What To Know
- The AT-LP120 is a great choice for budget-minded audiophiles who are looking for a turntable with a built-in phono preamp and a USB output.
- The SL-1200 is a great choice for audiophiles who are looking for a turntable with excellent performance and a more traditional design.
The world of audiophiles is a vast and ever-evolving one, with new and innovative products emerging all the time. Turntables, in particular, have seen a resurgence in popularity in recent years, as more and more people rediscover the joy of listening to vinyl records. If you’re in the market for a new turntable, two of the most popular options are the Audio Technica AT-LP120 and the Technics SL-1200.
In this blog post, we’ll take a detailed look at these two turntables, comparing their features, performance, and price. By the end, you’ll have all the information you need to make an informed decision about which turntable is right for you.
Design and Build Quality
The Audio Technica AT-LP120 and the Technics SL-1200 are both well-built turntables, but they have different design aesthetics. The AT-LP120 has a more modern look, with a sleek black finish and a minimalist design. The SL-1200, on the other hand, has a more classic look, with a silver finish and a more traditional design.
Both turntables are made from high-quality materials, and they both feel solid and well-built. The AT-LP120 has a die-cast aluminum platter, while the SL-1200 has a heavier zinc platter. Both platters are designed to provide excellent stability and reduce vibration.
Features
The Audio Technica AT-LP120 and the Technics SL-1200 both come with a variety of features, but there are some key differences between the two turntables.
The AT-LP120 comes with a built-in phono preamp, which means that you can connect it directly to your speakers. The SL-1200 does not have a built-in phono preamp, so you will need to purchase one separately if you want to connect it to your speakers.
The AT-LP120 also comes with a USB output, which allows you to connect it to your computer and digitize your vinyl records. The SL-1200 does not have a USB output.
Performance
The Audio Technica AT-LP120 and the Technics SL-1200 both offer excellent performance, but there are some subtle differences between the two turntables.
The AT-LP120 has a lower wow and flutter rating than the SL-1200, which means that it produces less distortion. The AT-LP120 also has a higher signal-to-noise ratio than the SL-1200, which means that it produces less background noise.
The SL-1200, on the other hand, has a higher torque than the AT-LP120, which means that it can start and stop more quickly. The SL-1200 also has a more powerful motor than the AT-LP120, which means that it can handle more demanding records.
Price
The Audio Technica AT-LP120 is typically less expensive than the Technics SL-1200. The AT-LP120 has a list price of $299, while the SL-1200 has a list price of $499.
Which Turntable is Right for You?
The Audio Technica AT-LP120 and the Technics SL-1200 are both excellent turntables, but they have different strengths and weaknesses. The AT-LP120 is a great choice for budget-minded audiophiles who are looking for a turntable with a built-in phono preamp and a USB output. The SL-1200 is a great choice for audiophiles who are looking for a turntable with excellent performance and a more traditional design.
Ultimately, the best way to decide which turntable is right for you is to listen to them both and see which one you prefer.
In a nutshell: The Verdict
The Audio Technica AT-LP120 and the Technics SL-1200 are both excellent turntables, but they have different strengths and weaknesses. The AT-LP120 is a great choice for budget-minded audiophiles who are looking for a turntable with a built-in phono preamp and a USB output. The SL-1200 is a great choice for audiophiles who are looking for a turntable with excellent performance and a more traditional design.
Common Questions and Answers
Q: Which turntable is better for beginners?
A: The Audio Technica AT-LP120 is a great choice for beginners because it is easy to set up and use. It also comes with a built-in phono preamp, which means that you can connect it directly to your speakers.
Q: Which turntable is better for DJs?
A: The Technics SL-1200 is a great choice for DJs because it has a high torque motor and a durable construction. It is also a popular choice for turntablists because it has a variety of features that are useful for scratching and mixing.
Q: Which turntable is better for audiophiles?
A: Both the Audio Technica AT-LP120 and the Technics SL-1200 are excellent choices for audiophiles. The AT-LP120 is a great choice for audiophiles who are looking for a turntable with a built-in phono preamp and a USB output. The SL-1200 is a great choice for audiophiles who are looking for a turntable with excellent performance and a more traditional design.