Sony is renewing its turntable range with two new Bluetooth models: the PS-LX3BT and PS-LX5BT. Fully automatic, these record players focus on ease of use and wireless connectivity, while retaining a rigorous design to get the best out of your vinyl records.
Minimalist design, shared vision
The two new Sony PS-LX3BT and PS-LX5BT turntables share a philosophy: streamlined design that blends harmoniously into any interior. Both models feature a simple black chassis combining plastic and aluminum. The transparent, removable cover protects the turntable while highlighting its silhouette.
Both models also share the same dimensions (430 x 117 x 366mm) and weight (3.6kg), reflecting a stable design developed to limit unwanted vibrations during playback.
Automatic operation and wireless connectivity
Both the Sony PS-LX5BT and PS-LX3BT record players are fully automatic: simply press the START button and the tonearm will move into position, begin playback and return to its initial position when the record is finished. This intuitive operation will appeal to those new to vinyl. The automatic design also protects records and the cartridge from wear and tear.
In terms of connectivity, both Sony PS-LX3BT and PS-LX5BT turntables feature a Bluetooth transmitter, with support for the aptX Adaptive codec for high-resolution audio transmission to compatible devices. This means they can transmit the signal to Bluetooth headphones or a portable speaker, giving music lovers even more freedom.
For wired connections, they feature a built-in, switchable phono preamplifier. This way, the new Sony turntables can be combined with a pair of active speakers or an external amplifier with no phono input. This scalability means you can discover the world of vinyl without having to resort to a complex installation before considering future upgrades with a separate preamplifier, for example.
Sony PS-LX5BT: a more ambitious model
It is mainly in terms of sound reproduction that the Sony PS-LX5BT stands out from its counterpart. It features a more high-end design, with a detachable RCA cable, a more precise MM cartridge and a high-grip rubber platter mat that ensures stable rotation and reduces vibrations.
In comparison, the PS-LX3BT focuses more on ease of use and versatility. It retains the robust construction, with an aluminum platter and moving magnet (MM) cartridge, but without the advanced acoustic optimizations of the top model. Therefore, it is therefore more suitable for occasional use or for those new to the world of vinyl.
PS-LX3BT vs PS-LX5BT
| PS-LX3BT | PS-LX3BT | |
| Detachable cable | ❌ | ✅ |
| Bluetooth codec | SBC, aptX and aptX Adaptive | SBC, aptX and aptX Adaptive |
| Automatic operation | ✅ | ✅ |
| Cartridge | MM with 3.5g tracking force | MM with 2g tracking force |
| Platter mat | Soft plastic | Anti-slip rubber |
| Phono preamp | ✅ | ✅ |
| Gain selector | Low (-4 dB) / Mid (0 dB) / High (+6 dB) | Low (-4 dB) / Mid (0 dB) / High (+6 dB) |
| Price | €299 | €399 |
Summary
Sony’s PS-LX3BT and PS-LX5BT are two automatic turntables with a similar streamlined design, but different ambitions. The PS-LX3BT focuses on ease of use and rapid setup. The Sony PS-LX5BT, on the other hand, takes audio quality a step further, thanks to a more advanced design and carefully engineered components.
