IFA 2022: Audio-Technica presents two new BT turntables

The hi-fi experts at Audio-Technica have unveiled two new Bluetooth turntables at IFA 2022. The Audio-Technica AT-LPW50TRW and Audio-Technica AT-LP3XBT are said to be the new entry-level models from the popular premium brand.

Audio-Technica AT-LPW50BTRW: State-of-the-art technology in a vintage look

The premium manufacturer can produce not only gaming headsets like the ATH-GDL3, which was unveiled in March or powerful microphones like the AT2020USB-X. The company is also considered non-plus-ultra when it comes to turntables. At first glance, you can hardly distinguish the AT-LPW50BTRW from a classic record player. This is not only due to the wooden look, but also the controls. But appearances are deceptive. The most modern technology slumbers under the hood of the Bluetooth turntable. A phono amplifier inside ensures that you can easily connect it to your headphones or speakers.

In turn, you place your vinyl on a turntable, which is made of die-cast aluminum. To prevent slipping, a rubber mat provides grip. But it also convinces externally in terms of technology. The manufacturer uses carbon fiber for the tonearm. This ensures an extremely low weight and makes the tonearm wonderfully stiff. The pickup serves as the connecting element to the record. Audio-Technica relies on its own AT-VM95E. This may fall short in comparison to Audio-Technica’s flagship series in the form of the ART models, but it should be more than sufficient for beginners. Since the manufacturer uses the conventional models of the VM95 series, you don’t have to worry about their defect either.

Audio-Technica AT-LP3XBT: Perfect entry-level model

If you can do without the wooden look and rubber mat of the AT-LPW50BTRW, you should take a look at the AT-LP3XBT. This one also offers state-of-the-art technology, but comes in an unexciting look. Just like the other newcomer, this turntable also offers a built-in phono amplifier, which makes a separate amplifier unnecessary. You can connect to your source devices via Bluetooth or the included RCA cable.

The manufacturer spends with aptX a modern BT codec, which should provide lossless and high-quality music transmission. The lower price is not only noticeable in the felt mat, which replaces the rubber mat on the turntable. On top of that, the AT-LPW50BTRW has a less expensive cartridge in the form of the AT-VM95C.

Prices and availability

You can buy the two new additions now from Audio-Technica’s webshop. For the AT-LPW50BTRW, the hi-fi experts are asking for an MSRP of 499.00 euros. The significantly cheaper AT LP3XBT in turn is priced at 329.00 euros.