Audio T Verdict
The Audio-Technica AT-LP5X is the sort of turntable that bridges the gap between convenient modern connectivity and the adjustability we would expect from a proper hi-fi record deck.
It is fully manual, direct drive and capable of playing 33?, 45 and 78rpm records. There is no automatic start or return mechanism and no pitch slider; instead, the emphasis is on straightforward hi-fi playback from a low-noise direct-drive motor with a substantial platter, proper adjustable tonearm and upgradeable cartridge.
The J-shaped tonearm is particularly distinctive. Inspired by Audio-Technica's own turntables from the 1960s and 1970s, it uses a metallic gimbal suspension with precision bearings, adjustable counterweight and dynamic anti-skate. The removable AT-HS6 headshell also makes future cartridge changes considerably easier.
Audio-Technica supplies the LP5X with its AT-VM95E moving-magnet cartridge and bonded elliptical stylus. That is a very useful starting point because the same VM95 body accepts Conical, Nude Elliptical, Microlinear, Shibata and dedicated 78rpm replacement styli. You can therefore make a substantial cartridge upgrade without removing or realigning the cartridge body.
The built-in phono stage is more flexible than most. It is switchable between moving-magnet and moving-coil cartridge operation, with separate gain settings for each, while a PHONO / LINE selector allows the internal preamp to be bypassed entirely when using a separate phono stage.
USB output is also built in, allowing records to be captured to a computer at 16-bit / 44.1kHz or 48kHz. It is a useful addition if you have rare vinyl that you would like to archive without turning the LP5X into a computer-centric product.
The deck itself is reassuringly substantial at 7.3kg, with a die-cast aluminium platter, heavy 5mm rubber mat, damped chassis construction and an external power supply that keeps AC-to-DC conversion away from the sensitive analogue electronics.
If you want a direct-drive turntable that feels more grown-up and hi-fi orientated than the traditional DJ-inspired alternatives, while still offering USB, 78rpm and an onboard phono stage, the AT-LP5X makes a very compelling case.
Audio-Technica AT-LP5X Fully Manual Direct-Drive Turntable
The Audio-Technica AT-LP5X is a three-speed fully manual direct-drive turntable combining classic Audio-Technica tonearm design with modern cartridge, phono-stage and USB connectivity.
It is supplied ready to play with an AT-VM95E cartridge mounted to an AT-HS6 removable headshell, while the adjustable tonearm and standard half-inch cartridge mounting provide plenty of scope for future upgrades.
Low-Noise Direct-Drive Motor
The AT-LP5X uses a quartz-controlled DC servo direct-drive motor.
Rather than transmitting drive through a separate belt, the platter is mounted directly to the motor spindle.
Benefits of the direct-drive approach include:
- Quick start-up
- Strong starting torque
- No drive belt to replace
- Electronic speed selection
- Direct control of platter rotation
- Three-speed operation
Starting Torque Above 1.0kgf.cm
Audio-Technica specifies:
Greater than 1.0kgf.cm starting torque.
This allows the platter to reach operating speed rapidly after the control is turned from STOP to the selected playback speed.
Electronic Braking
The direct-drive system incorporates an electronic brake to bring platter rotation to a controlled stop.
33?, 45 and 78rpm
The AT-LP5X provides three playback speeds:
This makes it suitable for conventional LPs and singles as well as historic 78rpm records when the correct stylus is fitted.
78rpm Playback
The turntable itself provides genuine 78rpm operation.
The supplied AT-VM95E stylus, however, is designed for conventional microgroove LP and 45rpm records rather than the much wider grooves found on traditional shellac SP records.
Use a Dedicated 78rpm Stylus
For traditional wide-groove 78rpm records, fit a suitable SP stylus such as the Audio-Technica AT-VMN95SP.
The AT-VMN95SP fits directly onto the supplied VM95 cartridge body, so you do not necessarily need to replace or realign the complete cartridge.
Explore the Audio-Technica AT-VM95SP 78rpm cartridge and stylus options.
Important 78rpm Tracking-Force Note
Audio-Technica recommends approximately 5g downforce when using a dedicated SP stylus for 78rpm playback.
The LP5X manual publishes a calibrated stylus-pressure adjustment range of 0–4g, so we recommend checking actual downforce with an accurate stylus-force gauge when setting the deck up for SP playback rather than relying solely on the printed counterweight scale.
When returning to a normal LP stylus, reset both tracking force and anti-skate to the correct settings before playing a record.
Do Not Leave SP Tracking Force Set for LP Playback
The supplied AT-VM95E normally tracks at 2.0g.
Always reset the tonearm when changing between LP and dedicated 78rpm styli.
No Pitch Control
Unlike the AT-LP120XUSB, the AT-LP5X does not provide continuously variable pitch adjustment.
Its 78rpm setting is therefore best suited to records intended for standard 78rpm playback rather than archival applications where precise correction of unusual historic recording speeds is required.
Die-Cast Aluminium Platter
The platter uses:
Die-cast aluminium construction.
Audio-Technica machines the platter for stable on-axis rotation and combines it with a substantial rubber damping mat.
5mm Heavy Rubber Mat
A 5mm thick heavy rubber mat is supplied.
Its mass and damping help reduce unwanted vibration between the record and platter while providing a stable playing surface.
Wow and Flutter Below 0.2%
Audio-Technica specifies:
Less than 0.2% WRMS at 33rpm, measured at 3kHz.
Wow and flutter describe short-term variations in platter speed that can result in audible pitch instability.
Signal-to-Noise Ratio Above 50dB
The AT-LP5X is specified with a signal-to-noise ratio of:
Greater than 50dB.
Classic J-Shaped Tonearm
The AT-LP5X uses a static-balanced J-shaped tonearm inspired by classic Audio-Technica designs from the 1960s and 1970s.
Rather than being purely cosmetic, the arm incorporates:
- Metallic gimbal suspension
- Precision bearings
- Adjustable counterweight
- Adjustable tracking force
- Dynamic anti-skate adjustment
- Manual cueing lever
- Removable headshell
- Lockable arm rest
247mm Effective Tonearm Length
Audio-Technica specifies an effective tonearm length of:
247mm.
Overhang is:
17mm.
Maximum tracking error angle is specified at less than 3 degrees.
Adjustable Tracking Force
The counterweight and tracking-force ring allow the arm to be balanced for different compatible cartridges.
The published stylus-pressure adjustment range is:
0–4g.
The supplied AT-VM95E uses 2.0g as its standard tracking force.
Adjustable Dynamic Anti-Skate
The anti-skate control counteracts the inward force acting on the tonearm during playback.
For the supplied AT-VM95E, Audio-Technica recommends starting with anti-skate matched to the cartridge's 2.0g tracking force.
Applicable Cartridge and Headshell Weight
Audio-Technica specifies a combined cartridge and headshell range of:
15–20g.
This is useful when fitting alternative cartridge and headshell combinations, although weight is only one part of tonearm compatibility.
AT-HS6 Removable Headshell
The LP5X is supplied with Audio-Technica's lightweight:
AT-HS6 headshell.
It weighs 9.3g including its lead wires and provides ±5mm of cartridge-position adjustment.
The removable headshell makes cartridge installation and swapping considerably easier than working beneath a permanently fixed tonearm tube.
AT-VM95E Cartridge Included
Audio-Technica supplies the LP5X with its:
AT-VM95E dual magnet moving-magnet cartridge.
Its 0.3 x 0.7mil bonded elliptical stylus is mounted to an aluminium-pipe cantilever and provides a healthy 4.0mV output.
Standard tracking force is 2.0g, with an allowable range of 1.8–2.2g.
Explore the Audio-Technica AT-VM95E cartridge and stylus options.
One Cartridge Body, Six Stylus Options
The VM95 platform is one of the LP5X's strongest upgrade features.
The supplied body accepts:
- AT-VMN95C - Bonded Conical
- AT-VMN95E - Bonded Elliptical
- AT-VMN95EN - Nude Elliptical
- AT-VMN95ML - Nude Microlinear
- AT-VMN95SH - Nude Shibata
- AT-VMN95SP - 3mil Conical for 78rpm SP records
The cartridge body can remain mounted and aligned while the stylus assembly itself is changed.
Read: Are All Turntable Cartridges the Same? A Study of the Audio-Technica VM95
A Very Easy Upgrade Path
Moving from the supplied Elliptical stylus to the AT-VMN95ML Microlinear or AT-VMN95SH Shibata can substantially change the groove-contact profile without requiring another cartridge body.
Upgrade to Microlinear
The AT-VMN95ML provides a nude Microlinear stylus designed for extremely fine groove tracing and strong inner-groove performance.
Explore the Audio-Technica AT-VM95ML at Audio T.
Upgrade to Shibata
The AT-VMN95SH provides a nude Shibata stylus with extended groove-wall contact.
Explore the Audio-Technica AT-VM95SH at Audio T.
You Can Fit a Completely Different Cartridge
The AT-HS6 uses standard half-inch cartridge mounting, so the LP5X is not permanently tied to the supplied VM95 body.
When replacing the cartridge, remember to check:
- Combined cartridge and headshell weight
- Tracking force
- Cartridge compliance
- Overhang
- Offset angle
- Anti-skate
- Phono-stage requirements
Built-In Moving Magnet and Moving Coil Phono Stage
The AT-LP5X contains a switchable phono preamplifier supporting both:
- Moving Magnet / VM cartridges
- Moving Coil cartridges
This is considerably more flexible than turntables whose internal phono stage supports moving-magnet cartridges only.
36dB MM Gain
With the internal phono stage set for MM / VM cartridges, Audio-Technica specifies:
36dB nominal gain with RIAA equalisation.
This is the correct cartridge mode for the supplied AT-VM95E.
56dB MC Gain
For a compatible moving-coil cartridge, the internal preamplifier provides:
56dB nominal gain with RIAA equalisation.
Moving-coil cartridges vary considerably in output and loading requirements, so compatibility should still be checked rather than assuming every MC cartridge will be an ideal match.
Check the MM / MC Selector
The supplied AT-VM95E is a VM moving-magnet cartridge and the selector should be set to MM.
If you later fit a moving-coil cartridge and use the internal phono stage, change the selector accordingly.
PHONO or LINE Output
A separate selector determines whether the built-in phono stage is used.
LINE: uses the LP5X's internal phono preamplifier.
PHONO: bypasses the internal preamplifier for connection to an external phono stage or suitable amplifier phono input.
Connect Directly to a Normal Line Input
With the selector set to LINE, the turntable can connect to a normal analogue line-level input on compatible equipment.
Audio-Technica specifies a nominal line output of:
250mV at 1kHz, 5cm/sec using the supplied MM cartridge.
Use Your Own Phono Stage
If you already own a higher-quality external phono stage, set the turntable to PHONO and bypass the onboard circuitry.
This makes the built-in stage useful when you need it without limiting future system upgrades.
Browse phono stages at Audio T.
Match the Output Setting to Your Amplifier
Connecting the LINE output to a conventional phono input can result in excessive level and distortion.
Connecting the raw PHONO output to a standard line input will normally result in very low level and incorrect tonal balance.
USB Vinyl Recording
The AT-LP5X includes a USB output for recording records to a computer.
This can be useful for:
- Archiving rare records
- Digitising personal collections
- Creating digital copies for portable listening
- Capturing records unavailable through streaming services
- Basic restoration and editing
16-Bit Digital Output
The built-in analogue-to-digital converter supports:
- 16-bit / 44.1kHz
- 16-bit / 48kHz
The computer connection uses USB 2.0.
No Special USB Driver Required
The LP5X can connect to a compatible computer using the supplied USB cable without requiring a proprietary Audio-Technica driver.
Audacity is one recording option, while other compatible audio-recording software can also be used.
Set the Preamp to LINE for USB Recording
Audio-Technica instructs users to select LINE when connecting the LP5X to a computer via USB.
No Bluetooth
The AT-LP5X does not include Bluetooth transmission.
Its connections are conventional analogue RCA and wired USB.
Chassis Designed to Control Vibration
Audio-Technica constructs the LP5X chassis using vibration-damping materials together with substantial internal mass inserts.
The aim is to reduce acoustic and mechanical resonance reaching the cartridge.
External Power Supply
The AC-to-DC conversion takes place in the external power adapter rather than inside the turntable chassis.
This moves a potential source of electrical noise away from the cartridge and internal analogue signal path.
Adjustable Feet
The LP5X feet can be adjusted to help level the turntable after it has been positioned.
A turntable should always be used on a stable, level and suitably isolated support.
Dust Cover Included
A removable hinged dust cover is supplied.
It protects the platter, tonearm and cartridge when the turntable is not in use.
7.3kg Turntable Weight
The LP5X weighs:
7.3kg.
Overall dimensions are:
450mm W x 352mm D x 157mm H.
Allow additional space behind and above the turntable if the hinged dust cover will be used while fitted.
AT-LP5X or AT-LP120XUSB?
AT-LP5X
- Fully manual
- Direct drive
- 33?, 45 and 78rpm
- J-shaped 247mm tonearm
- AT-VM95E cartridge
- AT-HS6 removable headshell
- Built-in MM and MC phono stage
- USB recording
- 5mm heavy rubber mat
- Damped hi-fi-orientated chassis
- No pitch slider
- 7.3kg
AT-LP120XUSB
- Fully manual
- Direct drive
- 33?, 45 and 78rpm
- S-shaped tonearm
- AT-VM95E cartridge
- AT-HS6 removable headshell
- Built-in MM phono stage
- USB recording
- Pitch adjustment
- Quartz-lock control
- Stroboscopic platter markings
- More DJ-influenced control layout
The LP5X places greater emphasis on a clean hi-fi layout, longer J-shaped tonearm, substantial damping and MM / MC phono-stage flexibility.
The LP120XUSB provides more hands-on speed control, including variable pitch and stroboscopic speed indication.
Compare the Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB at Audio T.
Direct Drive or Belt Drive?
The LP5X takes the direct-drive approach, but neither drive system is automatically the right answer for every turntable.
Read: Direct Drive vs Belt Driven Turntables - Which Is Better?
Fully Manual Operation
The LP5X does not automatically position, lower or return the tonearm.
To play a record you:
- Select the required speed
- Raise the cueing lever
- Move the tonearm over the required groove
- Lower the cueing lever
- Return the tonearm manually when playback finishes
For many vinyl listeners, that simple manual interaction is part of the appeal.
Who Is the Audio-Technica AT-LP5X For?
Well Suited To
- Customers wanting a serious direct-drive hi-fi turntable
- Listeners who prefer fully manual operation
- Customers wanting 33?, 45 and 78rpm playback
- Users wanting an upgradeable VM95 cartridge
- Customers wanting a removable headshell
- Users considering future MM or MC cartridges
- Systems without an existing phono stage
- Systems with a separate phono stage
- Customers wanting USB record archiving
- Listeners wanting a substantial, damped turntable chassis
Check Before Buying
- Fully manual with no automatic return
- No Bluetooth
- No variable pitch adjustment
- 7.3kg weight
- 450mm wide chassis
- USB recording is 16-bit / 44.1 or 48kHz
- Traditional 78rpm records require a suitable SP stylus
- Alternative cartridges must suit the tonearm and headshell weight range
- Cartridge upgrades require correct alignment and setup
Key Features
- Audio-Technica AT-LP5X
- Fully manual operation
- DC servo direct-drive motor
- 33? rpm playback
- 45rpm playback
- 78rpm playback
- Greater than 1.0kgf.cm starting torque
- Electronic braking
- Die-cast aluminium platter
- 5mm heavy rubber mat
- Less than 0.2% WRMS wow and flutter
- Greater than 50dB signal-to-noise ratio
- Static-balanced J-shaped tonearm
- 247mm effective arm length
- 17mm overhang
- Less than 3-degree maximum tracking error
- Adjustable tracking force
- Dynamic anti-skate adjustment
- AT-HS6 removable headshell
- AT-VM95E cartridge included
- 0.3 x 0.7mil bonded elliptical stylus
- VM95 interchangeable stylus platform
- Switchable MM / MC built-in phono stage
- 36dB MM phono gain
- 56dB MC phono gain
- PHONO / LINE selector
- 250mV nominal line output
- USB computer output
- 16-bit / 44.1kHz USB conversion
- 16-bit / 48kHz USB conversion
- USB 2.0 interface
- Damped chassis construction
- Heavy internal mass inserts
- External AC power adapter
- Adjustable feet
- Removable hinged dust cover
- 7.3kg turntable weight
- Matt black finish
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this page for the AT-LP3 or AT-LP5X?
The product being sold is the Audio-Technica AT-LP5X. The old AT-LP3 wording should be removed from the page.
Is the AT-LP5X direct drive or belt drive?
It uses a DC servo direct-drive motor.
Is the AT-LP5X automatic?
No. It is a fully manual turntable.
Does the tonearm automatically return at the end of a record?
No. You return the tonearm manually.
What speeds does it play?
33?, 45 and 78rpm.
Does it have pitch control?
No. Unlike the AT-LP120XUSB, the AT-LP5X does not provide continuously variable pitch adjustment.
Can it play 78rpm records?
Yes. The turntable operates at 78rpm, but traditional wide-groove SP records require a suitable 78rpm stylus rather than the supplied LP stylus.
Which 78rpm stylus fits the supplied cartridge?
The Audio-Technica AT-VMN95SP fits the supplied VM95 cartridge body.
What cartridge is supplied?
The AT-LP5X is supplied with an Audio-Technica AT-VM95E dual magnet moving-magnet cartridge.
What stylus is supplied?
A bonded 0.3 x 0.7mil elliptical AT-VMN95E stylus.
Can I upgrade only the stylus?
Yes. The VM95 body accepts the complete VM95 range of compatible replacement styli.
Can I fit the AT-VMN95ML Microlinear stylus?
Yes. It fits directly onto the supplied VM95 body.
Can I fit the AT-VMN95SH Shibata stylus?
Yes. The Shibata stylus is also directly compatible with the VM95 body.
Can I replace the whole cartridge?
Yes. The AT-HS6 headshell supports standard half-inch cartridges, subject to tonearm, weight, compliance and phono-stage compatibility.
Is the headshell removable?
Yes. Audio-Technica supplies an AT-HS6 removable headshell.
How much does the headshell weigh?
9.3g including its lead wires.
What cartridge and headshell weight range does the arm support?
Audio-Technica specifies 15–20g combined.
How long is the tonearm?
The effective length is 247mm.
What is the overhang?
17mm.
What tracking force does the AT-VM95E use?
Audio-Technica specifies 1.8–2.2g, with 2.0g as the standard setting.
Does the LP5X have adjustable anti-skate?
Yes. Dynamic anti-skate adjustment is provided.
Does it have a built-in phono stage?
Yes. The built-in RIAA phono preamplifier is switchable.
Does the built-in phono stage support moving coil cartridges?
Yes. The LP5X provides separate MM / VM and MC cartridge settings.
What gain does the built-in MM stage provide?
36dB nominal.
What gain does the MC setting provide?
56dB nominal.
Can I connect the LP5X to an amplifier without a phono input?
Yes. Set the LP5X to LINE and use its built-in phono stage.
Can I use an external phono stage?
Yes. Select PHONO to bypass the built-in preamp and connect the turntable to a suitable external phono stage.
Does it have USB?
Yes. A USB output is provided for recording records to a compatible computer.
What USB quality does it support?
16-bit audio at 44.1kHz or 48kHz.
Do I need special Audio-Technica USB drivers?
No proprietary Audio-Technica driver is required for normal connection to a compatible computer.
Does the LP5X have Bluetooth?
No. The LP5X provides analogue RCA and wired USB connections.
What is the starting torque?
Greater than 1.0kgf.cm.
What is the wow and flutter specification?
Less than 0.2% WRMS at 33rpm, measured at 3kHz.
What is the signal-to-noise ratio?
Greater than 50dB.
How thick is the supplied rubber mat?
5mm.
What are the dimensions?
450mm wide, 352mm deep and 157mm high.
How much does the LP5X weigh?
7.3kg.
Is a dust cover included?
Yes. A removable hinged dust cover is supplied.
Can Audio T set the LP5X up for me?
Yes. Contact your local Audio T store for help with turntable levelling, cartridge alignment, tracking force, anti-skate, cartridge upgrades and phono-stage matching.
Related Audio-Technica Products and Audio T Guides
Why Buy From Audio T?
- Turntable demonstrations
- Direct-drive turntable advice
- Turntable and system matching
- VM95 stylus upgrade guidance
- Moving magnet and moving coil cartridge advice
- 78rpm playback guidance
- Turntable levelling and setup
- Professional cartridge fitting
- Precision cartridge alignment
- Tracking-force adjustment
- Bias and anti-skate setup
- Headshell and cartridge matching
- Built-in versus external phono-stage advice
- USB vinyl-recording guidance
- Part-exchange options
- Ongoing after-sales support
Contact your local Audio T store for advice on the Audio-Technica AT-LP5X, cartridge and stylus upgrades, 78rpm playback, phono-stage matching or professional turntable setup.