Affordable audiophile turntables are popping everywhere in 2021, but we’re still holding the line at $450 as the place to start. The folks at Audio-Technica have a different attitude in regard to pricing and have introduced the new Audio-Technica AT-LP60XBT-USB fully automatic belt drive turntable for $179 USD.
Hmmm…
We love Audio-Technica phono cartridges because they offer a lot of performance at a very affordable price; there are at least 4 Audio-Technica carts below $300 that we recommend without hesitation.
The Audio Technica AT-LP60XBT-USB supports the Bluetooth aptX codec, and offers USB and standard analog connectivity. It also includes an Audio-Technica cartridge and an internal phono preamp. Not a bad deal for $175 — especially when you can spend that much on an entry-level U-Turn Orbit and still require a phono preamp.
Everything about this table screams entry-level, but there a few features that might intrigue someone with a budget below $200.
The table requires zero set-up. The cartridge features the user replaceable ATN3600L stylus, and you can stream from the AT-LP60XBT-USB directly to Bluetooth headphones or loudspeakers. The USB output means that you can connect the table directly to your computer and create digital files of your records.
The power supply of the Audio-Technica AT-LP60XBT-USB is an external box (interesting at the price point), and the platter is manufactured from die-cast aluminium; something you never see at this price.
How does it sound? We’re going to find out.
2025 Update: Pricing has increased. Now $349 at Amazon or Crutchfield.
For more information: audio-technica.com
