Audio-Technica AT-LP5X Turntable launched in India for ₹66,340

Audio-Technica's latest turntable, the AT-LP5X, has arrived in India. It's the follow-up to the much-loved AT-LP5, and the brand has upped the ante with some new features, including a brand-new AT-VM95E Dual Moving Magnet cartridge.

The AT-VM95E comes pre-installed on an AT-HS6 headshell, promising solid audio quality right out of the box. For those looking to tweak their setup further, the stylus assembly is upgradeable. A major addition is the quartz-locked DC servo direct drive motor, designed for low-noise operation and quick start-up. It supports 33, 45, and now 78 RPM speeds—though spinning 78s will require the AT-VM95SP stylus, sold separately.

The tonearm retains the signature J-shaped design from the AT-LP5, drawing inspiration from Audio-Technica’s classic turntables of the ’60s and ’70s. It features a metallic gimbal suspension system with precision bearings for smooth operation. An adjustable dynamic anti-skate control helps keep the tonearm steady, preventing unwanted movement for more accurate playback.

The AT-LP5X is built with anti-vibration damping materials and heavy mass internal inserts, reducing unwanted resonances for cleaner playback. It sports a matte black finish. It sports a precision-machined aluminium platter for smooth and stable rotation. 

It comes with a built-in switchable Moving Magnet and Moving Coil phono preamp, making it easy to connect directly to a computer, home stereo, powered speakers, or other devices without a dedicated phono stage. Despite its vintage-inspired design, this turntable is built for the digital age. A USB output lets you digitise your vinyl collection, and Audio-Technica includes both a PC connection cable and a link to free Audacity software, allowing records to be converted into MP3, WAV, and other formats.

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The turntable offers flexibility with MM/MC cartridge compatibility, making it easy to upgrade to a moving coil setup with additional gear. One key upgrade from its predecessor is the external power supply, designed to reduce signal chain noise for cleaner audio playback.

This plug-and-play setup lets you start spinning records straight out of the box. Included in the box are a 5mm Audio-Technica heavy damping mat, dust cover, and RCA cable. 

The AT-LP5X is priced at ₹66,340.