Turntable Review Guide (2024)

May 29

Listening to city pop vinyl records is an experience that transcends merely enjoying music; it is about immersing oneself in a rich tapestry of sounds and emotions. The choice of turntable plays a pivotal role in this experience. A good turntable not only preserves the integrity of the music but also enhances the listener’s connection to the nostalgic and vibrant spirit of city pop. The right equipment can bring out the subtle nuances in the music, allowing you to fully appreciate the artistry and production that defines this genre.

City pop, with its blend of jazz, funk, and R&B influences, demands a turntable that can handle its dynamic range and intricate details. A high-quality turntable will ensure that the vinyl is played with precision, maintaining the clarity of each instrument and vocal line. This genre’s hallmark is its smooth, polished production, which can easily be lost on a subpar turntable. Investing in a good turntable ensures that the music is experienced as the artists intended, capturing every shimmering synth line and crisp drumbeat.

Moreover, the physical design and build quality of a turntable contribute significantly to the listening experience. A well-crafted turntable minimizes vibrations and resonance, which can distort the sound. Features such as a stable platter and an adjustable tonearm allow for precise tracking of the vinyl grooves, preventing skips and ensuring consistent playback. This attention to detail is crucial when playing city pop records, where the seamless flow of the music is essential to its charm.

The aesthetic appeal of a turntable also enhances the overall experience of listening to city pop. This genre often evokes a sense of nostalgia and longing for a specific era. A stylish, retro-inspired turntable can complement the visual and tactile elements of vinyl records, creating a more immersive environment. The act of placing a record on the turntable, setting the needle, and watching it spin becomes a ritual that enriches the enjoyment of the music.

Choosing a good turntable is not merely about audio fidelity; it is about creating a holistic listening experience that honors the unique qualities of city pop. From preserving the intricate soundscapes to enhancing the nostalgic ambiance, the right turntable can transform listening to vinyl records into a deeply satisfying and emotionally resonant activity. Whether you are a dedicated audiophile or a casual listener, investing in a high-quality turntable is an essential step in fully appreciating the magic of city pop. Ofcorse, you should understand the importance of using a high quality stylus that does not damage the record, and this includes knowing how to adjust the counter-weight on the tone arm, but that is a story for another article.

My favorite brand is Audio Technica for many reason including afforadbility and excellent durability/quality. Here are some Audio Technica turntables I reviewed that might help you on your journey to discovering the beauty of listening to vinyl the way they were meant to be heard.

Audio-Technica AT-LP60X-BK

Fully Automatic Belt-Drive Stereo Turntable, Black, Hi-Fi, 2 Speed, Dust Cover, Anti-Resonance, Die-Cast Aluminum Platter

$149

The Audio-Technica AT-LP60X-BK Fully Automatic Belt-Drive Stereo Turntable is a remarkable entry-level turntable that delivers solid performance at an affordable price. Designed with Hi-Fi enthusiasts in mind, it offers a range of features that cater to both beginners and more seasoned vinyl collectors.

One of the standout features of the AT-LP60X-BK is its fully automatic operation. This makes it incredibly user-friendly, especially for those new to vinyl. With the press of a button, the tonearm lifts, moves to the correct position, and gently lowers onto the record. This convenience is complemented by the turntable's two-speed functionality, accommodating both 33 1/3 and 45 RPM records, ensuring versatility in your vinyl collection.

The build quality of the AT-LP60X-BK is impressive for its price point. The anti-resonance, die-cast aluminum platter helps to reduce unwanted vibrations, providing a more stable and consistent playback. This is crucial for maintaining the fidelity of your music, allowing you to enjoy the rich, detailed sound that vinyl records offer. The included dust cover is a practical addition, protecting the turntable and your records from dust and debris.

In terms of sound quality, the AT-LP60X-BK punches above its weight. The built-in switchable phono preamp allows you to connect it directly to powered speakers or a stereo system without the need for an external preamp. This flexibility makes it a great option for those who want a straightforward setup without sacrificing audio quality. The sound output is clear and balanced, with a good reproduction of bass and treble frequencies.

Overall, the Audio-Technica AT-LP60X-BK is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to dive into the world of vinyl or seeking a reliable secondary turntable. Its combination of ease of use, solid construction, and commendable sound quality makes it a standout option in its price range. Whether you're just starting your vinyl journey or adding to your existing setup, this turntable offers excellent value and performance.

Check it out here

Audio-Technica AT-LP60XBT-BK

Fully Automatic Bluetooth Belt-Drive Stereo Turntable, Black, Hi-Fi, 2 Speed, Dust Cover, Anti-Resonance, Die-cast Aluminum Platter

$219

The Audio-Technica AT-LP60XBT-BK Fully Automatic Bluetooth Belt-Drive Stereo Turntable is an excellent choice for those seeking the convenience of modern technology without compromising on the classic vinyl experience. This turntable combines the ease of use and solid performance that Audio-Technica is known for, with the added benefit of Bluetooth connectivity.

One of the most attractive features of the AT-LP60XBT-BK is its Bluetooth capability. This allows you to connect wirelessly to your Bluetooth-enabled speakers, headphones, or other devices, eliminating the need for cumbersome cables. This feature is particularly appealing for those who want a clean, uncluttered setup or the flexibility to move around while enjoying their vinyl collection. Pairing the turntable with Bluetooth devices is straightforward and reliable, maintaining a strong connection with minimal interference.

Like its non-Bluetooth counterpart, the AT-LP60XBT-BK boasts fully automatic operation, making it extremely user-friendly. The ease of use is a significant advantage for beginners and casual listeners who appreciate the convenience of one-touch play. The turntable supports two speeds, 33 1/3 and 45 RPM, allowing you to play a wide range of records with ease. The inclusion of a dust cover is a practical touch, keeping your turntable and records protected from dust and debris.

The build quality of the AT-LP60XBT-BK is impressive, featuring an anti-resonance, die-cast aluminum platter that helps to reduce vibrations and ensure stable playback. This attention to detail in the construction enhances the overall listening experience by maintaining the fidelity of the music. The sound quality is robust, with clear and balanced audio output that captures the nuances of your vinyl records. The built-in switchable phono preamp adds to the turntable’s versatility, allowing for easy integration into various audio setups.

Another notable feature is the combination of classic design with modern functionality. The turntable's sleek black finish and minimalist design give it a stylish, contemporary look that fits well in any setting. Whether you’re a newcomer to vinyl or a seasoned collector, the AT-LP60XBT-BK’s blend of traditional and modern elements makes it a compelling addition to your audio setup.

In conclusion, the Audio-Technica AT-LP60XBT-BK Fully Automatic Bluetooth Belt-Drive Stereo Turntable offers a perfect balance of convenience, quality, and modern technology. Its user-friendly features, combined with solid construction and excellent sound performance, make it an ideal choice for anyone looking to enjoy their vinyl collection wirelessly. Whether you’re upgrading your current setup or diving into the world of vinyl for the first time, this turntable provides exceptional value and performance.

Check it out here

Audio-Technica AT-LPW50BT-RW Manual Belt-Drive Turntable, Rosewood

$499

The Audio-Technica AT-LPW50BT-RW Manual Belt-Drive Turntable in Rosewood is a standout piece in both design and performance. Its elegant rosewood finish gives it a sophisticated, vintage aesthetic that can enhance any room's decor, making it not just a turntable but also a stylish piece of furniture. The manual operation of the AT-LPW50BT-RW provides a more hands-on and authentic vinyl experience, appealing to purists who enjoy the tactile engagement of placing the needle on the record.

One of the key highlights of the AT-LPW50BT-RW is its superior build quality. The chassis is crafted from anti-resonance MDF, which helps to minimize vibrations and unwanted noise, ensuring that your listening experience is as pure as possible. This turntable also features an aluminum platter, which further aids in delivering stable and consistent playback, crucial for high-fidelity sound.

Bluetooth connectivity is a major feature of this model, allowing users to wirelessly connect to speakers, headphones, or other devices. This added flexibility means you can enjoy the warm sound of vinyl records without being tethered to your turntable by cables. The Bluetooth connection is robust and reliable, ensuring that the audio quality remains high even when streaming wirelessly.

The AT-LPW50BT-RW also includes a high-performance AT-VM95E cartridge, known for its excellent tracking and audio clarity. This cartridge ensures that every detail in the grooves of your records is picked up and reproduced faithfully. Additionally, the adjustable dynamic anti-skate control and tonearm counterweight allow for precise calibration, protecting your vinyl collection and enhancing the overall sound quality.

In summary, the Audio-Technica AT-LPW50BT-RW Manual Belt-Drive Turntable is an excellent choice for those who value both style and substance. Its rosewood finish, superior build quality, and advanced features like Bluetooth connectivity and a high-performance cartridge make it a versatile and appealing option for both audiophiles and casual listeners. Whether you're new to vinyl or looking to upgrade your existing setup, this turntable offers a blend of modern convenience and classic audio performance.

Check it out here

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