Audio-Technica AT-LP1240-USBXP | Direct-Drive Professional DJ Turntable Review
The Audio-Technica AT-LP1240-USBXP is a direct-drive turntable built to cater to both professional DJs and vinyl enthusiasts who want superior performance and flexibility. Known for delivering high-quality audio equipment, Audio-Technica designed this turntable to handle the rigors of professional use while providing features like USB connectivity for digital conversion. Whether you’re performing live or listening to records at home, the AT-LP1240-USBXP offers a solid mix of analog and digital capabilities. In this review, we’ll explore the key features, analyze customer feedback, and give a final verdict on whether this turntable is a smart investment for DJs and audiophiles alike.
The Audio-Technica AT-LP1240-USBXP is a high-performance turntable aimed at DJs who need a reliable, durable deck for live performances, as well as vinyl collectors who want excellent sound quality. With its direct-drive motor, wide pitch control range, and fully manual operation, the AT-LP1240-USBXP offers precision and responsiveness, crucial for DJs. In addition, it includes a USB output for digitizing your vinyl collection, making it versatile enough for both analog purists and those who want to enjoy their records in a digital format.
Whether you’re spinning tracks in a club or archiving your vinyl collection, this turntable promises to deliver in both performance and usability. Let’s take a closer look at its standout features.
Main Features of the Audio-Technica AT-LP1240-USBXP
1. Direct-Drive, High-Torque Motor
The Audio-Technica AT-LP1240-USBXP is equipped with a direct-drive, high-torque motor that provides quick start-up times and stable platter rotation. This is essential for DJs who rely on responsiveness for mixing, scratching, and beatmatching. The direct-drive system ensures that the platter starts and stops instantly, making it perfect for live performances where timing is crucial.
With a high-torque motor, the turntable delivers consistent playback speeds without pitch fluctuations, ensuring precise control whether you’re DJing or simply listening to vinyl.
2. Three-Speed Operation (33 1/3, 45, and 78 RPM)
The AT-LP1240-USBXP supports all three major record speeds: 33 1/3, 45, and 78 RPM. This versatility allows you to play everything from standard LPs and singles to older 78 RPM records. Whether you have a modern vinyl collection or vintage records, this turntable can handle them with ease.
The inclusion of 78 RPM capability is a notable advantage, especially for those who own older records, making it a versatile addition to any setup.
3. Variable Pitch Control with Multiple Ranges
DJs will appreciate the AT-LP1240-USBXP’s variable pitch control, which allows for precise adjustments with a range of +/- 8%, +/- 16%, and +/- 24%. This wide pitch control range provides flexibility when beatmatching tracks with different tempos, a crucial feature for live DJ sets. The pitch slider is smooth and responsive, making it easy to make fine adjustments during performances.
Additionally, the pitch reset button allows you to instantly return to zero pitch, making it simple to transition between tracks without missing a beat.
4. USB Output for Digital Conversion
One of the standout features of the Audio-Technica AT-LP1240-USBXP is its USB output, which allows you to digitize your vinyl collection. Using the turntable’s USB connection, you can easily transfer your vinyl records to a digital format by connecting it to your computer. This feature is ideal for vinyl enthusiasts who want to preserve their collection or DJs looking to integrate their vinyl tracks into a digital library.
The turntable comes with Audacity software, which simplifies the process of recording and editing your vinyl tracks, making it accessible even for beginners.
5. Fully Manual Operation for Precision Control
The AT-LP1240-USBXP is a fully manual turntable, giving you complete control over playback. This allows DJs to start and cue records exactly when they want, offering precise timing for live performances. Manual operation also appeals to vinyl collectors who prefer hands-on control over their listening experience.
The tonearm is adjustable, featuring anti-skate control, a counterweight, and height adjustment, ensuring accurate tracking and minimizing skips, even during intense scratching.
6. Detachable RCA Cables and Built-In Phono Preamp
The AT-LP1240-USBXP includes detachable RCA output cables, which makes transportation and setup more convenient for mobile DJs. The RCA outputs are gold-plated for superior signal transfer, ensuring high-quality sound when connected to your mixer or sound system.
For added versatility, the turntable also includes a built-in phono preamp, allowing you to connect it directly to powered speakers or audio systems that lack a phono input. This eliminates the need for an external preamp, simplifying the setup for both DJing and home listening.
7. Rugged Construction for Durability
Designed for professional use, the AT-LP1240-USBXP is built to last. Its robust die-cast aluminum platter and heavy-duty construction ensure stability, even during intense DJ performances. The turntable features anti-vibration damping materials that reduce unwanted noise and resonance, ensuring clear, accurate sound even in loud environments.
The turntable’s sleek, black finish gives it a professional look, and the build quality ensures that it can handle frequent transport and setup without sacrificing performance.
Should You Buy at a Glance?
If you’re looking for a high-performance, feature-packed turntable that caters to both professional DJs and vinyl enthusiasts, the Audio-Technica AT-LP1240-USBXP is an excellent choice. Its high-torque motor, variable pitch control, USB connectivity, and durable construction make it a versatile option for both live performances and home listening. The added USB output for digitizing vinyl is a bonus for those who want to preserve their collection in a digital format.
Customer Opinion
The Audio-Technica AT-LP1240-USBXP has garnered positive reviews from both professional DJs and audiophiles. Many users praise its powerful motor and smooth operation, noting that it delivers the quick responsiveness needed for DJing. The pitch control is frequently mentioned as being precise and flexible, making it easy for DJs to beatmatch tracks and maintain consistent mixes.
Customers also appreciate the USB output for its simplicity and ease of use when digitizing vinyl. The included Audacity software has proven to be user-friendly, even for those with limited experience in audio editing. The turntable’s build quality has also received high marks, with users noting its sturdy construction and anti-vibration design that ensures consistent playback even in loud environments.
One common area of feedback is the lack of a cartridge included in the package. While this allows users to choose their preferred cartridge, it does mean an additional purchase for those who don’t already own one.
Final Verdict
The Audio-Technica AT-LP1240-USBXP is an outstanding professional-grade turntable that offers a perfect balance of analog and digital functionality. Its direct-drive, high-torque motor, combined with its wide pitch control range, makes it an excellent choice for DJs who need precision and reliability during live performances. At the same time, its USB output and manual operation make it a versatile tool for vinyl enthusiasts who want to preserve their collection or enjoy high-fidelity playback.
The rugged construction ensures durability for frequent use, while the added convenience of detachable RCA cables and a built-in preamp make setup straightforward. Whether you’re a DJ looking for a reliable workhorse or a vinyl lover wanting a high-quality listening experience, the AT-LP1240-USBXP is well worth the investment.
Looking for a professional turntable that offers the best of both worlds—analog and digital? The Audio-Technica AT-LP1240-USBXP delivers exceptional performance and versatility.
