Platine vinyle Audio Technica AT-LP5X

This new version of the Audio-Technica AT-LP5X turntable incorporates many features from the previous model, along with a few modifications designed to enhance its already excellent performance.

The AT-LP5X incorporates many mechanical and electronic components from the Japanese manufacturer’s professional and DJ-grade products, but the entire system has been adapted and optimized so that this turntable delivers performance worthy of a home audio turntable.

AUDIO TECHNICA AT-LP5X: DESIGN

Its appearance is particularly appealing. It combines the solid build of certain well-known turntables, such as the Technics SL1200 (not to name any names!), with the elegance of European home audio models.

Its matte black finish also contributes to its very contemporary design and blends perfectly with the lines of the AT-LP5X tonearm.

The entire chassis of the Audio Technica AT-LP5X turntable is very rigid. It rests on four large shock-absorbing feet that minimize resonance and rumble in the bass frequencies.

AUDIO TECHNICA AT-LP5X: PLATTER AND DRIVE SYSTEM

The drive system is borrowed from professional turntables.

The non-magnetic cast aluminum platter is damped by a thick, high-quality rubber mat. It is driven by a direct-drive AC motor, so there is no belt. This allows playback of 33, 45, and 78 RPM records.

AUDIO TECHNICA AT-LP5X: TONARM AND CARTRIDGE

The “S”-shaped tonearm on this AT-LP5X turntable was designed to minimize tracking error. It draws inspiration from Audio Technica models produced in the 1960s and 1970s.

The tonearm comes standard with an AT-HS6 cartridge holder fitted with an Audio Technica AT-VM95E cartridge.

AUDIO TECHNICA AT-LP5X: BUILT-IN PHONO PREAMP

The Audio Technica AT-LP5X features a new RIAA phono preamp compatible with both MM and MC cartridges. However, its 56 dB gain for MC is fairly modest. It can only be used with MC cartridges that have an output level greater than 0.6 mV.

It also features a USB output that allows you to digitize your vinyl records on your computer. An installation CD for the Audacity® software is included with the turntable.

You can use a switch to bypass the phono preamp section and connect the AT-LP5X to a traditional phono input.

AUDIO TECHNICA AT-LP5X: INCLUDED ACCESSORIES

The package includes: a power cord, a phono cable, a USB cable, a dust cover, and an aluminum 45 rpm spindle!

AUDIO TECHNICA AT-LP5X: TEST AND LISTENING

Once the Audio Technica AT-LP5X turntable is unboxed and set up on the shelf… you can definitely say you get your money’s worth!

It is both imposing and understated. This product exudes a sense of solidity. It clearly belongs to the family of professional-grade products. Former DJs and nightclub aficionados will be delighted with this AT-LP5X.

This turntable from Audio Technica reproduces music with great dynamics, clarity, and energy.

The frequency response is very balanced, although there is a slight roll-off at the high end of the spectrum.

The bass, meanwhile, is particularly impactful. It will make a strong impression with reggae, electronic music, and all contemporary genres.

If you’re a fan of jazz and classical music, this Audio Technica AT-LP5X turntable may not fully meet your expectations in terms of finesse and nuance. However, by replacing the cartridge with a higher-end model, we achieved amazing results!

Note that the phono cable can also be replaced if you’re not using the turntable’s built-in phono preamp.

For anyone looking for an efficient, sturdy turntable equipped with a phono preamp that delivers a dynamic and physical sound, the Audio-Technica AT-LP5X is the model of your dreams!

Its value for the price makes it a real winner!

FAQ: Everything you need to know before buying the Audio-Technica AT-LP5X

Does the AT-LP5X have a built-in phono preamplifier?

Yes. It has a built-in RIAA phono preamplifier compatible with MM and MC, which lets you connect it directly to a line input. Its 56 dB MC gain is modest, though: you should pair it with an MC cartridge whose output exceeds 0.6 mV. A switch lets you disable this section to use an external phono input.

What drive and speeds does it offer?

The drive is borrowed from the maker's professional turntables: a direct-coupled AC motor, so no belt. The non-magnetic die-cast aluminium platter is damped by a thick rubber mat. The turntable plays 33, 45 and 78 rpm records.

Can I digitise my records with this turntable?

Yes. The AT-LP5X has a USB output to digitise your records onto a computer. An Audacity software installation CD comes with the turntable. The package also includes the mains cable, phono cable, a USB cable, a dust cover and an aluminium 45 rpm adapter. Every turntable is assembled, aligned and tested in the workshop before shipping.

Can the cartridge and cable be upgraded?

Yes. The S-shaped arm ships with an AT-HS6 headshell fitted with an AT-VM95E cartridge, but fitting a higher-end cartridge brings surprising results, especially in finesse and nuance. The phono cable can also be changed, provided you do not use the turntable's internal preamplifier.