The Audio Technica LP60 is a popular and highly-regarded entry-level turntable that has won the hearts of many vinyl enthusiasts. With its sleek design, ease of use, and affordability, it’s no wonder why it’s a top choice for those looking to dip their toes into the world of vinyl collecting. However, one question that often arises among new vinyl enthusiasts is: does the Audio Technica LP60 need an amplifier?
Understanding the Basics of Turntable Audio
Before we dive into the answer, it’s essential to understand the basics of turntable audio. When you play a record on a turntable, the needle (or stylus) picks up the vibrations from the grooves on the record and converts them into electrical signals. These signals are then sent to a phono stage or a preamplifier, which amplifies and equalizes the sound to prepare it for playback through your speakers.
In traditional home stereo systems, the phono stage or preamplifier is usually built into the amplifier or receiver. However, many modern turntables, including the Audio Technica LP60, have a built-in phono stage. This means that the turntable itself is capable of amplifying and equalizing the audio signal, but only to a certain extent.
The LP60’s Built-in Phono Stage: A Mixed Blessing
The LP60’s built-in phono stage is a convenient feature that allows you to connect the turntable directly to your amplifier or receiver without the need for an external phono stage. This can be a blessing for those who are new to vinyl or don’t want to invest in additional equipment. However, the built-in phono stage is not without its limitations.
The LP60’s phono stage is designed to provide a basic level of amplification and equalization, which may not be sufficient for high-quality audio playback. The built-in phono stage can also introduce noise and distortion into the audio signal, affecting the overall sound quality.
When the Built-in Phono Stage Falls Short
There are several scenarios where the LP60’s built-in phono stage may not be enough to provide optimal audio playback:
- High-gain cartridges: If you’re using a high-gain cartridge, such as the Ortofon 2M Red, you may find that the built-in phono stage can’t provide enough amplification to drive the cartridge properly.
- Sensitive speakers: If you have sensitive speakers that require more power to produce optimal sound, the LP60’s built-in phono stage may not be able to provide enough juice.
- Long cable runs: If you have a long cable run between the turntable and your amplifier or receiver, signal loss and degradation can occur, requiring additional amplification to compensate.
Do You Need an External Amplifier with the LP60?
So, do you need an external amplifier with the Audio Technica LP60? The answer depends on your specific setup and preferences.
If you’re using the LP60 with a low-to-mid-range amplifier or receiver, and you’re happy with the sound quality, you may not need an external amplifier. The built-in phono stage on the LP60 is sufficient for casual listening and can provide decent sound quality.
However, if you’re looking to extract the best possible sound quality from your records, or if you’re using high-gain cartridges or sensitive speakers, an external amplifier or phono stage is highly recommended.
Benefits of an External Amplifier
Using an external amplifier with the LP60 can provide several benefits:
- Improved sound quality: An external amplifier can provide a cleaner, more accurate signal with better dynamic range and frequency response.
- Increased gain: An external amplifier can provide additional gain to drive high-gain cartridges or sensitive speakers.
- Noise reduction: An external amplifier can help reduce noise and hum, resulting in a quieter and more immersive listening experience.
Choosing the Right External Amplifier for the LP60
If you decide to invest in an external amplifier for your LP60, there are a few things to consider:
- Gain: Look for an amplifier with adjustable gain to accommodate different cartridge types and speaker sensitivities.
- Frequency response: Choose an amplifier with a flat frequency response to ensure accurate sound reproduction.
- Noise floor: Opt for an amplifier with a low noise floor to minimize hum and hiss.
- Input impedance: Ensure the amplifier’s input impedance matches the output impedance of the LP60’s phono stage.
Some popular external amplifiers for the LP60 include the Schiit Mani, the Pro-Ject Phono Box, and the Cambridge Audio CP2.
Conclusion: Amplifying Your Vinyl Experience
In conclusion, the Audio Technica LP60 is a fantastic turntable that can provide great sound quality, but it may benefit from an external amplifier in certain situations. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your sound quality or simply want more flexibility in your setup, an external amplifier can be a valuable addition to your vinyl rig.
Remember, the LP60’s built-in phono stage is not a one-size-fits-all solution. By understanding the limitations of the built-in phono stage and investing in an external amplifier, you can unlock the full potential of your vinyl collection and take your listening experience to the next level.
| Turntable | Built-in Phono Stage | External Amplifier Recommended |
|---|---|---|
| Audio Technica LP60 | Yes | Yes, for high-gain cartridges or sensitive speakers |
By considering the specific needs of your setup and investing in the right equipment, you can spin your tunes with confidence and enjoy the warm, rich sound of vinyl like never before.
What is the Audio Technica LP60?
The Audio Technica LP60 is a popular belt-driven turntable designed for playing vinyl records. It’s a versatile and affordable option for music enthusiasts who want to experience the warm, rich sound of analog music. The LP60 is known for its sleek design, easy operation, and high-quality sound reproduction.
The LP60 is a great option for those who are new to vinyl collecting or looking to upgrade from a basic turntable. It features a die-cast aluminum platter, a precision-machined stainless steel spindle, and a balanced tonearm with a fixed tracking force. These features ensure that your vinyl records are played back with accuracy and clarity.
Does the Audio Technica LP60 need an amplifier?
The Audio Technica LP60 has a built-in phono amplifier, which means it can connect directly to a receiver, amplifier, or powered speakers. However, the built-in amplifier is designed to boost the phono signal to a line level, but it’s not a power amplifier. This means it won’t provide enough power to drive speakers on its own.
If you want to connect the LP60 to passive speakers, you’ll need a separate amplifier or receiver to power them. Alternatively, you can connect the LP60 to active speakers or a soundbar that has a built-in amplifier. In this case, the LP60’s built-in phono amplifier will still come in handy, as it will prepare the signal for the active speakers or soundbar.
Can I connect the Audio Technica LP60 to a computer?
Yes, you can connect the Audio Technica LP60 to a computer using a USB cable. The LP60 has a built-in USB output that allows you to digitize your vinyl records and transfer them to your computer. This is a great way to create digital backups of your vinyl collection or edit the audio files using software.
To connect the LP60 to your computer, simply plug in the USB cable and install the necessary software drivers. You can then use audio editing software to capture and edit the audio signal from the LP60. Keep in mind that the LP60’s built-in phono amplifier is still active when connecting via USB, so you may need to adjust the gain settings in your software.
What is the difference between a phono amplifier and a power amplifier?
A phono amplifier, also known as a phono stage, is a type of amplifier designed specifically for turntables. Its purpose is to boost the low-level signal from the turntable’s cartridge to a level that’s strong enough to drive a line-level input on a receiver or amplifier. A phono amplifier is typically built into turntables or available as an external component.
A power amplifier, on the other hand, is designed to drive speakers and produce sound. It takes the line-level signal from a source device, such as a turntable or CD player, and amplifies it to a level that’s strong enough to drive speakers. A power amplifier is typically a separate component that’s connected between the source device and the speakers.
Can I use the Audio Technica LP60 with Bluetooth speakers?
The Audio Technica LP60 does not have built-in Bluetooth connectivity, so it can’t connect directly to Bluetooth speakers. However, you can use a Bluetooth adapter or transmitter to connect the LP60 to Bluetooth speakers. These devices plug into the LP60’s RCA output and transmit the audio signal wirelessly to your Bluetooth speakers.
Keep in mind that using a Bluetooth adapter or transmitter may introduce some latency or audio compression, which can affect sound quality. If you want the best possible sound quality, it’s recommended to connect the LP60 to wired speakers or a receiver with a built-in phono input.
How do I adjust the tracking force on the Audio Technica LP60?
The Audio Technica LP60 has a fixed tracking force, which means it’s set at the factory and can’t be adjusted by the user. This is a deliberate design choice to ensure that the turntable is easy to use and requires minimal maintenance.
The fixed tracking force is set to a level that’s suitable for most vinyl records and cartridges. However, if you’re using a specific cartridge that requires a different tracking force, you may need to consider a turntable with adjustable tracking force.
What is the warranty on the Audio Technica LP60?
The Audio Technica LP60 comes with a one-year limited warranty that covers defects in materials and workmanship. This warranty is provided by Audio Technica and applies to purchases made from authorized dealers.
To take advantage of the warranty, you’ll need to register your product on the Audio Technica website and provide proof of purchase. The warranty does not cover damage caused by misuse, neglect, or normal wear and tear.