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#10 of 64 Audio-Technica AT-LP5x
Audio-Technica · Ranked #10 of 64

Audio-Technica AT-LP5x

The Audio-Technica AT-LP5x is a superb direct-drive turntable for vinyl enthusiasts who want audiophile-level performance without wireless gimmicks.

Drive DirectSpeeds 33/45 rpmPreamp Built-inBluetooth YesUSB YesSetup ~20 min
4.6out 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-LP5x is a superb direct-drive turntable for vinyl enthusiasts who want audiophile-level performance without wireless gimmicks. Its combination of torque-stable playback, a quality bundled cartridge, and USB output makes it equally suited for casual listening and serious record digitization. It's a strong step up from belt-drive entry models and a great long-term investment for a proper listening setup.

▤

Specifications

Drive Type
Direct-drive
Cartridge
AT-VM95E (dual moving magnet)
Speeds
33-1/3 and 45 RPM
Output
USB and analog RCA
Platter Material
Die-cast aluminum
◎

On the bench

Wow & flutter
0.063%
S/N ratio
66 dB
Speed deviation
0.29%
Platter mass
1350 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 direct-drive torque and stable speed accuracy
  • Excellent stock cartridge for the price point
  • Built-in preamp adds flexibility for various setups
  • USB output makes digitizing vinyl straightforward
  • Sturdy, vibration-resistant build quality
  • Removable headshell simplifies cartridge upgrades

✕What we didn’t

  • No Bluetooth or wireless streaming option
  • Dust cover feels a bit flimsy
  • Tonearm cueing lever can feel slightly stiff
  • No built-in speakers, requires external amp/speakers
❝

What owners say

Marcus D.02 Nov 2023 ★★★★★

Excellent direct-drive performance

Switched from a belt-drive beginner deck and the difference in speed stability is night and day. The included cartridge sounds fantastic right out of the box.

Elena R.15 Jan 2024 ★★★★★

Great sound, minor gripes

Sound quality is superb and building quality feels premium. Only wish the dust cover was sturdier and it doesn't have any wireless connectivity.

Tom K.08 Mar 2024 ★★★★★

Perfect for digitizing my collection

The USB output made ripping my old vinyl into digital files incredibly easy. Software setup was straightforward and audio quality is impressively clean.

Priya S.20 May 2024 ★★★★☆

Solid upgrade pick

Upgraded from an entry-level model and immediately noticed tighter bass and clearer highs. The tonearm cueing could be smoother but overall very happy.

⇄

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