Vinyl records have been making a roaring comeback in recent years. If you, like me, have recently hopped onto this vintage music-playing method’s bandwagon, you’re probably wondering which record player to buy.
After extensive research, I’ve come to the conclusion that the best choice of entry-level record player comes down to the Sony PS-LX310BT vs. the Audio Technica LP60XBT.
Read on to find out more about the specifications of these record players, as well as their similarities and differences. After you’ve finished this guide, you’ll be able to make an informed decision as to which of these record players is the right one for you.
Sony PS-LX310BT vs. Audio Technica LP60XBT Overview
Both of these fully automatic, belt-drive record players can play 33-⅓/45 RPM records.
They have similar designs and use virtually the same materials in their construction, with the Sony PS-LX310BT being slightly larger and heavier.
The Sony PS-LX310BT and the Audio Technica LP60XBT differ in their connectivity options. The former has Bluetooth and USB connectivity, while the latter is only Bluetooth-enabled.
As for sound quality, the Sony PS-LX310BT performs better with a wow and flutter score of 0.1.
What Is Sony PS-LX310BT?
The Sony PS-LX310BT is an entry-level record player equipped with Bluetooth and USB connectivity.
It helps you bridge the gap between vintage vinyl and your modern devices such as computers and speakers.
What Is Audio Technica LP60XBT?
The Audio Technica LP60XBT is a Bluetooth-enabled record player with a compact, portable design.
It’s also considered an entry-level option that’s suitable for those who are buying a turntable for the first time.
How Are They Similar?
In terms of their mode of operation, both these devices are fully automatic, with a belt drive that can play 33-⅓ and 45 RPM records. Both the Sony PS-LX310BT and the Audio Technica LP60XBT have built-in phono preamp. Unfortunately, they both don’t come with pitch control.
When it comes to connectivity, both devices have built-in Bluetooth.
As far as materials are concerned, both the Sony PS-LX310BT and the Audio Technica LP60XBT have an aluminum platter and a plastic plinth. Additionally, they both have straight, aluminum tonearms that can be automatically operated with a button.
Both devices also come with a plastic dust cover to protect their components when not in use.
How Are They Different?
One difference between the Sony PS-LX310BT and the Audio Technica LP60XBT lies in their connectivity features. The former allows for a USB connection to an external device, while the latter is limited to only Bluetooth.
Additionally, the Sony PS-LX310BT holds a slight edge when it comes to sound clarity thanks to its lower wow and flutter score.
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Another difference between the two devices is their size. The Sony PS-LX310BT is relatively bulkier and heavier than the Audio Technica LP60XBT.
Here are the key specifications of the Sony PS-LX310BT and the Audio Technica LP60XBT.
Audio Technica LP60XBT | Sony PS-LX310BT | |
Operation | Fully Automatic | Fully Automatic |
Drive Type | Belt | Belt |
Speed | 33-⅓ / 45 RPM | 33-⅓ / 45 RPM |
Pitch Control | No | No |
Phono Preamp | Built-in | Built-in |
Bluetooth | Yes | Yes |
USB Output | No | Yes |
Audio Cable | Detachable | Attached |
Materials | ||
Platter | Aluminum | Aluminum |
Plinth | Plastic | Plastic |
Tone Arm Material | Aluminum | Aluminum |
Tone Arm Shape | Straight | Straight |
Tone Arm Mechanism | Automated | Automated |
Audio Specifications | ||
Wow & Flutter | 0.25 | 0.1 |
Signal to Noise Ratio | 50 | 50 |
Dimensions | ||
Depth (Inches) | 14.7 | 14.5 |
Width (Inches) | 14.15 | 17 |
Height (Inches) | 3.84 | 4.3 |
Weight (Pounds) | 5.73 | 7 |
What Is Better About Sony PS-LX310BT?
In terms of their design and construction, both the Sony PS-LX310BT and the Audio Technica LP60XBT look great in their own right. They have modernistic designs and will contribute nicely to the aesthetic of your home.
The Sony PS-LX310BT has a slight edge in the fact that it has a sleeker design. Additionally, its buttons have a more premium feel to them than those of the Audio Technica LP60XBT.
Moving on to these devices’ connectivity options, the Sony PS-LX310BT comes out as the winner. This is because it has a USB output feature, giving you more flexibility when you wish to connect your device to an external speaker or to your computer.
Additionally, many have found the Audio Technica LP60XBT’s Bluetooth function to be unreliable at times. The main issue with it is that the connection is inconsistent. This sometimes leads to it skipping parts of the record you’re playing.
The Audio Technica LP60XBT does give you the option to connect it to other devices using RCA cables. However, this mode of connection is quite outdated and most modern devices don’t support it.
Furthermore, the Audio Technica LP60XBT has a relatively less refined wow and flutter score than the Sony PS-LX310BT. This means that it’s less consistent when it comes to producing clear and undistorted audio.
What Is Better About Audio Technica LP60XBT?
On the other hand, the Audio Technica LP60XBT is relatively smaller and lighter than the Sony PS-LX310BT. This means that it’ll take up less space, and is more portable than the Sony PS-LX310BT.
Additionally, buying the Audio Technica LP60XBT will require you to dig significantly less deep into your pockets.
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Both the Sony PS-LX310BT and the Audio Technica LP60XBT are considered in the category of entry level turntables. Therefore, some will find it hard to justify the Sony PS-LX310BT’s higher price tag.
Who Should Get the Audio Technica LP60XBT (and Why)?
The Audio Technica LP60XBT is an excellent option if you’re in search of an entry level record player.
Additionally, If you’re looking for a budget device that will allow you to wirelessly connect to a speaker and enjoy your favorite records, then the Audio Technica LP60XBT is the way to go.
Whether you’re looking to play 33-⅓ or 45 RPM records, the Audio Technica LP60XBT will get the job done.
Who Should Get the Sony PS-LX310BT (and Why?)
The Sony PS-LX310BT is another great choice for an entry level record player.
If you’re willing to pay a little extra for a device with a slightly more premium feel and USB connectivity, the Sony PS-LX310BT is the one for you.
The heftier price tag also gives you a device with superior sound quality.