The story takes us back to the time when I went to New Jersey for some work and had extra time to explore nearby places. As vinyl records are my first love, I decided to visit nearby record stores in my free time. That’s when I met Scotti, the owner of a record store, who also owned these two turntables. After discussing our love for vinyl and turntables, I asked him if he would allow me to do the Sony PS-LX310BT vs Audio-Technica LP60XBT for my blog readers, and he instantly agreed.
We compared both turntables in terms of the drive mechanism, pre-amp, platter type, tonearm, build, aesthetics, sound quality, price, and additional features. Afterwards, we reached a conclusion that I can’t wait to share with you all through this blog.
Stay tuned to find out which turntable is actually better. Cheers!
Similarities between the two turntables
Like every other turntable, these two also have some similarities. Let’s have a look at them.
Drive mechanism
Both of these turntables are fully automatic belt-drive turntables, which means all you need to do is place the vinyl record on the platter, hit the start button, and the record will start playing right away. Also, once the record is done playing, the turntables automatically reset the tonearm to its resting position, saving you the hassle of doing it manually.
Built-in pre-amp
Usually, there are two types of turntables: ones that come with a built-in phono pre-amp and others that require an external pre-amp. In the case of these two, both the turntables have a built-in pre-amp that saves you from the additional cost of purchasing an external one.
Option to connect an external pre-amp
Both turntables come with a built-in phono pre-amp, allowing you to play vinyl records immediately after connecting powered speakers via an RCA cable or pairing wireless speakers. However, you still have the option to connect an external phono pre-amp just in case you want to enhance your audio experience.
Bluetooth connectivity
As the ‘BT’ in the model name denotes Bluetooth, the Sony PS-LX310BT and Audio-Technica LP60XBT also have the ability to connect to wireless devices such as wireless speakers and headphones. This feature is ideal for people who love the aesthetics of a minimalistic wireless setup.
Platter type
Both of these turntable platters are made up of die-cast aluminium that is rust-proof and lightweight compared to other materials.
Felt slip mat and dust cover
Lastly, these two turntables also come with a felt slip mat that provides cushioning, protects vinyl records from scratches, and reduces friction for a better sound experience. They also have a dust cover to protect the turntables from unnecessary dust and dirt.
Sony PS-LX310BT vs Audio-Technica LP60XBT: Difference between the two
Now, it’s time to discuss what sets these two turntables apart. So, let’s dig in.
Design and Aesthetics
If we compare these two turntables in terms of design, build, and aesthetics, they look very different.
While the Sony has a sleek, modern design with sharp edges and hidden controls, the Audio-Technica features a more retro, boxy, and clunky design with buttons that stand out.
In terms of size and weight, the Audio-Technica is also three inches smaller in width, half an inch shorter, and three pounds lighter than the Sony.
Setup process
As I already mentioned earlier, both of these turntables come with a built-in pre-amp, and if you have a Bluetooth variant of these turntables, all you need is a set of Bluetooth speakers to get you started.
When it comes to setting these turntables with a wired connection, all you need to do is plug in the RCA cables into the receiver and toggle the output select button on the back to “line”. After that, turn on your receivers or speakers, and you are all set.
The only thing that I disliked about the Sony is that the RCA cables are permanently attached at the back. Whereas Audio Technica comes with detachable cables, which is a nice perk in case your setup requires a more extended set of RCA cables.
Lastly, both of these turntables have buttons where you can press start to play and stop to stop. You can also use the up-down button if you want to control the playback manually. Aside from the non-detachable RCA cable on the Sony, both turntables have almost the same setup process.
Speed control option
There are three different sizes of vinyl records: 7-inch, 10-inch, and 12-inch, which are played at three different speeds: 33 ⅓ RPM, 45 RPM, and 78 RPM.
When it comes to these two turntables, both Sony and Audio-Technica have a speed control feature that lets you play records at two different speeds, i.e., 33 ⅓ RPM and 45 RPM.
The only difference is that on the AT-LP60XBT, you have a single knob that lets you select the record size (either 12 inches or 7 inches). The Sony PS-LX310BT, on the other hand, gives you the option of two knobs: one for selecting the record size (12 inches or 7 inches) and another for choosing the speed (33 ⅓ and 45 RPM).
Tonearm and Dust cover
When it comes to tonearms, Sony comes equipped with a J-shaped tonearm, while Audio-Technica comes with a straight tonearm that is heavier than Sony’s.
Also, the Sony comes with a tinted dust cover that actually looks classy and enhances its minimalistic look, while the AT, on the other hand, comes with a transparent dust cover.
Cartridge type
If we talk about the cartridge, the Sony comes with an MM (Moving Magnet) cartridge, while the Audio-Technica comes with a Dual Moving Magnet phono cartridge.
Replaceable stylus
When it comes to the stylus, Audio-Technica offers a replaceable diamond stylus (ATN3600L) option and is compatible with a wide range of cartridges. At the same time, the Sony requires a custom part to be ordered. Apart from that, If you ask me, Audio-Technica has by far the best ecosystem for potential stylus upgrades.
Vinyl to digital audio conversion
There are turntables available that connect to a computer via a USB port and allow you to convert music from your vinyl records to digital MP3 files using software like Audacity.
The benefit of this option is that, even if your vinyl records get damaged in the future, you still have the option to listen to your favourite music.
While comparing these two turntables, we found that the PS-LX310BT offers a USB option to connect to a PC and convert vinyl to digital files, while the Audio-Technica LP60XBT lacks this feature. However, you can still access this feature with the Audio-Technica if you upgrade to the LP60XBT-USB variant.
Sound quality
I know you’ve all been eagerly waiting for this. Well, when it comes to sound quality, these two turntables are the best in their segment.
As I mentioned earlier, these turntables come with a built-in pre-amp. To keep the test fair, I tested both turntables with their built-in pre-amps and left the felt mat as it was. Honestly, there was no noticeable difference in sound quality.
Though Sony does have a slight edge over Audio-Technica when it comes to the pre-amp, it’s mainly due to the volume boost provided by the gain knob at the back.
In my opinion, both of these turntables really sound great.
Price
If we talk about the price, the Sony LX310 only has one variant that comes with Bluetooth connectivity as well as USB port and costs 199.99 USD. The Audio Technica LP60X on the other hand, starts at 129 USD for a wired variant and 199 USD for a Bluetooth variant and goes upto 279 USD for a Bluetooth and USB variant.
Which one is better?
Both are excellent entry-level turntables that are pretty similar and well-suited for people just starting their vinyl journey.
If you prefer aesthetics, want something more user-friendly, and a turntable that sounds slightly better than the AT, is frictionless, and easy to set up, then the Sony PS-LX310BT is the best choice for you.
On the other hand, Audio-Technica LP60XBT is ideal for someone who wants a lighter turntable that is highly flexible, adaptable, and upgradable over time.
Final beat
Both Sony and AT are renowned brands that have provided a range of excellent turntables, and the PS-LX310BT and LP60XBT are among them. These two turntables are already quite popular among people who are just entering the vinyl world or want something that provides good sound quality at an affordable price.
I hope you enjoyed my comparison of these two turntables. Let me know which one you think is the best for your needs in the comments below. Cheers!
Also, a special thanks to Scotti for letting me compare his two TT’s. 🙂
