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Today, I am excited to review a turntable from a well-known brand, Audio-Technica. To say that I was blown away by the sound quality would be an understatement. This turntable is perfect for audiophiles who want to experience high-fidelity audio of vinyl. It’s the perfect combo of old and new tech, with the added feature of audio conversion from vinyl to digital. As someone who is new to turntables, I did a lot of research before deciding on Audio-Technica. I was definitely impressed. Let’s dive into the details and decide if this product is for you.
High-Fidelity Audio of Vinyl
If you’ve been looking for a new way to enjoy vinyl records, then look no further than this turntable. It’s a great first turntable for those who wish to experience vinyl’s superior audio quality. The Audio-Technica Direct-Drive Turntable offers an unparalleled listening experience. With its direct-drive, DC servo motor, selectable 33/45/78 RPM speeds, and adjustable dynamic anti-skate control, you can enjoy the full range of sound that vinyl has to offer. The damped base construction also reduces low-frequency feedback coloration for a more accurate sound reproduction.
Fully Manual Operation
The Auto-Technica turntable is fully manual, meaning that you have complete control over every aspect of the playback process. This includes adjustable dynamic anti-skate control, variable pitch control with quartz speed lock, and a balanced S-shaped tonearm with hydraulically damped lift control and lockable rest. This level of manual control allows for a more personalized and precise listening experience. Whether adjusting the pitch to match the original recording or ensuring smooth tracking, this turntable provides the tools necessary for an exceptional vinyl experience.
Vinyl to Digital Conversion
We can’t write a review of this product without mentioning its standout feature: its ability to convert vinyl records to digital audio files. By downloading the free Mac and PC-compatible Audacity recording software (or any software of your choice), you can easily transfer your vinyl collection to a digital format. This feature is perfect for archiving and sharing your vinyl collection, or for simply enjoying your records on the go. You’ll get a better sound than Spotify (well, kind of) while keeping all of the benefits and convenience of it. It even comes with a USB cable and free recording software to make the process that much easier.
Value for Money
The Audio-Technica turntable offers exceptional value for its price point. Don’t just take it from me — this product boasts a 4.7 out of 5 rating on Amazon for value for money. Clearly, it provides an affordable and high-quality option for vinyl enthusiasts and beginners alike. Its robust and unique feature set makes it a versatile and practical investment for any music lover. The turntable’s durability ensures it will withstand the test of time, while its sleek design adds a touch of elegance to any audio setup. It’s a great investment all-around.
Built-in Preamp
This product features a built-in preamp, which amplifies the signal from the stylus to a level that an amplifier can use. This eliminates the need for an external preamp or phono amp, making it a convenient and cost-effective option for those with limited space or budget. However, it is important to note that powered speakers or an amp are still required for use with passive speakers. Overall, this turntable’s combination of quality, convenience, and affordability makes it an excellent choice for anyone looking to enjoy the rich, warm sound of vinyl records.
User Reviews
Let’s take a closer look at more user reviews of the Auto-Technica turntable. You’ll be happy to learn that they’re overwhelmingly positive, with many praising its sound quality and ease of use. Some users have noted that the turntable is made primarily of plastic, but this does not seem to have a negative impact on its performance. Additionally, some have expressed disappointment with the slip mat and lack of height adjustment for the tonearm, but these are minor issues in the grand scheme of things.
Pros:
- The Audio-Technica offers high-fidelity audio of vinyl with its direct-drive, DC servo motor and selectable 33/45/78 RPM speeds.
- The turntable has fully manual operation with adjustable dynamic anti-skate control, variable pitch control with quartz speed lock, and balance d S-shaped tonearm with hydraulically damped lift control and lockable rest.
- With the free Mac and PC-compatible Audacity recording software, you can convert your vinyl records to digital audio files.
Cons:
- The built-in preamp requires powered speakers or plugging it into an amp to use passive speakers.
- The stylus and cartridge that come with the unit are for modern stereo recordings on vinyl, so you may need to buy a stylus or cartridge made specifically for old monaural 78s.
- The turntable is made mostly of plastic, with the exception of the tonearm assembly and a metal bottom panel.
Conclusion
Overall, I am extremely satisfied with my purchase of the Audio-Technica turntable. It is a great way to get into the hobby of vinyl records and see if it’s worth it to upgrade to a more expensive turntable. The sound quality is excellent, and the ability to convert vinyl records to digital audio files is a great bonus. The only downside is that it is made of plastic, but given the price point, this is to be expected. I highly recommend this turntable to anyone looking for a high-quality, affordable turntable.
Questions & Answers:
Question: How old is Audio-Technica?
Answer: According to the company’s website, Auto-Technica was founded in 1962. Clearly, they’ve kept up with the times.
Question: Can I play old 78 slate LPs on this turntable?
Answer: Yes, but you may need to buy a stylus or cartridge made specifically for old monaural 78s.
Question: How much does the Auto-Technica turntable cost?
Answer: Currently, it goes for $349 on Amazon. If this is too expensive for you, then you can pay for it in installments over the course of one year. You can buy a used version for $287, and receive a return within 30 days if you don’t like the product for whatever reason.
