In one of my recent articles, I wrote about a few turntables that I believe deliver a superb sound without breaking the bank. Among them is the Audio-Technica AT-LP60X, an evolution of the iconic AT-LP60, which undoubtedly has been the first turntable of many modern audiophiles.
I love when high-quality gear is also affordable, so in this review, I want to talk to you about this great turntable and how it can upgrade your listening experience.
About the author
- fully automatic
- belt-drive
- 33, 45 RPM
- built-in phono preamp
Final verdict on the AT-LP60X
There’s so much to love about the AT-LP60X! First of all, it’s a fully automated turntable, meaning that by pressing a button, the tonearm will automatically lower onto the record and return to position when playback is over. This a great solution for beginner audiophiles who are looking for a plug-and-play device.
The renowned smooth performance of this turntable is enhanced by the belt-drive system, which prevents vibrations and interference from interacting with the platter. Finally, the built-in phono preamp further simplifies the setup process, giving music enthusiasts a turntable that performs magnificently, costs little, and is ready to bring your collection to life.
The only flaw of this entry-level turntable is the plastiky feel of its components: other turntables within the same price range (which I’ll discuss below) offer a more robust and long-lasting design.
What I like
- Great sound quality for the price.
- Fully automated, so perfect for beginners.
- This series is a household name in the world of audio reproduction.
What I don’t like
- Feels plastiky.
- For USB output or Bluetooth connectivity, you’ll need to buy more expensive versions.
Contents
Use these jump links to navigate to the desired section of the review.
Build and design
Overall, the AT-LP60X is not a particularly good-looking turntable, so if you need an elegant device to refine your listening room, you might want to look elsewhere. The plastic chassis, while undoubtedly built to last, feels cheap when compared with similarly-priced turntables like the excellent Sony PS-LX310BT. This is my only complaint on this otherwise excellent entry-level turntable.
At first glance, the AT-LP60X features a minimal and compact design, typical of modern turntables that tend to be low profile and unassuming. However, like its predecessor, the AT-LP60X is durable, with good-quality plastic chassis and components designed to deliver stability and durability.
The Audio-Technica Dual Magnet phono cartridge is a flagship when it comes to high-quality components and offers transparent audio quality and smooth reproduction.
Compatibility
A great feature of the Audio-Technica AT-LP60X is its endless compatibility, ideal for beginner audiophiles worried they might get the wrong preamp or bookshelf speakers for their system. Plus, the turntable is available in different versions that further expand its connectivity.
If you’re looking for a turntable with Bluetooth connectivity, make sure you check out the AT-LP60XBT, the version that comes with Bluetooth functionality and allows you to connect it with any device wirelessly.
Another excellent version is the AT-LP60XUSB, which comes with a USB output, and finally, the AT-LP60XHP is the model with a built-in headphone output. While all these models are more expensive than the standard AT-LP60X, these options are still quite affordable and definitely worth the investment.
If you’re looking for an amplifier and bookshelf speakers to match the AT-LP60X, try pairing it with a Yamaha A-S301 and the Sony SS-CS5 speakers. This is a budget-friendly solution that’ll give you a warm and immersive sonic experience.
If you’re looking for more options, check out my recent articles on the best integrated amplifiers under $500 or the best budget bookshelf speakers.
Sound quality
In the world of entry-level turntables, I don’t think you can get a sound quality as clear and immersive as the one offered by the AT-LP60X. Yes, you can spend five times more and get the exceptional Rega Planar 2, but we’re talking about a completely different league here.
The sound imaging feels accurate and detailed, with a neutral reproduction that’ll please new generations of analog listeners. The sound texture feels enveloping, with rich bass frequencies that enrich the soundstage and make the listening experience more engaging.
More expensive gear will enhance the qualities of the AT-LP60X, so should you wish to upgrade your amp or bookshelf speakers, I’m confident this turntable will stand the test of time and satisfy your refined taste for a long time.
Compared to other turntables
The Audio-Technica AT-LP60X is one of my best beginner turntables and an overall great option for audiophiles on a budget. But here’re a few others that I like.
Audio-Technica AT-LP60X vs AT-LP3
A bit more expensive than the AT-LP60X, the AT-LP3 is another exceptional option for the beginner audiophile, which focuses on simplicity of use and excellent sonic performance. Both turntables offer a soundstage above their price tag, with the AT-LP3 offering a slightly more detailed soundstage and more character.
Personally, between the two, I’d go for the AT-LP3. However, the AT-LP60X costs roughly $100 less, and at the price range of the AT-LP3, competition is tough. So it all comes down to budget.
Audio-Technica AT-LP60X vs Fluance RT81
While in terms of sound, the two offer a similar high-quality experience, the built quality and design of the Fluance RT81 make it the undisputed winner here. The high-mass MDF wood plinth of the RT81 looks and feels extremely solid, avoiding vibrations and giving a timeless feel to your audio system.
Read the full Fluance RT81 review
Audio-Technica AT-LP60X vs Sony PS-LX310BT
The PS-LX310BT is as user-friendly as the AT-LP60X but comes with Bluetooth connectivity and a more enveloping sound that makes it a better option if you can spend a bit more on your first hi-fi system. While neither offers the sound imaging of more expensive gear, they deliver an enjoyable and effortless listening experience.
Personally, I’m more attracted by the low-profile design of the Sony, reminiscent of the Rega and Pro-Ject turntables aesthetics. However, both options deliver excellent performance for the price, so whichever you choose, you won’t be disappointed.
Who is the Audio-Technica AT-LP60X best suited for?
Ultimately, the AT-LP60X is a fantastic option for audiophiles on a budget who still want to get an immersive sound out of their audio system.
This turntable offers excellent sonic transparency and solid performance, and it’s built to last, providing music enthusiasts with smooth and intuitive functionalities that greatly simplify the listening process.
Buy Audio-Technica AT-LP60X at: Amazon
For all AT3600L cartridge I found a good upgrade without breaking the bank: LP Gear ATN-3600DLXVL ATN3600DLXVL stylus
by the time I got it was $90, now is a bit more, but is shibata like stylus, probably the best one can get for a AT3600L upgrade. If you get it and test it, please, let me know, I’ve been looking for pro comments on this stylus, but imo, it does up the quality by a lot compared with the conical AT3600L stylus.
Hi Ludwig, and thanks for your comment! I’d say it’s a considerable upgrade. Smoother sound texture, better tonal presentation. Even at $100 it’s a good buy.
This is a cheap and basic turntable. It has no upgradeable features. No anti skating or counterweight control. It’s cheaply made. Barely a step up from a Crosley all in one. If you really want to start playing vinyl, get something better or look for good used equipment. This is no way to get into vinyl.
I just received and set up my AT-LP60X-AT turntable and the toner arm functions well except it does not lower it onto the LP