While this is a shortfall of the design, it’s only noticeable if you compare the LP5X against pricier rivals and better damped direct-drive designs, the likes of the Technics SL-1500 or Reloop Turn 5 for example.

The platter sits atop a tapered spindle, beneath which is the single rotor of the direct-drive motor. If you’re new to this, the Audio-Technica manual gives comprehensive instructions which (spelling mistakes aside) should be easy to follow.

Designed for the discerning modern audiophile, the AT-LP5X boasts a built-in, switchable phono pre-amplifier, adjustable anti-skate control, rugged construction, and USB connectivity for digital archiving. The most unlikely of which is that the motor has been simplified (read weakened) over the previous model, and may struggle to maintain such a high RPM. But it must be said that this is an excellent demonstration of what the VM95 is capable of, even with one of the better styli mounted, where things clean up still further and the sound opens up in a very pleasing way. The LP5X keeps the direct drive aspect but adds 78rpm support (which, as we will cover is more than a random box ticking feature here). Audio-Technica promises that, in tandem with precision-machined platter, you should avoid any tracking issues as a result.

It is only fair to point out though that the competition that the Audio Technica now faces is both more numerous and and better than what squared up to the original LP5. Speed change is by a knob on the front left of the turntable and is very positive in action, this also puts the unit into a standby mode, to switch the turntable off ccompletely you will have to switch off at the supply socket or unplug it. From a personal standpoint I am not really comfortable enough evaluating the condition of a used turntable (like an old Technics) and discerning whether or not it would be a wise purchase.Once things have stabilised there is no audible motor noise on 33 or 45, though I noticed a faint chugging on 78 which suggests the deck was struggling to hold precise speed.

Part of the reason is that the 140 includes a large power supply, built into the chassis whereas the LP5x expels its power supply as a wall wart. Humility, passion, creativity and expertise in sound are the core values behind Audio-Technica’s legacy, greatly inspired by its founder - whose imprint on the company’s philosophy is still felt today. This choice is not accidental; the combination of platter and mat (or lack thereof) has an impact on the presentation (your friendly reminder that one of the joys or annoyances of record players - your mileage may vary - is that everything makes a difference) and the choice by Audio Technica is seemingly a deliberate one. There’s also now a new external power supply to further remove unwanted sounds from the signal chain.The motor is An 8-pole, 3-phase brushless design with quartz speed control and electronic braking, achieved as in most direct-drive turntables by a quick backward spin of the platter for half an RPM or so. br>
Designed for clarity
With its direct drive motor, the AT-LP5X gives superb pitch stability. The AT95 was a talented enough device but the VM95 is able to extract more information and display a greater level of three dimensionality while it does it.

They were dull as dishwater, suppressed any attempt at dynamics and brought a din of their own to the performance. At Smart Home Sounds, we are leading Home Audio Visual Specialists and one of the UK's largest Sonos dealers. The AT-LP5X is equipped with a built-in switchable phono pre-amplifier, making it highly versatile for a wide variety of audio setups.

The good news is you don't need to follow any additional steps to activate your extended 6-year warranty.