The 6 Very Best Turntables

Signal output: Phono, line | Connections: Analog, Bluetooth, USB | Controls: Fully manual

The Audio-Technica LP120X is modeled — not so subtly — after what is probably the most iconic turntable of all time, the discontinued Technics 1200. Steinberg says he would recommend it to any customer, but he suggests it especially to those newer to vinyl who want something a little nicer than an entry-level option and don’t mind manual operation.

This turntable’s key feature is the magnet-powered “direct drive,” which is usually only found in professional-grade turntables or other, more expensive units. DJ Prestige explains that unlike turntables with a “belt drive” (a motor powered by replaceable belts that wear down with use and may need to be swapped depending on the type of record you play), a direct drive will rarely, if ever, need service. According to Prestige, a DJ of 20 years, it can handle records of all sizes without any fiddling under the hood. “If I were starting over right now, I’d probably get this,” he says, because of the quality you get for the price. And although Davis has never used the LP120X or its very similar predecessor, the LP120, “I bought a 120 for my nephew, and he loves it. And he bought one for his friend, who loves it too.”

For Steinberg, Prestige, and Davis, this turntable checks other appealing boxes, too. It comes from a reputable maker; it has a built-in preamp, so the only other thing you need to use it is a powered speaker; and its USB output allows you to connect it to your computer if you want to archive your vinyl. It’s also fully manual, so you have much more control and a more tactile experience when playing records.

According to Steinberg, the LP120X has a more efficient motor than the earlier LP120, “so it needs less energy and gets up to speed faster.” Audio-Technica does a great job of listening to customer feedback, Steinberg says, and the 120X reflects that, boasting a lower profile, a stronger preamp, and a power supply that’s built into the charging cord instead of the turntable itself.