2 Best Alternatives to the Audio-Technica LP120XUSBSV Turntable

The Audio-Technica LP120XUSBSV is a serious entry-level direct-drive deck: manual operation, analogue output, USB recording, and the reassuringly solid feel of a motor-driven platform that’s built for stable speed and easy DJ-style handling. But not everyone needs that level of control, and some buyers may prefer a simpler, cheaper, or more complete setup.

The first alternative is the Audio-Technica AT-LP60X Turntable and Edifier R1280T Active Speaker Package Exclusive Set by Digitalis Audio. At £229.99, it undercuts the LP120XUSBSV while giving you a complete listening system, which is a big win if you’re starting from scratch. The AT-LP60X is fully automatic, so the tonearm lifts and drops with minimal fuss, making it much more beginner-friendly than the manual LP120X. The included Edifier R1280T speakers are a practical bonus: each cabinet uses a 4-inch bass driver and 13mm silk-dome tweeter, with a built-in 2 x 21W RMS amplifier, so you can play records without buying extra amplification. What’s better here is convenience, value, and simplicity. What’s worse is flexibility and upgrade potential: the AT-LP60X is a lighter-duty design than the LP120X, with less of the rugged, audiophile-leaning feel of a direct-drive deck. It’s also not the right choice if you want to experiment with cartridge upgrades, cue manually, or use the deck for more hands-on listening. Choose this if you want an easy, great-sounding vinyl setup with minimal box-ticking and maximum plug-and-play appeal.

The second alternative is the Audio-Technica LP3XBTBK Automatic Wireless Turntable Black at £231.90. This is the most obvious alternative for anyone who likes the Audio-Technica sound but wants a more relaxed experience. Like the LP60X, it’s automatic, so it’s far less fiddly than the LP120XUSBSV, but it adds Bluetooth for wireless playback to speakers or headphones. That makes it especially attractive if you value neatness and modern convenience over absolute signal purity. The LP3XBT’s big advantage is ease of use: it gets you listening quickly, and the automatic tonearm action is ideal for casual sessions and late-night listening. The downside is that Bluetooth introduces compression and strips away some of the fine detail and dynamic snap you’d get from a wired analogue connection. It also lacks the LP120X’s direct-drive confidence and more tactile, enthusiast-friendly controls. Pick this one if you want a stylish, low-maintenance deck with wireless flexibility and you’re less concerned about recording vinyl to USB or having the most robust manual control.

In short, the LP120XUSBSV remains the more serious choice for listeners who want direct-drive stability, manual operation, and USB digitising. But if you want better value, easier operation, or a neater wireless setup, these two alternatives make a lot of sense.