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Audio-Technica AT-LP5X
Building on Audio-Technica’s analog heritage and over 50 years of Japanese audio design, the AT-LP5X features upgraded technology while keeping the contemporary style and acclaimed performance of its predecessor, the AT-LP5.
Building on Audio-Technica’s analog heritage and over 50 years of Japanese audio design, the AT-LP5X features upgraded technology while keeping the contemporary style and acclaimed performance of its predecessor, the AT-LP5.
The LP5X retains the J-shaped tonearm, a design inspired by the classic Audio-Technica models of the 1960s and ’70s, and 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 AT-LP5X turntable has been designed to limit low-frequency acoustical feedback. Its precision-machined, die-cast aluminum 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 AT-LP5x 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 selection of MM/MC cartridges allow 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.
Turntable with High-Fidelity Heritage
Born of Audio-Technica’s rich analog heritage, the AT-LP5X incorporates a J-shaped tonearm that takes its inspiration from the classic A-T models of the 1960s and ’70s.
Latest Technology, Contemporary Style
This next-generation LP5 turntable pushes the acclaimed performance of its predecessor to new heights, with upgraded features like the versatile AT-VM95E cartridge and a preamp gain switch to accommodate both moving magnet and moving coil cartridges.
Delivering Analog Excellence for Over 55 Years
We got our start in Tokyo in 1962, designing and manufacturing high-performance phono cartridges. That half-century’s worth of analog expertise goes into every turntable we produce, ensuring you get the best listening experience from your vinyl.
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Professional Reviews 89/100
Nicely Roasted
Sound Quality
90/100
Build Quality
84/100
Features Usability
90/100
Value for Money
91/100
The AT-LP5X delivers pitch-stable, composed vinyl playback with a quiet direct-drive motor, smooth J-shaped arm, and a refined VM95E cartridge. Hi-Fi Choice and What Hi-Fi? both praise its easy setup, strong dynamics, and precise imaging, while its onboard phono stage and USB output add welcome flexibility for modern listeners.
What Reviewers Are Saying
Pros
Exceptionally easy to set up and use, with a logical manual build and quick assembly.
Produces a calm, organized sound with strong dynamics, precise imaging, and high detail.
Pitch stability is excellent, with a quiet direct-drive motor and low noise floor.
The onboard phono stage and USB output add useful flexibility, and the cartridge is easy to upgrade.
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Cons
The plastic plinth feels a little hollow when tapped, so the build is solid rather than premium.
It faces very strong competition at this price level.
SOUND QUALITY PERFORMANCE 90/100
Reviewers consistently describe a composed, detailed, and engaging sound. They praise its clean, clear presentation, strong dynamics, precise imaging, and the way it stays smooth and refined even on demanding music and less-than-perfect pressings.
Overall Sound
91/100
The LP5X is described as lively yet controlled, with good detail, strong dynamics, and a presentation that makes listeners focus on the music rather than the deck. Hi-Fi Choice highlights realistic voices and instruments, while What Hi-Fi calls it a surefooted, robust, class-leading presentation with high resolution and composure.
Speed Stability
92/100
Reviewer language is strongly positive here, with the deck described as impressively pitch-stable and free of wavering on sustained piano. What Hi-Fi also notes that the quartz-locked direct drive motor spins up quickly and runs quietly, supporting the sense of rhythmic confidence.
Tonearm Performance
87/100
The included J-shaped arm earns good marks for smooth bearings and a crisp, well-judged feel. Reviews do not go deeply into advanced adjustment or arm refinement, but the available evidence points to competent tracking and a sensible, well-matched arm for the deck.
Noise Isolation
88/100
The noise floor is described as usefully low, and the direct-drive motor is said to be quiet. Reviewers do not report intrusive hum or vibration problems, and the LP5X is presented as a calm, unflustered platform even when the music gets dense.
Assessments of Build Quality, Usability, and Overall Propositions.
Build Quality
84/100
Reviewers say the deck feels substantial and is easy to set up, with a logical assembly process and sensible execution. The main reservation is the plastic plinth, which What Hi-Fi says can sound a little hollow when tapped, so the overall impression is solid rather than luxurious.
Features Usability
90/100
This is a very user-friendly deck: reviewers praise the easy setup, quartz-locked direct drive, quick speed changes, and the good onboard phono stage. The included cartridge, headshell, USB output, and overall plug-and-play friendliness make it especially appealing for straightforward ownership.
Value for Money
91/100
Reviewers are clearly positive about the asking price, with Hi-Fi Choice saying there is very little wrong with it at £350 and that it deserves a serious shortlist spot. What Hi-Fi also frames it as a well-executed design that sounds great for the money, with enough quality and features to justify its position.
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Authorized dealers for Audio-Technica AT-LP5X
- The Audio Association — in-store — Anaheim, California, United States (website)
- A1 Futureshop — online and in-store — North Rocks, New South Wales, Australia (website)
- Absolute Audio - Canada — in-store — Calgary, Alberta, Canada (website)
- Abt Electronics — online and in-store — Glenview, Illinois, United States (website)
- Accesory Jack — in-store — New Territories, Hong Kong (website)
- Acclaim Sound and Light — in-store — North Bay, Ontario, Canada (website)
- Acoustic Sounds — online and in-store — Salina, Kansas, United States (website)
- Acoustic Technologies — online and in-store — Montréal, Québec, Canada (website)
- Acton Gate Audio — online and in-store — Cymru, United Kingdom (website)
- Adorama — in-store — New York, New York, United States (website)
and 227 more verified dealers