The AT-LP120XBT-USB record player expands the possibilities for enjoying vinyl records. [COOL GADGETS Vol. 68]

The high quality of the texture is astounding

In fact, vinyl records are becoming increasingly popular. They offer a smooth sound, large-format jacket art, and the thrill of dropping the needle—all of which are appealing to people in their 30s and beyond, and are appealing in ways that CD playback and digital distribution lack. Audio-Technica’s AT-LP120XBT-USB lets even beginners easily enjoy vinyl culture.

Some people may be thinking, “But aren’t records noisy?” It’s true that there is some popping noise caused by static electricity and mold. However, there is far less noise than you might imagine. In fact, the sound is actually clearer. One reason for this is the improved performance of record styluses. Compared to the past, the material used for records has improved, and the processing precision of styluses and the quality of artificial diamonds have also improved. Scratch noise caused by friction has been greatly reduced, and you’ll be surprised at how much cleaner the sound is than you’d expect!

The difference in sound can only be expressed with the somewhat vague notion of “comfortable to the ears,” but it is mellower than digital sources, less tiring to listen to for long periods of time, and has a warmth. In fact, the fact that many people feel that “records deliver music to the ears more comfortably than CDs” has led to a recent trend of returning to analog records. Yes, it’s not just nostalgic or emotional, but the deep sound that only analog can provide is being reevaluated.

Enjoy Bluetooth wireless connection

As in the analog world, there is no limit to the price. If you start to get picky, prices can reach several million yen, but this model offers an excellent balance between sound quality and price. The unit that converts the vibration of the needle into an electrical signal is called a cartridge, and the standard VM-type cartridge “AT-VM95E” is an entry-level model, but its elliptical needle picks up even the most delicate sounds.

Because the basic performance is solid, even higher sound quality can be achieved by changing the stylus. Stylus types called “line contact” such as Shibata stylus are also available, so if you change to one of these when replacing the stylus, you can enjoy extremely clear sound with little distortion. Changing the stylus can also greatly improve the resolution and expressiveness of the sound. Start your record debut with the included stylus, and once you’ve become accustomed to it, upgrade to enjoy the depth of analog playback.

In addition to analog playback, this unit also offers a variety of modern features. It supports Bluetooth transmission, so you can easily play records on wireless headphones or speakers. And by connecting it to a PC via USB, you can record and save the record sound as high-resolution audio data. Enjoy your favorite songs in analog format, then digitize them and take them with you.

Also compatible with 78 rpm records

Recently, there has been an increase in the number of classic albums being reissued on new vinyl. Used records are easy to find online and at specialty stores, and classic albums from the 70s and 80s are surprisingly affordable. With this unit, you can enjoy both the playback and digitization of those records to your heart’s content. Experience your favorite music in analog form and save the entire sound as digital data – we hope you enjoy the soft, expansive sound of analog along with this luxurious functionality.

REPORT/Masakazu HONDA

PHOTO/Kunihisa KOBAYASHI

MAGAZINE/ GENROQ May 2025 issue

PRICE

Open price

(official online store only)

evaluation

The basic performance is outstanding for an analog entry-level device. The included cartridge also has solid basic performance, with excellent mid-range texture. By replacing the stylus, you can achieve even higher resolution and clearer sound quality.

Cost performance: 5

Sound quality: 4

Functionality: 4

Expandability: 4

Ease of use: 3

[Inquiries]

Audio-Technica

TEL 0120-773-417

https://www.audio-technica.co.jp/support

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