The Audio-Technica AT-LP60 is a popular entry-level turntable that has won the hearts of many vinyl enthusiasts. Its affordability, ease of use, and decent sound quality make it an attractive option for those looking to dip their toes into the world of vinyl collecting. However, one question that often crops up among potential buyers is: Does the Audio-Technica AT-LP60 have built-in speakers?
The Short Answer
The short answer is no, the Audio-Technica AT-LP60 does not have built-in speakers. This may come as a surprise to some, especially those who are used to all-in-one stereos or portable speakers that come equipped with built-in speakers. However, the AT-LP60 is a turntable that requires external speakers or a stereo system to function.
Understanding the Design Philosophy
So, why did Audio-Technica choose to omit built-in speakers from the AT-LP60’s design? The answer lies in the company’s design philosophy. Audio-Technica is a professional audio equipment manufacturer that caters to a wide range of users, from casual listeners to professional musicians and audio engineers.
The AT-LP60 is positioned as an entry-level turntable that is designed to provide a high-quality listening experience at an affordable price point. By omitting built-in speakers, Audio-Technica is able to keep costs down and focus on delivering a turntable that excels in its primary function: playing vinyl records.
Focusing on the Essentials
By not including built-in speakers, Audio-Technica can allocate more resources to the AT-LP60’s internal components, such as the phonograph cartridge, tonearm, and motor. This allows the turntable to deliver a more accurate and detailed sound reproduction, which is essential for vinyl enthusiasts.
Additionally, the lack of built-in speakers allows users to choose their own speakers or stereo system, which can be tailored to their specific needs and preferences. This flexibility is particularly useful for those who already have a home stereo system or prefer to use high-end speakers that can milk the best sound out of their vinyl records.
What Are Your Options?
So, what are your options if you don’t have external speakers or a stereo system? Fear not, dear vinyl enthusiast, for there are several solutions to get you started:
Purchase a Separate Speaker System
One option is to purchase a separate speaker system that is compatible with the AT-LP60. This can range from bookshelf speakers to floor-standing speakers, depending on your budget and space constraints. When choosing speakers, make sure to look for ones that are designed for vinyl playback and have the necessary inputs (e.g., RCA or phono) to connect to the turntable.
| Speaker Type | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| Bookshelf Speakers | Compact, affordable, easy to place | May lack bass response, limited power handling |
| Floor-Standing Speakers | Better bass response, more power handling, can fill larger rooms | Takes up more space, generally more expensive |
Use a Phono Amplifier with Built-In Speakers
Another option is to use a phono amplifier with built-in speakers. These devices are specifically designed to amplify the phono signal from the turntable and provide a built-in speaker system. While they may not offer the same level of sound quality as a separate speaker system, they are convenient and often more affordable.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Audio-Technica AT-LP60 does not have built-in speakers, but this is a deliberate design choice that allows the turntable to focus on its primary function: playing vinyl records with accuracy and detail. By omitting built-in speakers, Audio-Technica is able to keep costs down and provide users with the flexibility to choose their own speakers or stereo system.
Whether you’re a seasoned vinyl enthusiast or just starting out, the AT-LP60 is an excellent choice for anyone looking to dive into the world of vinyl collecting. So, go ahead, spin those tunes, and enjoy the warm, rich sound of vinyl – just don’t forget to hook up those external speakers!
Can the AT-LP60 connect to external speakers?
The AT-LP60 can connect to external speakers, but it requires some additional setup. The turntable has a built-in phono amplifier, which allows it to connect directly to powered speakers or a stereo system with a phono input. However, if you want to connect it to passive speakers, you’ll need to use a separate phono preamp or a receiver with a phono input.
It’s worth noting that the AT-LP60’s built-in amplifier is designed for low-impedance speakers, so you may need to adjust the settings or use an impedance adapter if you’re using high-impedance speakers. Additionally, some users have reported issues with hum or noise when connecting to external speakers, so you may need to experiment with different cables or grounding options to find the best solution.
Why doesn’t the AT-LP60 have built-in speakers?
One of the main reasons the AT-LP60 doesn’t have built-in speakers is to keep costs down and focus on the quality of the turntable itself. By not including speakers, Audio-Technica was able to invest more in the design and materials of the turntable, resulting in a more accurate and reliable vinyl playback experience.
Another reason is that built-in speakers can often compromise the sound quality of a turntable. Speakers can introduce vibrations and resonance that can affect the accuracy of the stylus tracking the grooves on the record. By separating the turntable from the speakers, users can choose their own speakers and position them in a way that minimizes interference and optimizes sound quality.
Can I use the AT-LP60 with wireless speakers?
Yes, you can use the AT-LP60 with wireless speakers, but you’ll need to connect the turntable to a wireless transmitter or a streaming device that can send audio signals to your wireless speakers. This can be done using a variety of methods, including Bluetooth adapters, Wi-Fi streaming devices, or audio receivers with wireless connectivity.
Keep in mind that wireless audio transmission can sometimes introduce latency or compression artifacts, which may affect the sound quality of your vinyl records. However, many modern wireless speakers and streaming devices offer high-quality audio transmission with minimal loss of fidelity, so it’s definitely possible to get a great listening experience with the AT-LP60 and wireless speakers.
How do I connect the AT-LP60 to a receiver or amplifier?
To connect the AT-LP60 to a receiver or amplifier, you’ll need to use an RCA-to-RCA cable to connect the turntable’s phono output to the receiver’s phono input. Make sure to set the receiver to the correct input and adjust the gain settings accordingly. If your receiver has a separate phono preamp, you may need to use a separate RCA cable to connect the turntable to the preamp.
It’s also important to ensure that the receiver or amplifier is set to the correct impedance and gain settings for the AT-LP60’s phono output. Refer to the user manual for both the turntable and the receiver to ensure the correct settings and avoid damaging your equipment.
Can I use the AT-LP60 with a soundbar?
Yes, you can use the AT-LP60 with a soundbar, but you’ll need to connect the turntable to a receiver or amplifier first, and then connect the receiver to the soundbar. This is because most soundbars don’t have a phono input, so you’ll need to use a receiver or amplifier with a phono input to connect the AT-LP60.
Some soundbars may also have a separate analog audio input, such as an AUX or Line input, which can be used to connect the turntable directly. However, this may require additional adapters or converters, and the sound quality may not be optimized for vinyl playback.
Why does the AT-LP60 have a USB output?
The AT-LP60 has a USB output that allows you to connect the turntable directly to a computer or other digital device, such as a digital audio workstation or a recording software. This allows you to digitize your vinyl records and create digital files, which can be edited, shared, or archived.
The USB output is also useful for connecting the turntable to a digital audio system or a media player, allowing you to stream your vinyl records to multiple rooms or devices. However, keep in mind that the USB output is not for audio playback, and you’ll still need to connect the turntable to a separate audio system or speakers to listen to your records.
Can I upgrade the AT-LP60’s internal phono preamp?
While it’s technically possible to upgrade the AT-LP60’s internal phono preamp, it’s not a recommended modification for most users. The internal phono preamp is designed to work specifically with the turntable’s circuitry and components, and upgrading it may require advanced technical knowledge and expertise.
Additionally, upgrading the phono preamp may void the turntable’s warranty, and it may also affect the overall sound quality or introduce new noise or distortion. If you’re looking to upgrade your phono preamp, it’s often easier and more effective to use an external phono preamp that’s specifically designed for your turntable and audio system.