
Gorillaz - Plastic Beach
Grimes - Art Angels
The Hotelier - Goodness
J Dilla - Donuts
Mac Demarco - Another One
The Mountain Goats - Beat the Champ
My Chemical Romance - I Brought You My Bullets, You Brought Me
Your Love
Sufjan Stevens - Carrie and Lowell
Sufjan Stevens - Illinoise
Sufjan Stevens - Michigan
Tool - Lateralus
Wolves in the Throne Room - Celestite
Currently listening on a Jensen (I know) with some okayish water speakers. Upgrading VERY soon to a new turntable and some new speakers
All of my records are sleeved in Sound Sleeves brand clear sleeves because I am worried about wear.