Audio-Technica AT-LP60X Review

I prepared this Audio-Technica AT-LP60X review because I am always interested in budget models of advanced brands. This model is also interesting because it is an upgraded version of the previous AT-LP60. And I like to see what improvements have been made, especially since the manufacturer has yet to raise the price.

The exterior is pleasantly surprising. Sure, the body is plastic, but the record player doesn’t look cheap. Instead, it looks more like the machinery of the 90s. For those who like variety in the design, a front panel is available in four colors: Black, Red, Brown, and Gun Metal. It also has the Start, Stop, and Speed Shift buttons, just like the original LP60. I find this handy.

The turntable weighs only 5.6 pounds. That is an innovation over its predecessor, which had the power supply built-in, but now it’s outboard. And I’m not sure for the better because, unfortunately, it won’t give you stability, but it makes it portable! Still, I would recommend a heavier case.

On the top panel, everything is pretty expected. The cast aluminum disc weighs down the deck, but not enough, in my opinion. The straight, simple tonearm is quite light and sits comfortably effortlessly in the holder. The manufacturer claims the redesigned tonearm base and headstock provide tracking and resonance reduction, but you can only test that with time. Plus, it has a handy tongue for easy hand control, something its predecessor didn’t have.

To me, the dust cover included in the kit is an essential attribute of any turntable because dust and dirt for records are just death. So, in the end, everything is simple but quite elegant.

As for the specifications of the LP60X, I’d say everything here is pretty standard. First of all, it is fully automatic, including the tonearm return. The speed change from 33-1/3 to 45 rpm is also done with a button.

Despite the lightness and instability of the cabinet, the manufacturer ensured the reduction of extraneous noise by a servo-controlled DC motor and a remote AC/DC adapter.

Typical for devices in this price range, the AT-LP60X turntable has a built-in phono stage. Unfortunately, its quality leaves much to be desired, but the option to switch PHONO/LINE (the button is located on the back panel) allows you to buy an external quality phono stage if you wish. So, at least in the beginning, no extra cost is needed!

I would point out that important built-in parts, including the cartridge, can be replaced. Or rather not the Dual Magnet cartridge itself, but its ATN3600L diamond stylus. For me, this is a big plus. After all, having first invested in a budget player, you can upgrade it over time.

Another nice difference from the LP60 is the Y-cable with a 3.5mm mini-jack on one side and standard RCA on the other. In the original, it was “stitched in”. So this part can also be replaced if it breaks.

As you have already understood, this is not an audiophile device. The AT-LP60X will not impress your imagination with its unforgettable sound in its initial configuration. Though, to be fair, I’d say it sounds pretty normal. The turntable isn’t noisy, hoarse, or tinkling in the upper frequencies. The detailing isn’t the sharpest, but it didn’t leave me feeling blurry. And if you place the deck on as flat a surface as possible, vibrations are not noticeable. The overall impression is pleasant, and the tonal range is even quite wide.

But it is not without reason that I accentuated the fact that the manufacturer tried to make almost all parts replaceable. This is what sets the LP60X apart from other models of its rank. After all, gradually replacing parts can achieve a much better sound if you can not afford to spend a lot of money at once.