The Audio-Technica AT-LP120-USB is a professional-grade USB turntable designed for both vinyl enthusiasts and DJs․ It offers a direct-drive motor, variable speed control, and a built-in phono pre-amplifier, making it versatile for digital recording and analog playback․ Its robust construction and user-friendly interface ensure high-quality performance and easy connectivity to computers for digitizing vinyl collections․
1․1 Overview of the Turntable
The Audio-Technica AT-LP120-USB is a direct-drive turntable with a high-torque motor, offering variable speed control (33/45/78 RPM) and a built-in switchable phono pre-amplifier․ Designed for professional and home use, it features USB connectivity for digitizing vinyl records and comes with Audacity software for easy recording․ Its durable, lightweight construction and included VM95E cartridge make it ideal for DJs and vinyl enthusiasts alike․
1․2 Key Features and Benefits
The AT-LP120-USB features a high-torque direct-drive motor, variable speed control (33/45/78 RPM), and a built-in switchable phono pre-amplifier․ Its USB output enables direct connection to computers for digitizing vinyl, and it includes Audacity software for easy recording․ The turntable comes with a VM95E cartridge, ensuring high-quality sound reproduction․ Its robust, lightweight design and professional-grade features make it ideal for both home use and professional DJ settings, offering durability and versatility․
Unboxing and Initial Setup
The AT-LP120-USB comes with a turntable, dust cover, felt mat, platter, counterweight, headshell, cartridge, 45 RPM adapter, stylus light, AC adapter, and quick start guide․ Initial setup involves assembling the cartridge and placing the turntable on a flat, stable surface for optimal performance․
2․1 What’s Included in the Box
The AT-LP120-USB package includes the turntable body, dust cover, felt mat, platter, counterweight, headshell with VM95E cartridge, 45 RPM adapter, stylus target light, dust cover hinges, AC adapter, and a quick start guide․ These components ensure easy setup and optimal performance for both vinyl playback and digital recording via USB connectivity․
2․2 System Requirements for USB Connectivity
The AT-LP120-USB requires a computer with USB 1․1 or higher connectivity and an available USB port․ It is compatible with both Mac (OS X 10․6 or later) and PC (Windows 7 or later) systems․ No additional drivers are needed for connection, and it works seamlessly with Audacity or other recording software for digitizing vinyl records to digital formats like WAV or MP3․
Installation and Operation
Unpack and place the turntable on a flat surface․ Connect via USB to your computer, ensuring proper installation․ Follow the quick start guide for basic operation․
3․1 Assembling the Turntable
Begin by carefully unboxing and inspecting all components․ Place the turntable on a flat, stable surface․ Attach the belt to the motor and pulley, ensuring proper alignment․ Install the platter and secure it tightly․ Next, attach the headshell with the pre-installed VM95E cartridge to the tonearm․ Finally, connect the counterweight and balance the tonearm according to the manual’s instructions for optimal performance․
3․2 Initial Setup and Calibration
Place the turntable on a flat, stable surface and ensure all components are securely connected․ Attach the motor, platter, and tonearm according to the manual․ Adjust the counterweight to balance the tonearm, ensuring proper tracking force․ Set the anti-skate control to match your cartridge’s weight․ Finally, connect the power supply and test the turntable to ensure smooth operation and accurate speed control․
3․3 Connecting the Turntable to a Computer via USB
Connect the AT-LP120-USB to your computer using the included USB cable․ No additional drivers are required for Mac or PC․ Plug the USB cable into your computer’s USB port and ensure the turntable is powered on․ Open your recording software (e․g․, Audacity) and select the AT-LP120-USB as the input device․ This setup allows direct digital recording from vinyl to your computer․
Using the Built-in Phono Pre-Amplifier
The AT-LP120-USB features a built-in switchable phono pre-amplifier, enabling direct connection to amplifiers or speakers without external equipment․ This versatile feature enhances compatibility with various audio systems․
4․1 Enabling and Disabling the Pre-Amplifier
To enable the built-in phono pre-amplifier, locate the switch on the rear panel and set it to the “PHONO” position․ For disabling, switch it to “LINE․” This feature allows direct connection to amplifiers or speakers, eliminating the need for external pre-amplification․ Enable when using a phono input and disable for line-level connections․ Consult the manual for optimal setup based on your audio system configuration․
4․2 Adjusting the Gain Settings
The gain settings on the AT-LP120-USB can be adjusted to optimize audio levels for recording․ Locate the gain control knob on the rear panel and turn it clockwise or counterclockwise to increase or decrease the gain․ Ensure the levels are set appropriately to avoid distortion and achieve clear, balanced sound․ Refer to the manual for specific guidance on setting optimal levels for your recordings․
Recording Software Setup
Setting up recording software like Audacity is essential for digitizing vinyl․ The AT-LP120-USB is compatible with both Mac and PC, ensuring easy recording․ Follow the software guide for installation and configuration to start transferring your vinyl collection to digital files seamlessly․
5․1 Choosing the Right Software (e․g․, Audacity)
Selecting the right software is crucial for recording vinyl․ Audacity, a free and widely-used program, is ideal for digitizing records with the AT-LP120-USB․ It supports both Mac and PC, offering features like noise reduction and audio editing․ Download Audacity from its official website to ensure compatibility and ease of use during the recording process․ This software is recommended for its simplicity and effectiveness․
5․2 Installing and Configuring the Software
Download Audacity from its official website and install it on your computer․ Connect the AT-LP120-USB to your PC or Mac using the included USB cable․ Open Audacity, go to preferences, and select the AT-LP120-USB as the recording device․ Set the sample rate and bit depth according to your needs․ Ensure the software recognizes the turntable to begin recording vinyl tracks seamlessly․
Transferring Vinyl Records to Digital Files
The AT-LP120-USB enables easy transfer of vinyl records to digital files via USB connection, using software like Audacity for high-quality recording and preserving your vinyl collection․
6․1 Step-by-Step Guide to Recording
Connect the AT-LP120-USB to your computer via USB, install recording software like Audacity, and select the turntable as the recording device․ Open Audacity, start a new project, and enable recording․ Place the record on the turntable, cue the needle, and press record in Audacity․ Once done, stop recording, edit if needed, and save as MP3 or WAV․ This process ensures high-quality digital files from your vinyl collection․
6․2 Editing and Saving Digital Files
After recording, use software like Audacity to edit the digital file by trimming silence, adjusting levels, or splitting tracks․ Add metadata such as artist and album names for organization․ Export the edited file in formats like MP3 or WAV, choosing desired quality settings․ Save the file to your computer or external storage for easy access and future playback․
Maintenance and Troubleshooting
Regularly clean the stylus and platter, check for dust, and ensure proper tonearm balance․ Consult the user manual for troubleshooting common issues and adjustments․
7․1 Cleaning and Caring for the Turntable
Regular cleaning is essential for maintaining the AT-LP120-USB’s performance․ Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe the platter and dust cover․ Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive materials․ For the stylus, gently brush with a carbon fiber brush to remove dust․ Check the tonearm for balance and ensure the cartridge is secure․ Refer to the manual for detailed care instructions to extend the lifespan of your turntable․
7․2 Common Issues and Solutions
For connectivity issues, ensure the USB cable is securely connected and drivers are installed correctly․ If audio is distorted, check the cartridge alignment and tracking force․ For skipping or poor record playback, clean the stylus gently with a soft brush․ Refer to the manual for troubleshooting steps to resolve common problems and maintain optimal performance․
Accessories and Upgrades
The AT-LP120-USB comes with essential accessories like a USB cable, adapter cables, and a dust cover․ Upgrades include replacing the phono cartridge for enhanced sound quality and performance․
8․1 Recommended Accessories for the AT-LP120-USB
Essential accessories include a high-quality USB cable, adapter cables, and a dust cover to protect the turntable․ Additionally, upgrading the phono cartridge or headshell can enhance sound quality․ A stylus target light improves visibility, while an isolation mat reduces vibration․ These accessories ensure optimal performance, longevity, and versatility for both home and professional use․
8․2 Upgrading the Phono Cartridge
Upgrading the phono cartridge enhances sound quality and performance․ The AT-LP120-USB comes with the AT-VM95E cartridge, but users can opt for higher-end models like the AT-VM95EN for improved clarity․ Ensure compatibility and proper installation to avoid damage․ Refer to the manual or consult Audio-Technica support for guidance on cartridge replacement and maintenance․
Compatibility and Connectivity Options
The AT-LP120-USB offers seamless connectivity with both Mac and PC via USB and is compatible with external speakers or amplifiers through its analog outputs, ensuring versatile use․
9․1 Using the Turntable with Mac and PC
The AT-LP120-USB seamlessly connects to both Mac and PC via USB, requiring no additional drivers․ It is fully compatible with Audacity software, enabling easy digital transfers of vinyl records․ The turntable’s plug-and-play functionality ensures a straightforward setup process for users across different operating systems, making it a versatile choice for home and professional environments alike․
9․2 Connecting to External Speakers or Amplifiers
The AT-LP120-USB can be connected to external speakers or amplifiers using its RCA output jacks․ Ensure the turntable’s built-in phono pre-amplifier is enabled for proper signal transmission․ Use high-quality RCA cables to connect the turntable to your external audio system․ This setup allows for enhanced sound quality and flexibility in integrating the turntable into your home or professional audio setup․
Warranty and Support
The AT-LP120-USB is backed by a one-year warranty․ For support, contact Audio-Technica through their official website or authorized dealers․ Register your product for extended assistance․
10․1 Warranty Information
The Audio-Technica AT-LP120-USB is covered by a one-year limited warranty from the date of purchase․ This warranty covers manufacturing defects and ensures repairs or replacements at no cost․ For any issues, contact your local Audio-Technica dealer․ Missing or damaged items should be reported immediately to the dealer for assistance․
10․2 Contacting Audio-Technica Support
For assistance with the AT-LP120-USB, contact Audio-Technica support via phone, email, or their official website․ Visit www․audio-technica․com for detailed contact information and support resources․ Their team is available to address any queries or issues related to your turntable․
Advanced Features for Professional Use
The AT-LP120-USB offers variable speed control (33/45/78 RPM), a direct-drive motor, and a built-in phono pre-amplifier, making it ideal for professional DJ and studio applications․
11․1 Variable Speed Control (33/45/78 RPM)
The AT-LP120-USB features adjustable speed settings of 33, 45, and 78 RPM, catering to various vinyl formats․ This versatility is essential for professional DJs and record enthusiasts, ensuring precise playback control․ The direct-drive motor provides high torque for consistent speed stability, minimizing pitch variations during performances or recording sessions․
11․2 Using the Turntable in DJ Settings
The AT-LP120-USB excels in DJ environments, offering professional-grade durability and performance․ Its direct-drive motor ensures consistent rotation, while adjustable torque enables precise control․ The turntable’s design, with features like a target light and robust construction, supports seamless transitions and scratching․ Suitable for both analog and digital setups, it’s a versatile tool for professional DJs and performers seeking reliability and high-quality sound reproduction․
User Manual and Additional Resources
The official user manual for the AT-LP120-USB is available for free download from Audio-Technica’s website, providing detailed instructions for setup, operation, and troubleshooting․ Additional resources include online tutorials, compatibility guides, and software manuals to enhance your experience with the turntable․
12․1 Navigating the Official User Manual
The official user manual for the AT-LP120-USB is accessible on Audio-Technica’s website․ It provides comprehensive instructions for installation, operation, and troubleshooting․ The manual is organized into sections, including introduction, installation, operation, and maintenance․ Detailed diagrams and step-by-step guides ensure easy navigation․ Users can also find information on software setup and connectivity options․ The manual is a valuable resource for maximizing the turntable’s functionality and resolving common issues effectively․
12․2 Online Tutorials and Guides
Supplement your understanding with online tutorials and guides available on Audio-Technica’s website and platforms like YouTube․ These resources offer step-by-step instructions for setting up, using, and troubleshooting the AT-LP120-USB․ From basic operations to advanced features, these guides cater to both beginners and experienced users, ensuring optimal use of the turntable’s capabilities, including digitizing vinyl and optimizing sound quality for professional-grade results․
The Audio-Technica AT-LP120-USB is a versatile, high-performance turntable ideal for both professionals and casual users․ Its robust design, ease of use, and advanced features make it a standout choice for digitizing vinyl collections and enjoying analog sound with modern convenience, offering exceptional value for its price and capabilities․
13․1 Summary of the AT-LP120-USB’s Capabilities
The Audio-Technica AT-LP120-USB is a professional-grade turntable offering direct-drive motor, variable speed control (33/45/78 RPM), and a built-in phono pre-amplifier․ It supports USB connectivity for digitizing vinyl to digital files and is compatible with both Mac and PC․ Designed for durability and ease of use, it combines robust construction with advanced features, making it ideal for vinyl enthusiasts and professionals alike, including DJs and audiophiles seeking high-quality performance and versatility․
13․2 Recommendations for Potential Buyers
The AT-LP120-USB is ideal for vinyl enthusiasts and DJs seeking a versatile, professional-grade turntable․ It’s perfect for those looking to digitize their record collection or enjoy high-quality analog playback․ With its robust build, user-friendly interface, and advanced features, it’s a great choice for both newcomers and professionals․ The included manual ensures easy setup, making it a worthwhile investment for anyone passionate about vinyl and digital recording․