If you're diving into the world of vinyl, you might feel overwhelmed by all the options out there. The Audio-Technica AT-LP120BK-USB stands out as a solid choice, but is it really the right turntable for you?
With features that cater to both beginners and audiophiles, it promises great sound and versatility. Curious to see if it lives up to the hype? Read on for the full review!
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Darkside Vinyl's Verdict:
The Audio-Technica AT-LP120BK-USB is a solid choice for vinyl lovers. We enjoyed its direct drive feature and ease of use. It's reliable and delivers great sound quality, making it a fun addition to any setup.
Our Best Deal: $399.00 from Amazon
PROS
- Professional features
- USB connectivity
- Sturdy build
CONS
- Pricey
- Heavy
- No built-in speakers
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Audio-Technica AT-LP120BK-USB | Waldo Flynn's Opinion
The Audio-Technica AT-LP120BK-USB has been a game changer for my vinyl listening experience, offering exceptional sound quality and versatility that truly enhances my love for music.
Audio-Technica AT-LP120BK-USB | Amazon's Opinion
Amazon customers widely agree that the Audio-Technica AT-LP120BK-USB offers exceptional sound quality and versatility, making it a must-have for vinyl enthusiasts.
Audio-Technica AT-LP120BK-USB | Reddit's Opinion
Reddit users generally agree that the Audio-Technica AT-LP120BK-USB offers excellent sound quality and value for both beginners and vinyl enthusiasts alike.
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Audio-Technica AT-LP120BK-USB Overview
The Audio-Technica AT-LP120BK-USB is a solid choice for anyone looking to dive into vinyl. Its direct drive system gives you great speed stability and makes it perfect for DJing or just enjoying your favorite records at home.
We found the build quality to be impressive. It's sturdy and feels professional. The USB output is a nice touch for those wanting to digitize their vinyl collection. Overall, it’s a fantastic turntable that balances quality and functionality.
Design and Build Quality
The Audio-Technica AT-LP120BK-USB boasts a solid and robust design. Its metal chassis gives it a professional vibe, which is great for both home use and live performances. You can feel the quality when you interact with it, and it’s definitely built to last.
One of my favorite aspects is the sleek black finish that fits well with any decor. The controls are easy to reach and intuitive, making it user-friendly for both beginners and seasoned vinyl enthusiasts. The adjustable feet also help in stabilizing the turntable, which is crucial for minimizing vibrations.
Overall, the design strikes a balance between style and functionality. It doesn’t just look good; it performs well, making it a solid choice among turntables on the market.
Direct Drive System
The direct drive system of the AT-LP120BK-USB is a standout feature. Unlike belt-driven models, this design provides faster start-up times and consistent speeds. This is particularly noticeable when you’re switching between tracks or genres.
When testing it, I felt the responsiveness was a game-changer. You can enjoy those intricate beats without worrying about speed inconsistencies. For DJs or anyone into mixing, this feature is invaluable.
Plus, the direct drive allows for reverse play, which adds a fun twist to your listening experience. Overall, this system caters exceptionally well to both casual listeners and more serious audiophiles.
USB Connectivity
The USB connectivity is a major highlight of the AT-LP120BK-USB. This feature makes it easy to convert your vinyl records into digital formats. I found the setup to be straightforward, allowing me to start converting my favorite albums without a hitch.
This turntable is compatible with most recording software, which is a huge plus. Whether you're an amateur or a pro, you can easily archive your collection or share it with friends. It opens up new avenues for enjoying vinyl while embracing modern technology.
Additionally, the USB output is a fantastic option for those who want to enhance their listening experience. You can connect it to your computer or even a compatible audio interface, making it quite versatile.
Adjustable Tonearm and Cartridge
The adjustable tonearm is a feature that really impressed me. It’s designed to minimize tracking errors, which helps in preserving the sound quality of your records. You can adjust the tracking force to suit different cartridges, giving you flexibility in your setup.
Speaking of cartridges, the AT-LP120BK-USB comes with a decent one pre-installed. However, if you’re looking to upgrade, the adjustable nature of the tonearm allows you to experiment with higher-end options. This means you can tailor your listening experience to your personal taste.
Overall, these features make it easier to achieve that perfect sound. Whether you’re spinning classic rock or jazz, the tonearm setup can significantly impact your listening enjoyment.
Speed Settings and Pitch Control
The turntable offers multiple speed settings, including 33, 45, and 78 RPM. This flexibility means you can play virtually any vinyl record in your collection. It’s a joy to have options, especially for those rare 78s that often get overlooked.
The pitch control feature is another delightful addition. It allows you to fine-tune the speed to your liking, which can be particularly useful for DJs looking to match beats. It adds an extra layer of creativity to your mixing sessions.
During my tests, I appreciated how smooth the transitions were when switching speeds. It’s an important feature that enhances overall usability, especially if you frequently play records of various speeds.
Audio Performance
The audio performance of the AT-LP120BK-USB is impressive. The sound is clear, with a nice balance across the spectrum. You’ll notice a richness in the bass and clarity in the highs, making your vinyl records come alive.
While it doesn’t replace higher-end audiophile models, it certainly holds its own in the mid-range category. The sound is more than adequate for casual listening and can satisfy the more discerning ear as well.
Overall, the audio quality is a major selling point. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just enjoying a quiet evening, this turntable delivers a delightful listening experience that makes it worth considering among turntables under 1000 dollars.
Audio-Technica AT-LP120BK-USB
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4.7
$394.51
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03/24/2025 08:35 pm GMT
Don't think the Audio-Technica AT-LP120BK-USB is right for you?
Check out these alternatives instead.
Pro-Ject Debut PRO B
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4.7
$1,099.00
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03/25/2025 04:15 am GMT
Pro-Ject Debut PRO B
The Pro-Ject Debut PRO B stands out with its advanced features like a carbon-aluminum tonearm and balanced connections. We noticed the sound quality was impressive, especially with the Pick-IT PRO Balanced cartridge.
On the other hand, the Audio-Technica AT-LP120BK-USB is great for those who want a straightforward, professional USB turntable with direct drive. It’s user-friendly and performs well, making it a solid choice for casual listeners and pros alike.
Pro-Ject T1 Evo
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03/25/2025 03:56 am GMT
Pro-Ject T1 Evo
The Pro-Ject T1 Evo is a sleek turntable that offers Bluetooth connectivity, making it easy to play your vinyl wirelessly. It's great for casual listeners who want a simple setup.
On the other hand, the Audio-Technica AT-LP120BK-USB is a solid choice for those looking for a professional-grade experience. Its direct drive system provides reliable performance, perfect for DJs or anyone serious about sound quality.
Pro-Ject T2 SuperPhono
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03/25/2025 03:56 am GMT
Pro-Ject T2
The Pro-Ject T2 is a solid choice for audiophiles just starting out. It comes with a built-in phono preamp and a Sumiko Rainier MM cartridge, which delivers great sound quality.
On the other hand, the Audio-Technica AT-LP120BK-USB is geared more towards professionals. Its direct drive system makes it reliable for DJing and audio recording, plus it has USB capabilities for easy digitizing of vinyl.
Both are great in their own right, but the Pro-Ject leans more towards pure listening enjoyment, while the Audio-Technica offers versatility and performance for various uses.
U-Turn Orbit Special
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U-Turn Orbit Special
The U-Turn Orbit Special offers a sleek design with customizable options, making it a great choice for those who value aesthetics and personalization. Its sound quality is impressive, but it might not have all the features serious DJs look for.
On the other hand, the Audio-Technica AT-LP120BK-USB is a robust turntable with direct drive, perfect for both beginners and pros. It feels solid and provides reliable performance, especially for those who want to digitize their vinyl collection easily.
Rega Planar 1
Get it from Amazon
4.3
$499.99
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03/25/2025 03:48 am GMT
Rega Planar 1
The Rega Planar 1 is a solid entry-level turntable. It delivers great sound quality and is easy to use. However, it lacks some advanced features.
On the other hand, the Audio-Technica AT-LP120BK-USB is more versatile with its direct drive and USB compatibility. It’s perfect for those wanting to digitize their vinyl collection. We found it to be a bit more robust in terms of features and performance.
Rega Planar 1 Plus
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4.5
$775.00
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03/25/2025 03:48 am GMT
Rega Planar 1 Plus
The Rega Planar 1 Plus is a sleek, beginner-friendly turntable with a built-in phono preamp. It has a polished look and delivers a warm sound that many new vinyl enthusiasts will appreciate.
On the other hand, the Audio-Technica AT-LP120BK-USB is a more versatile option, featuring direct drive and USB output. It's aimed at users who want to convert vinyl to digital formats while still providing excellent sound quality.
Both turntables have their strengths, but the AT-LP120BK-USB may appeal more to tech-savvy users looking for flexibility. The Planar 1 Plus, however, stands out for its simplicity and aesthetic charm.
Audio-Technica AT-LP120BK-USB Review 2025 | Final Thoughts
Overall, the Audio-Technica AT-LP120BK-USB is a fantastic turntable. It delivers great sound quality and the USB feature is super handy for digitizing my vinyl collection. While it has a few minor quirks, it's definitely a solid choice for both beginners and seasoned audiophiles.
Audio-Technica AT-LP120BK-USB
Get it from Amazon
4.7
$394.51
Audio-Technica AT-LP120BK-USB - Professional USB turntable with direct drive.
Pros:
- Professional features
- USB connectivity
- Sturdy build
Cons:
- Pricey
- Heavy
- No built-in speakers
I earn a commission if you click this link and make a purchase at no additional cost to you.
03/24/2025 08:35 pm GMT
Audio-Technica AT-LP120BK-USB Review 2025 | FAQs
What is the Audio-Technica AT-LP120BK-USB?
The Audio-Technica AT-LP120BK-USB is a professional USB turntable designed for high-quality audio and direct drive performance.
Does the AT-LP120BK-USB have built-in speakers?
No, the AT-LP120BK-USB does not have built-in speakers; it requires external speakers for audio output.
Can I connect the turntable to my computer?
Yes, it features a USB output, allowing you to connect it to a computer for digitizing vinyl records.
What type of drive does the AT-LP120BK-USB use?
The turntable uses a direct-drive system, providing quick start-up times and consistent playback speed.
Is the AT-LP120BK-USB suitable for beginners?
Yes, it is user-friendly and offers features that appeal to both beginners and experienced audiophiles.
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