The world of turntables has seen a significant resurgence in recent years, with many music enthusiasts rediscovering the joy of listening to vinyl records. Among the myriad of options available, the Audio-Technica LP60 and LP60X have emerged as two of the most popular entry-level turntables on the market. While they may seem similar at first glance, there are some key differences that set them apart. In this article, we’ll delve into the details to help you make an informed decision about which turntable is right for you.
The Birth of a Legend: Audio-Technica LP60
The Audio-Technica LP60 was first released in the early 2000s, and it quickly gained popularity among audiophiles and casual listeners alike. Its affordable price point, ease of use, and decent sound quality made it an attractive option for those looking to dip their toes into the world of vinyl. Over the years, the LP60 has undergone several revisions, with each iteration bringing improvements to its design and performance.
A Brief Overview of the LP60
The LP60 is a belt-driven, fully automatic turntable that comes equipped with a die-cast aluminum platter and a static-balanced, detachable tonearm. It features a die-cast aluminum headshell and an AT95E cartridge, which provides a high-quality sound reproduction. The turntable also comes with a built-in phono amplifier and a USB output, allowing users to easily digitize their vinyl collection.
Pros and Cons of the LP60
While the LP60 has its strengths, it’s not without its limitations. Here are some of the key pros and cons to consider:
Pros:
- Affordable price point
- Easy to set up and use
- Decent sound quality
- Built-in phono amplifier and USB output
Cons:
- Not ideal for serious audiophiles
- Limited upgrade options
- May not be as durable as more expensive turntables
The Evolution of a Classic: Audio-Technica LP60X
In 2019, Audio-Technica released the LP60X, which can be seen as a refinement of the original LP60. The new model boasts several significant upgrades, which we’ll explore in more depth below.
A Brief Overview of the LP60X
The LP60X retains the same belt-driven, fully automatic design as its predecessor, but it features several key enhancements. The most notable of these is the introduction of a new, higher-quality ATN3600L cartridge, which provides an even more accurate sound reproduction. The turntable also comes with a redesigned die-cast aluminum headshell and a hinged dust cover, making it easier to handle and maintain.
Upgrades and Improvements over the LP60
So, what sets the LP60X apart from its predecessor? Here are some of the key upgrades and improvements:
- New ATN3600L cartridge: The LP60X features a higher-quality cartridge that provides a more accurate sound reproduction, with improved tracking and better soundstage.
- Redesigned die-cast aluminum headshell: The new headshell is more durable and easier to handle, making it perfect for those who want to upgrade their cartridge in the future.
- Hinged dust cover: The LP60X comes with a hinged dust cover, which makes it easier to handle and maintain the turntable.
- Improved motor isolation: The new model features improved motor isolation, which reduces vibration and noise, resulting in a more stable and accurate sound reproduction.
- New color options: The LP60X is available in a range of new color options, including black, white, and red.
Comparing the LP60 and LP60X: Which One is Right for You?
Now that we’ve explored the features and upgrades of both turntables, it’s time to compare them and determine which one is right for you.
Sound Quality: LP60X Takes the Lead
The LP60X’s new ATN3600L cartridge and improved motor isolation result in a noticeably better sound quality compared to the LP60. If sound quality is your top priority, the LP60X is the clear winner.
Upgradability: LP60X Offers More Options
The LP60X’s redesigned die-cast aluminum headshell makes it easier to upgrade your cartridge in the future. If you’re looking for a turntable that will grow with you, the LP60X is a better option.
Price: LP60 is Still the More Affordable Option
The LP60 is still the more affordable option, with a lower price point than the LP60X. If budget is a concern, the LP60 is still a great choice.
Conclusion: Which Turntable is Right for You?
Ultimately, the decision between the LP60 and LP60X comes down to your needs and priorities. If sound quality and upgradability are your top concerns, the LP60X is the clear winner. However, if you’re on a tight budget and still want a great entry-level turntable, the LP60 is still a great option.
| Feature | LP60 | LP60X |
|---|---|---|
| Cartridge | AT95E | ATN3600L |
| Headshell | Die-cast aluminum | Redesigned die-cast aluminum |
| Dust Cover | Fixed | Hinged |
| Motor Isolation | Standard | Improved |
| Price | $100-$150 | $150-$200 |
In conclusion, while both the LP60 and LP60X are great entry-level turntables, they cater to different needs and priorities. By understanding the key differences between them, you can make an informed decision about which turntable is right for you.
What is the main difference between the LP60 and LP60X turntables?
The main difference between the LP60 and LP60X turntables lies in their tonearm and cartridge design. The LP60 features a ceramic cartridge, whereas the LP60X comes equipped with an Audio-Technica ATN3600L moving-magnet cartridge. This upgrade results in a more accurate and detailed sound reproduction. Additionally, the LP60X has a die-cast aluminum tonearm, which provides improved tracking and reduced resonance.
The LP60X’s higher-quality cartridge and tonearm design enable it to track records more accurately, resulting in a more immersive listening experience. This is especially noticeable in the midrange and high-frequency ranges, where the LP60X delivers greater clarity and detail. If you’re looking for a more premium sound quality, the LP60X is the clear winner.
Is the LP60X worth the extra cost compared to the LP60?
The LP60X is indeed worth the extra cost if you’re an audiophile or someone who values high-quality sound reproduction. The upgraded cartridge and tonearm design make a significant difference in the sound quality, providing a more engaging and immersive listening experience. Additionally, the LP60X’s build quality and materials are slightly more premium, which can justify the additional cost.
That being said, if you’re on a tight budget or just starting out with vinyl, the LP60 is still a great option. It’s an excellent entry-level turntable that provides a decent sound quality and is easy to use. However, if you’re willing to invest in a higher-quality turntable that will provide a more premium listening experience, the LP60X is the way to go.
Can I upgrade the LP60’s cartridge to match the LP60X’s performance?
While it’s technically possible to upgrade the LP60’s cartridge to match the LP60X’s performance, it’s not a straightforward process. You’d need to purchase a compatible cartridge and tonearm upgrade, which can be expensive and may void your warranty. Additionally, the LP60’s tonearm design may not be optimized for the upgraded cartridge, which can affect sound quality.
It’s generally more cost-effective and convenient to purchase the LP60X, which comes with the upgraded cartridge and tonearm design pre-installed. This ensures optimal performance and compatibility, and you won’t have to worry about sourcing and installing the upgrades yourself.
Do both turntables have built-in phono preamps?
Yes, both the LP60 and LP60X turntables come with built-in phono preamps. This means you can connect them directly to a receiver, amplifier, or active speakers without the need for an external phono preamp. However, it’s worth noting that the LP60X’s phono preamp is slightly more refined and provides a cleaner gain stage, which can result in a quieter and more detailed sound.
The built-in phono preamp is a convenient feature that simplifies the setup process and reduces clutter. However, if you’re looking for even more flexibility and customization, you can always bypass the built-in preamp and use an external phono preamp of your choice.
Are there any differences in build quality and materials between the two turntables?
While both turntables share a similar design and construction, the LP60X features slightly more premium materials and build quality. The platter, for example, is made of a higher-quality plastic on the LP60X, which helps to reduce resonance and vibration. Additionally, the LP60X’s tonearm has a more substantial and durable design, which provides improved tracking and stability.
The LP60X’s more premium build quality and materials contribute to its overall solidity and weight, which helps to reduce vibrations and resonance. This results in a more stable and consistent sound quality. However, the LP60 is still a well-built turntable that’s designed to provide years of reliable service.
Can I use the LP60 or LP60X with a USB connection?
Both the LP60 and LP60X turntables come with a USB output, which allows you to connect them directly to a computer or laptop. This enables you to digitize your vinyl collection or record audio directly to your computer. The USB output is a convenient feature that makes it easy to transfer your vinyl records to digital formats like MP3 or WAV.
When connected via USB, both turntables will work seamlessly with most audio recording software. However, keep in mind that the LP60X’s more premium cartridge and tonearm design will provide a higher-quality audio signal, which will result in a better-sounding digital transfer.
Are the LP60 and LP60X compatible with 78 RPM records?
Neither the LP60 nor the LP60X turntables are compatible with 78 RPM records out of the box. However, you can purchase an optional 78 RPM adapter kit for the LP60X, which enables it to play 78 RPM records. This kit includes a specialized adapter and a 78 RPM stylus that’s specifically designed for playing these older records.
Unfortunately, the LP60 does not have an official 78 RPM adapter kit available, so it’s not recommended for playing 78 RPM records. If you have a large collection of 78 RPM records, the LP60X with the optional adapter kit is a better option.