Audio Technica AT-LP5x Direct Drive Turntable
The Audio Technica AT-LP5x Direct Drive Turntable is a precision-engineered direct drive turntable designed for vinyl enthusiasts who want accuracy, reliability, and audiophile-grade sound in a modern, minimalist design. Built around a high-torque, low-noise DC motor, the AT-LP5x delivers rock-solid speed stability for an exceptionally clean and detailed listening experience.
Building on Audio-Technica’s analogue heritage and over 50 years of Japanese audio design, the Audio Technica AT-LP5x Direct Drive Turntable features upgraded technology while keeping its predecessor’s contemporary style and acclaimed performance, the AT-LP5.
The Audio Technica AT-LP5x Direct Drive Turntable retains the J-shaped tonearm, a design inspired by the classic Audio-Technica models of the 1960s and ’70s. It features a metallic gimbal suspension system and precision bearings to mitigate tracking errors. The tonearm also includes an adjustable counterweight and anti-skate control and comes fitted with a lightweight (9.3g) AT-HS6 headshell and the black AT-VM95E Dual Moving Magnet stereo cartridge.
Constructed of anti-vibration damping materials with heavy-mass metal chassis inserts, the Audio Technica AT-LP5x Direct Drive Turntable has been designed to limit low-frequency acoustical feedback. Its precision-machined, die-cast aluminium platter is powered by a direct-drive, low-noise motor, ensuring stable, on-axis rotation at 33-1/3, 45 and 78 RPM. A 5 mm thick rubber-damping mat, which isolates from low-frequency feedback while providing a highly stable surface for all LP formats, tops the platter.
The Audio Technica AT-LP5x Direct Drive Turntable features a built-in switchable MM/MC phono/line preamp that enables it to connect directly to a computer, home stereo, powered speakers and other components that have no dedicated turntable input. The MM/MC cartridges’ selection allows for an easy upgrade to a moving coil with additional equipment. The turntable is also equipped with a USB output for direct connection to a computer.
Key features of the Audio Technica AT-LP5x Direct Drive Turntable
- Direct-drive, low-noise motor
- Fully manual operation with three speeds: 33-1/3, 45 and 78 RPM
- AT-VM95E Dual Moving Magnet stereo cartridge (black) with replaceable stylus
- Lightweight AT-HS6 headshell
- J-shaped tonearm, modelled after original Audio-Technica designs from the 1960s and ’70s, are engineered to minimize tracking errors
- Switchable MM/MC built-in pre-amplifier and line enables connection to components with or without a dedicated phono input
- Anti-resonance, die-cast aluminium platter
- Heavy rubber damping mat for improved low-frequency reproduction
- AC adapter handles AC/DC conversion outside of the chassis, reducing noise in the signal chain
- Elegant matte black finish
- Includes dual RCA (male) to dual RCA (male) stereo cable, 45 RPM adapter, USB cable
- Included dust cover and mounting hardware
Specification of the Audio Technica AT-LP5x Direct Drive Turntable
| Drive Method | Direct Drive |
| Type | 3-speed, fully manual operation |
| Motor | DC motor |
| Speeds | 33-1/3 RPM, 45 RPM, 78 RPM |
| Turntable Platter | Die-cast aluminum |
| Starting Torque | >1.0 kgf.cm |
| Braking System | Electronic brake |
| Wow and Flutter | <0.2% WRMS (33 RPM) at 3 KHz |
| Signal-to-Noise Ratio | >50 dB |
| Output Level | PHONO: 4.0 mV nominal at 1 kHz, 5 cm/sec LINE 250 mV nominal at 1 kHz, 5 cm/sec |
| Phono Pre-Amp Gain | 36 dB nominal, RIAA equalized MC: 56dB nominal, RIAA equalized |
| USB Function | A/D, – 16 bit 44.1 kHz or 48 kHz USB selectable; Computer interface – USB 2.0 compliant Windows 7 or above, MAC OS X or above |
| Power Supply Requirements | 100-240V AC, 50/60 Hz |
| Power Consumption | 3 W |
| Dimensions | 450.0 mm (17.72″) W x 352.0 mm (13.86″)D x 157.0 mm (6.18″)H |
| Weight | 7.3 kg (16.1 lbs.) |
| Accessories Included | AT-VM95E Dual Moving Magnet stereo cartridge (black) with replaceable stylus; AT-HS6 lightweight headshell; AC adapter ; dual RCA (male) to dual RCA (male) stereo cable; 45 RPM adapter; USB cable; dust cover with hinges. |
jagat Singh –
After using the Audio Technica AT-LP5x Direct Drive Turntable for several months, I can confidently say it’s been an excellent addition to my vinyl setup. The direct-drive motor works flawlessly, keeping the speed consistent and ensuring smooth playback. I’ve noticed a real difference in sound quality compared to my old belt-driven turntable. The audio is crisp, detailed, and captures that warm vinyl sound I love.