Vinyl is more popular than it’s been in years, so it’s no surprise that new turntables are being released on a regular basis. One such turntable is the Audio-Technica AT-LP8X, a sleek-looking turntable inspired by classic Audio-Technica models from the 1960s and 1970s, but with all the latest technology.
Audio-Technica AT-LP8X
The Audio-Technica AT-LP8X turntable is designed for vinyl fans who just want to listen to music and don’t want to mix or scratch with their records. So it’s clearly not a DJ turntable.
Instead, this turntable is all about detailed audio reproduction and a comfortable listening experience. Audio-Technica’s AT-LP8X achieves this by combining a direct drive with the ease of use of a semi-automatic system.
The turntable uses a newly developed direct drive DC servo motor. This promises low torque and improved synchronisation. Three playback speeds are available: 33, 35 and 75 RPM.
Audio-Technica’s AT-LP8X features a J-shaped aluminium tonearm and a newly designed tonearm lift. This automatically lifts the tonearm at the end of the record and stops the motor. According to Audio Technica, this is a feature rarely found on direct-drive turntables, but it helps to reduce wear and tear on the vinyl, as well as reducing the risk of damage to the needle. Another positive side effect is, of course, the ease of use. But if you like it old school, you can turn off the auto stop function with a switch on the back.
Minimalist design
The accompanying AT-LT10 headshell has also been completely redesigned. It is fitted with the AT-VM95E cartridge, but other 4-pole phono cartridges with or without threaded inserts can be used.
For example, the original needle can easily be replaced with one of the five needles from the VM95 series. The VTA (Vertical Tracking Angle) adjustment of the tonearm, combined with the sub-counterweight, ensures that a wide range of cartridges can be used.
The Audio-Technica AT-LP8X turntable features an MDF plinth with height-adjustable feet on the underside. The rubber-damped, low-resonance die-cast aluminium platter is fitted with a 2.5mm rubber mat to reduce unwanted vibration and noise.
That Audio-Technica’s AT-LP8X is aimed at hi-fi enthusiasts is also evident from the connections. There are only phono outputs, so an amplifier with phono inputs or a dedicated phono pre-amplifier is required.
Availability and pricing
Audio-Technica’s AT-LP8X is available now at a price of €999 MSRP. The AT-LT10 headset is available at a price of €59 MSRP.
Further information
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