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One of Audio-Technica’s Best Affordable Turntables Just Got Even Cooler

Just getting started on your vinyl journey?

Audio-Technica turntableAudio-Technica
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By Tucker Bowe

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Audio-Technica’s AT-LP60X is the company’s most entry-level turntable. Released in 2019, it’s positioned as an affordable option for those who want to get into vinyl.

To date, the Japanese audio manufacturer has offered the AT-LP60X in three different finishes: black, brown or gun metal. Now, as part of April 18th’s National Record Store Day celebrations, it’s introducing a way more vibrant version.

Purple Audio-Technica turntable with black platter and tonearm on a white background.
Previously, the AT-LP60X was only offered in black, brown or gun metal finishes.
Audio-Technica

Fully automatic, belt-drive

That’s right. As part of those festivities, Audio-Technica has introduced a new exclusive purple colorway of the AT-LP60X. It’s bright. Aside from the new look, the AT-LP60X-PL (the “PL” stands for purple) is the same entry-level, belt-drive turntable as before.

The main thing with the AT-LP60X-PL is that it’s fully automatic. This means that after setting the record and pressing play, the turntable handles the rest. The tonearm automatically lifts and places the stylus. When the record is over, the tonearm returns to its perch.

The advantage of an automatic turntable is that it makes vinyl listening easy. The downside? It takes away a little of the analog fun because you don’t have to pay as close attention to the record you’re playing. (This is a big reason why most audiophiles choose manual turntables.)

Purple turntable with black tonearm and cartridge on a white background.
The turntable comes with an AT-3600L moving magnet cartridge, which sells for about $30.
Audio-Technica
Black Audio-Technica turntable with a vinyl record on a wooden surface next to sketches of people on paper.
Unlike the new purple treatment, the black version of the AT-LP60X can be purchased online.
Audio-Technica

Plug-and-play ready

Like its predecessors, the new-look AT-LP60X-PL is a pretty easy-to-use, “no frills” turntable. It lacks modern features like USB and Bluetooth connections, so it won’t help you digitize your records or stream audio to wireless headphones or speakers.

It does have a built-in phono preamplifier, however, which means you can connect the turntable directly to a set of powered speakers. This phono preamp is switchable, giving you the option to upgrade the setup down the road.

Audio-Technica turntable
The AT-LP60X-PL plays both 33-1/3 and 45 RPM records.
Audio-Technica

Availability and pricing

The last unique thing about the AT-LP60X-PL is … it’s only being sold at independent brick-and-mortar record stores across the US. Audio-Technica says its rationale to that it “gives music fans another great reason to visit and support their local community and shops.”

The AT-LP60X-PL costs $179, which is the same price as the other models. It’s available now. You can learn more about which shops are selling the AT-LP60X-PL here.

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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