Audio-Technica Takes Vinyl Hi-Fi to the Next Level With Its New Audiophile Turntable
It takes design cues from the brand's classic turntables from the 1960s and '70s.
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Audio-Technica is well-known for its entry-level direct-drive turntables that have the brand's signature black-and-silver aesthetic, boast DJ-focused features, and typically cost between $200 and $500.
However, over the past year or so, the renowned Japanese hi-fi brand has made a concerted push to serve the more audiophile crowd, releasing new flagship direct-drive and belt-drive turntables in the AT-LP8X ($1,000) and AT-LPA2 ($2,000) , respectively, and unveiling its $10,000 Hotaru floating turntable .
Its newest turntable, the AT-LP7X , can be considered in that higher echelon of category, as well.
Audio-Technica AT-LP7X
Fully manual, belt-drive
The AT-LP7X is a fully manual belt-drive turntable with a minimalist design that costs $999 — it's sort of like a belt-drive alternative to the brand's direct-drive AT-LP8X, which also costs roughly $1,000.
Both turntables feature a matte-black finish, premium materials and a J-shaped aluminum tonearm that is inspired by Audio-Technica's classic turntables from the 1960s and '70s.
Additionally, the turntable features a 40mm MDF plinth and a 20mm acrylic platter, each of which is designed to dampen resonances and vibrations, and ensure accurate vinyl playback.
Built-in phono preamplifier
However, the AT-LP7X is a bit different because Audio-Technica gave it a built-in phono preamplifier that is compatible with both MM and MC cartridges. This means you can hook a turntable directly to a pair of powered or active speakers, for example.
The built-in phono preamplifier is switchable — you can turn it off — in case you want to use a different phono preamplifier, such as an external one, or if you have an amplifier that's integrated with one.
The AT-LP7X comes pre-mounted with Audio-Technica's AT-VM95E cartridge, but it's also compatible with any of the brand's higher-end VM95 Series, in case you decide to upgrade the cartridge down the road.
The AT-LP7X features electronic speed control and is capable of playing 33â…“ and 45 RPM records.
According to the brand, the AT-LP7X is "designed for vinyl enthusiasts who value precision engineering and minimalistic, timeless design."
Price and availability
The Audio-Technica AT-LP7X comes in one finish, matte black, and costs $999.
It's now available on the company's website.
Audio-Technica AT-LP7X
About the Author: Tucker Bowe has been on Gear Patrol's editorial team since 2014. With a passion for consumer tech and hi-fi, he tracks everything from headphones and turntables to smartphones and wearables. If it lights up or makes noise, he probably covers it.
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