Audio-Technica AT-LP3BK Turntable Automatic Belt-Drive Black

Product Information

I began the test with the LP3 pushing music through its internal phono amplifier. This configuration is ok and perfectly usable and, as such, will get any analogue fan underway in terms of playing vinyl. In critical terms, though, sound was a little indistinct and muffled at the bottom end with a rolled off suite of upper frequencies that hampered detail. As a money saving option, the built-in unit is acceptable and will produce an admirable sound for the price but an upgrade to an external unit is top priority.

If its performance wasn’t so thoroughly enjoyable and the price so tempting, we’d tell you to avoid the AT-LP3 and invest more in a bunch of separate components. It’s a fully automatic turntable, which means you don’t even have to lift the needle yourself – a simple button jab will return the tonearm to its starting position.If you are connecting to a specified PHONO input on a stereo receiver or an external RIAA preamp, then move the switch on the rear of the turntable to the PHONO position, which disengages the turntable’s internal preamp. I feel obligated to start this post by saying I am NOT an audiophile and won’t pretend to be one. I just wanted to post a brief review of my current TT set up since I did not find any info about my TT on here after a brief search. I thought this might help others who are new to the vinyl community. Here’s the story: Set the preamp switch on the rear of the turntable to correspond with the device you are connecting to.

Carefully place the platter on the turntable’s center spindle, and make certain the platter is fully seated on the spindle. Connects wirelessly to speakers and other devices equipped with Bluetooth wireless technology or to wired audio systems and powered speakers via included dual RCA output cable AT LP3 offers a full automatic in handling, meaning that the turntable will find the first groove on the record by itself and you will not have to worry if you have left the needle in the groove after listening to the entire side of the record. The tonearm will then lift and return to the stand. With the ease of use, the AT-LP3 also has an interesting look and it will easily fit into any interior design just like the very popular and award-winning AT-LP5 turntable.Indicates whether MUID is transferred to ANID, a cookie used for advertising. Clarity doesn't use ANID and so this is always set to 0. Verdict: Despite suffering from the odd sonic and design issue, the AT-LP3 remains a solid bet for any beginner or budget-level buyer. Featuring fully automatic operation, a built-in phono preamp, removeable universal headshell and replaceable stylus, this Audio-Technica turntable is easy to set up and use, making it an ideal choice for beginners or those looking to level up their listening experience. Play 33⅓ & 45 RPM records your way, experimenting with different styli as you begin to discover your personal audio preferences. Although there are sonic issues, this low cost turntable provides a wealth of features and, in sub-budget terms, is put together fairly well. The Moving Coil option is a puzzle and there’s no USB option but the automatic play system works perfectly every time and the internal phono amplifier could be a life saver to those users on a budget. More importantly, it’s a valid and recommended choice when you compare it to the Crosleys and Ions of this world. For any beginner to the world of vinyl, the Audio Technica AT-LP3 is a steady front end for any sub-budget hi-fi system.