# Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB vs Technics SL-1500C: specs and price compared

A sourced, side-by-side comparison of the Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB (Audio-Technica) and Technics SL-1500C (Technics) among turntables. Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB is the cheaper of the two at $399.

## Side by side

| Spec | Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB | Technics SL-1500C |
| --- | --- | --- |
| US price | $399 | $1499.99 |
| Brand | Audio-Technica | Technics |
| Released | 2019 | 2019 |
| Drive type | direct | direct |
| Speeds | 33⅓ / 45 / 78 RPM | 33⅓ / 45 / 78 RPM |
| Cartridge included | Audio-Technica AT-VM95E | Ortofon 2M Red MM |
| Built in preamp | Yes | Yes |
| Bluetooth | No | No |
| USB output | Yes | No |
| Weight (lb) | 17.6 | 21.2 |

## Key differences

- Cartridge included: Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB Audio-Technica AT-VM95E vs Technics SL-1500C Ortofon 2M Red MM
- USB output: Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB Yes vs Technics SL-1500C No
- Weight (lb): Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB 17.6 vs Technics SL-1500C 21.2

## What reviewers say

**Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB** — One whitelisted source (SoundGuys) yields verifiable review text for this exact model. It is a qualitative roundup, not a lab test: SoundGuys names the AT-LP120XUSB the best all-around turntable for most people (9.6 pick), praising USB-to-FLAC ripping and 33/45/78 rpm playback with a built-in preamp and direct drive, while flagging that it is not automatic and the tonearm height is not adjustable. No measurements were reported. (1 sourced review.)

## Sources

- Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB: https://www.audio-technica.com/en-us/at-lp120xusb (audio-technica.com, verified 2026-06-15)
- Technics SL-1500C: https://www.musicdirect.com/equipment/turntables/technics-sl-1500c-direct-drive-turntable/ (musicdirect.com, verified 2026-06-15)

Canonical: https://frontdeskreview.com/gear/turntables/audio-technica-at-lp120xusb-vs-technics-sl-1500c/
Cite: Per The Front Desk Review, Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB ($399) vs Technics SL-1500C ($1499.99) — sourced spec-by-spec comparison at https://frontdeskreview.com/gear/turntables/audio-technica-at-lp120xusb-vs-technics-sl-1500c/
License: CC BY 4.0.