Audio-Technica Launches First Semi-Automatic Direct Drive AT-LP8x Turntable
If you’ve been waiting for Audio-Technica to come out with a semi-automatic direct-drive turntable, your wishes have come true. The new AT-LP8X is the brand’s first-ever semi-automatic model and is the new flagship turntable that’s supposed to deliver excellent sound with features including a VM95 Series cartridge, adjustable vertical tracking angle (VTA), a newly designed motor and other improvements.
If you’re wondering what the advantage of having a semi-automatic operation is, it raises the tonearm off the record and stops the motor when one side of the vinyl is done, protecting the stylus from damage. The AT-LP8X comes with the AT-VM95E Dual Magnet phono cartridge pre-mounted onto Audio-Technica’s new AT-L10 removable headshell for a more convenient installation.
The AT-VM95E cartridge comes with an elliptical stylus but is also compatible with any VM95 replacement stylus.
The adjustable VTA optimises the J-shaped aluminium tonearm for various phono cartridges, and the AT-LP8X provides adjustments for anti-skating and tracking force as well. A sub-counterweight is included so that cartridges between 14g and 23.5G can be used. The turntable can play 33-1/3, 45, and 78 RPM records.
Inside, there’s a new low-torque direct drive DC motor that has a speed sensor system to ensure accurate speed stability. The 1-inch thick rubber-damped, anti-resonance, die-cast aluminium platter is the most substantial platter offered on an Audio-Technica turntable to date, and along with the MDF box plinth, adjustable feet and 2.5mm rubber mat, it will help reduce resonance and allow for more accurate vinyl playback.
The new internal switching power supply has been optimised for audio use and helps to ensure minimal noise in the signal chain. Additional features include a detachable RCA cable, a removable hinged dust cover and a 45-RPM adapter.
The Audio-Technica AT-LP8X is priced at $2,199 in Australia and will be available around mid-October 2024.
Visit Audio-Technica for more information
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Cheryl Tan
After diving down the custom IEMs rabbit hole since she was 18, Cheryl has embarked on a long journey trying out as many audio products as possible ever since. She’s still waiting for the day a company can create a pair of true wireless earbuds that sound just as good as wired earphones.
Posted in: Hi-Fi
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