Audio-technica At-lp120x Vs Pioneer Plx 500
What To Know
- If you’re looking for a feature-packed turntable with a built-in phono preamp and a wide speed range, the AT-LP120X is a great choice.
- If you prefer a turntable with a more modern design, user-replaceable cartridge, and exceptional sound quality, the PLX-500 is an excellent option.
- The AT-LP120X produces a more balanced and detailed sound, while the PLX-500 provides a warmer and more dynamic sound.
In the world of vinyl enthusiasts, the search for the perfect turntable is an endless pursuit. Two contenders that consistently grace the wish lists of audiophiles are the Audio-Technica AT-LP120X and the Pioneer PLX-500. Both offer a compelling blend of features, performance, and value, but which one emerges as the undisputed champion? Let’s embark on an in-depth comparison to uncover the strengths and weaknesses of each turntable.
Design and Construction
Audio-Technica AT-LP120X
The AT-LP120X exudes a classic aesthetic with its sleek black finish and sturdy construction. Its MDF plinth provides excellent vibration isolation, while the aluminum platter ensures stability and precision. The tonearm is made of aluminum and features a universal mount for easy cartridge upgrades.
Pioneer PLX-500
The PLX-500 boasts a more modern design with its silver-gray finish and sleek lines. Its heavy-duty chassis and vibration-dampening feet offer exceptional stability. The tonearm is made of carbon fiber, which is lightweight and rigid, providing excellent tracking accuracy.
Cartridge
Audio-Technica AT-LP120X
The AT-LP120X comes equipped with the AT-VM95E cartridge, which delivers a balanced and detailed sound. It’s a great all-around cartridge that suits a wide range of music genres. However, it’s worth noting that the cartridge is not user-replaceable, which may limit upgrade options in the future.
Pioneer PLX-500
The PLX-500 comes with the Ortofon OM-10 cartridge, which is known for its warm and dynamic sound. It’s a great choice for vinyl enthusiasts who prefer a more musical and forgiving sound. The cartridge is also user-replaceable, allowing for easy upgrades down the line.
Features
Audio-Technica AT-LP120X
The AT-LP120X is packed with features, including a built-in phono preamp, 33/45/78 RPM speed control, and a USB output for easy digital conversion. It also has a strobe light for precise speed adjustment and a headphone jack for private listening.
Pioneer PLX-500
The PLX-500 offers a more streamlined feature set. It has 33/45 RPM speed control, a USB output, and a headphone jack. While it lacks a built-in phono preamp, it does have a dedicated line output for connecting to an external phono stage.
Performance
Audio-Technica AT-LP120X
The AT-LP120X delivers impressive sound quality with its low noise floor and accurate tracking. It produces a well-balanced and detailed sound with excellent clarity and separation. The built-in phono preamp is convenient but may not offer the same level of performance as an external unit.
Pioneer PLX-500
The PLX-500 provides an equally impressive sonic experience. Its carbon fiber tonearm and Ortofon cartridge produce a warm and dynamic sound with exceptional tracking accuracy. The USB output allows for easy digital conversion, but the lack of a built-in phono preamp may be a drawback for some users.
Price and Value
The Audio-Technica AT-LP120X is typically priced around $250-$300, while the Pioneer PLX-500 usually retails for $350-$400. Both turntables offer excellent value for their respective price ranges.
The Final Verdict
Choosing between the Audio-Technica AT-LP120X and the Pioneer PLX-500 ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences.
If you’re looking for a feature-packed turntable with a built-in phono preamp and a wide speed range, the AT-LP120X is a great choice.
If you prefer a turntable with a more modern design, user-replaceable cartridge, and exceptional sound quality, the PLX-500 is an excellent option.
Regardless of your choice, both the AT-LP120X and the PLX-500 are exceptional turntables that will provide years of musical enjoyment.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which turntable has better sound quality?
Both the AT-LP120X and PLX-500 offer excellent sound quality. The AT-LP120X produces a more balanced and detailed sound, while the PLX-500 provides a warmer and more dynamic sound.
2. Which turntable is more versatile?
The AT-LP120X is more versatile with its built-in phono preamp and 78 RPM speed. However, the PLX-500 has a user-replaceable cartridge, which allows for greater customization options.
3. Which turntable is better for beginners?
The AT-LP120X is a great choice for beginners due to its ease of use and built-in phono preamp. The PLX-500 may require a bit more setup and knowledge, but it offers exceptional sound quality and upgradeability.