Audio-Technica AT-LP60BK-BT

CUT THE CORD TO YOUR VINYL WITH THIS BLUETOOTH TURNTABLE.

THE MAIN REASON audiophiles still recommend vinyl is because the medium delivers natural uncompressed analog audio, unlike the majority of digital audio files. As such, we were a little apprehensive about getting Audio Technica’s new LP60BK-BT in for review, since its primary output will be a digitally-compressed Bluetooth-compatible audio stream. For many, the convenience of connecting a turntable directly through Bluetooth speakers will outweigh the subtle differences in audio output, but it does somewhat beg the question as to why you wouldn’t just use digital files in the first place.

The AT-LP60BK-BT is built from lightweight plastic, which is uncharacteristic of what we’ve come to expect from Audio Technica. Fortunately, the use of more budget-friendly materials is limited to the facade — the controls, belt drive and cartridge all worked better than we initially expected. Crucially, this turntable manages to overcome the lackluster audio quality normally associated with lighter-weight tables, producing a crisp playback that favours precise mid to high frequencies. Lower-range frequencies can lack a little when it comes to kick and warmth, a factor that is indicative of both Audio Technica’s general acoustic style and the limitations of an unweighted turntable arm. It definitely isn’t the same quality sound you’ll get from a $400 table, but then, for this roughly $250 price, we haven’t come across anything this good for playing vinyl.

Considering you’re most likely going to be hooking this up directly to a Bluetooth sound system to cut the cords of your home audio setup, the AT-LP60BK-BT is an excellent option that will do exactly what you need it to — and without breaking the bank.