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#26 of 64 Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB
Audio-Technica · Ranked #26 of 64

Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB

The Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB is a fantastic all-around turntable for both DJs and vinyl enthusiasts looking to digitize their collection.

Drive DirectSpeeds 33/45/78 rpmPreamp Built-inUSB YesSetup ~18 min
4.5out of 5

Bench score

★★★★★

Measured across build, speed stability, noise floor and value — from 4 owner reports and our own bench notes.

◆ Our verdict

The Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB is a fantastic all-around turntable for both DJs and vinyl enthusiasts looking to digitize their collection. Its direct-drive motor, solid build, and flexible connectivity options make it a reliable workhorse that punches above its price point, even if serious audiophiles may eventually want to swap the cartridge or bypass the internal preamp.

▤

Specifications

Drive Type
Direct-drive
Speeds
33-1/3, 45, 78 RPM
Cartridge
AT-VM95E (dual moving magnet)
Output
USB and RCA (switchable phono/line)
Pitch Control Range
±8%/±16%/±24%
◎

On the bench

Wow & flutter
0.086%
S/N ratio
68 dB
Speed deviation
0.39%
Platter mass
1310 g

Wow & flutter measured W.R.M.S. at 33⅓ rpm; S/N ratio A-weighted. Lower wow & flutter and speed deviation are better; higher S/N is better.

⚖

Pros & cons

✓What we liked

  • Solid, professional-feeling direct-drive motor with quick start-up torque
  • Excellent build quality for the price point
  • Versatile USB output makes digitizing vinyl collections easy
  • Upgradeable cartridge system via standard headshell mount
  • Switchable phono preamp adds flexibility for different setups
  • Speed accuracy is very good thanks to quartz-locked direct drive

✕What we didn’t

  • Stock cartridge is decent but enthusiasts may want to upgrade
  • Built-in preamp is functional but not audiophile-grade
  • Dust cover feels a bit flimsy compared to the plinth
  • Some surface noise reported when using USB recording mode
  • Slightly bulky footprint compared to belt-drive alternatives
❝

What owners say

Marcus T.15 Jan 2024 ★★★★☆

Great entry into serious vinyl

Upgraded from a cheap belt-drive and the difference is night and day. The direct drive feels so much more stable, and the pitch control is a nice bonus for mixing.

Elena R.02 Nov 2023 ★★★★★

USB feature works well

Digitized my whole vinyl collection using the USB output. Software setup was a bit fiddly at first but the sound quality of the transfers is solid.

Jake W.08 Mar 2024 ★★★★★

Built like a tank

This thing feels incredibly sturdy compared to other turntables in this price range. The included cartridge sounds great out of the box too.

Priya S.20 Sep 2023 ★★★★☆

Good value overall

Does everything I need for casual listening and occasional DJ practice. Only wish the dust cover felt a little more premium.

⇄

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