Audio-Technica AT-LP7X review: the return of hi-fi in its most traditional form?

The latest addition to the AT-LPX range, the Audio-Technica AT-LP7X turntable is positioned between the AT-LP5X and AT-LP8X models. True to the brand’s hi-fi DNA, it incorporates high-end components, such as its high-density acrylic platter and anti-vibration aluminum tonearm. However, it stands out from the crowd by adopting belt-driven manual operation. The Audio-Technica AT-LP7X also features a switchable phono preamp and gain selector for optimum compatibility with MM and MC cartridges. Built to last, this is a model designed for versatility and musical performance, with a price tag of €799.

Included accessories

As soon as you unpack the Audio-Technica AT-LP7X turntable, the weight of the device (7.6kg) immediately highlights its high-quality construction and reassures you of its solidity and stability.

The AT-LP7X turntable comes with a dust cover, but unlike some models in this price range, it isn’t hinged. This means it has to be removed completely when you want to listen to a record. However, this design makes it easier to install inside a hi-fi cabinet: the height required to remove the cover when listening to a record is less than that needed to open a hinged model. Be careful, though, as repeatedly opening the cover can lead to accidentally bumping sensitive components such as the cartridge or belt pulley. What’s more, this large cover can be quite cumbersome when not positioned on top of the turntable.

The accessories also include:

• a counterweight
• the belt
• the AT-LT10 headshell and AT-VM95E Black Edition cartridge (premounted)
• a 45 RPM adapter
• an AC adapter (1.3m)
• a detachable RCA phono cable (1.4m)
• a subcounterweight

Note from the expert
The subcounterweight supplied with the turntable is screwed onto the end of the tonearm, behind the traditional counterweight. It extends the turntable's compatibility with a heavier cartridge/headshell duo. By default, the Audio-Technica AT-LP7X turntable supports combinations weighing from 14 to 19.5g. Thanks to the additional subcounterweight, this compatibility extends to cartridge/headshell assemblies weighing up to 23.5g. A second, heavier subcounterweight is also available as an option, allowing you to use a cartridge/headshell combination weighing up to 28.5g. This attention to detail reveals the Audio-Technica AT-LP7X turntable's true hi-fi and upgradeable nature.

A unique approach in the AT-LPX range

The Audio-Technica AT-LP7X is a unique addition to the AT-LPX range. It reflects a deliberate choice by the Japanese brand to limit automation. While it fits between the LP5X and LP8X models, it abandons the direct drive in favor of a belt, with an exposed motor. This hi-fi approach is often favored by audiophiles to limit the unwanted noise that can be generated by some direct-drive motors.

Another distinctive feature is that the AT-LP7X turntable is limited to two playback speeds: 33 and 45 rpm. While these formats cover the most widely available records, this feature, which is unique to this model, is difficult to justify within the range. By way of comparison, the LP5X and LP8X models also support 78 rpm. In addition, some competing brands, such as Pro-Ject, offer this playback speed with a belt drive and in the same price range.

Refined design

The Audio-Technica AT-LP7X turntable has an immediately appealing minimalist design. The matte black finish gives it a modern, refined look while offering discreet integration into a living room or other music-dedicated spaces. This aesthetic choice is reinforced by the smoke-effect dust cover, which adds a touch of sophistication.

The heavy, 40mm-thick MDF chassis also contributes to the turntable’s premium appearance, while providing rigidity that minimizes resonance and vibrations, essential for optimal record playback. Finally, the height-adjustable rubber feet help stabilize the turntable, even on uneven surfaces, and customize its position for an ideal listening experience. In short, the Audio-Technica AT-LP7X combines aesthetics and functionality, offering a design that leaves nothing to chance.

Switchable phono preamplifier

The Audio-Technica AT-LP7X turntable features a switchable phono preamplifier, a highly flexible feature. With the latter, the turntable can be connected directly to active speakers to form a compact, high-performance plug-and-play solution. It simplifies installation and offers a practical solution for music lovers looking for fast, efficient setup.

However, the AT-LP7X goes beyond this simplicity: its preamplifier is switchable, allowing you to upgrade to an amp with a phono input or an external preamp for audiophiles seeking superior performance. This dual functionality allows the turntable to adapt to a variety of configurations, meeting the needs of beginners and experienced audiophiles alike.

Numerous adjustment options

The Audio-Technica AT-LP7X is a highly versatile turntable, as it incorporates numerous customization options that allow it to be adapted to different types of configurations and uses.

The Height Adjustment allows precise positioning of the tonearm for better cartridge tracking geometry, maximizing sound performance. This is achieved by means of a graduated ring at the base of the tonearm pivot. What’s more, the VTA (Vertical Tracking Angle) adjustment, a feature often reserved for higher-end models, offers the possibility of modifying the tilt of the cartridge for optimum playback for all types of records.

The anti-skating counterbalances the force exerted on the tonearm, guaranteeing uniform cartridge pressure on the vinyl record and greater groove-tracking precision. Last but not least, compatibility with MM and MC cartridges is a major asset, made even more practical by the gain selector that lets you easily switch between the two cartridge types. These options enable the Audio-Technica AT-LP7X turntable to adapt to a wide range of needs. For example, music lovers who own a moving magnet cartridge and a moving coil cartridge can easily swap between the two models.

Aluminum tonearm and high-density acrylic platter

The Audio-Technica AT-LP7X turntable features a high-density acrylic platter weighing 1.75kg, which is higher quality than aluminum platters. This premium material, renowned for its excellent inertia, minimizes vibrations and ensures optimum stability during record playback. This design not only contributes to a more accurate sound reproduction, but also adds a captivating visual aspect, thanks to the visible drive belt mechanism that reinforces the turntable’s captivating appearance. Enthusiasts will appreciate the warm sound experience of listening to vinyl as much as the mesmerizing visual appeal of the spinning record.

The aluminum tonearm, designed to limit unwanted vibrations, is another key element in the design of the new Audio-Technica AT-LP7X turntable. It enables precise tracking of the groove while minimizing distortion. Thanks to a high-quality ball bearing, the movement of the arm is flawless, guaranteeing perfectly stable playback. The whole unit rests on a 40mm-thick MDF chassis, contributing to the turntable’s rigidity and reducing resonance for a high-quality listening experience.

AT-VM95E cartridge

The Audio-Technica AT-LP7X is supplied with the AT-VM95E cartridge pre-mounted on the AT-LT10 cartridge holder. This model, particularly appreciated for its excellent value for money, is pre-assembled on many Audio-Technica models, such as the LP8X and AT-LPW40WN. Equipped with an elliptical stylus, this cartridge ensures precise, detailed playback of 33 and 45 rpm vinyl records.

One of the strengths of this cartridge is its compatibility with all other styli in the gamme VM95. In fact, the stylus is easily replaceable, enabling music lovers to upgrade the turntable’s playback precision. This styli series includes models with MicroLine or Shibata tips, for a cost-effective upgrade. Once again, Audio-Technica hits hard with a new feature for customization and future upgrades. What’s more, this AT-VM95E cartridge adopts a Black Edition finish perfectly matched to the matte black finish of the turntable, offering an elegant aesthetic coherence.

Audio-Technica AT-LP7X: key specifications

• Manual turntable
• Belt drive
• 33 and 45 rpm
• Switchable phono preamplifier
• Gain selector for MM and MC cartridges
• 1,750g high-density acrylic platter
• Aluminum tonearm
• AT-VM95E moving magnet cartridge
• Dimensions (WxHxD): 450 x 157 x 352mm
• Weight: 7.6kg

My impressions

Before enjoying my records, I simply had to install the belt around the platter and adjust the counterweight on the end of the tonearm. The positive impressions I had when unpacking the AT-LP7X were quickly confirmed when I put it to work. It is a true hi-fi turntable that knows how to make the most of every element to get the best out of your records, and its belt drive is perfectly stable and linear.

During this review, the Audio-Technica AT-LP7X was put through its paces with a wide selection of records, from the soul of Amy Winehouse to the rock of Led Zeppelin, to the Jackie Brown soundtrack. The turntable showed impressive versatility, managing to faithfully reproduce every musical genre while maintaining a perfect balance between precision and warmth.

The soundstage of the Audio-Technica AT-LP7X was remarkably layered, with clear instrument separation and depth. Attacks were clean, and each note found its place in the soundstage. The midrange was particularly well defined, offering a clear reproduction of voices and instruments, from the power of Led Zeppelin’s guitars to the subtlety of strings in orchestral compositions.

However, while the bass was present and well-structured, the highs sometimes lacked a bit of extra precision, especially during the most detailed passages. That said, this slight lack of definition did not detract from the overall fluidity of the sound. Whether it was Amy Winehouse on Back to Black, the energetic rock of Led Zeppelin, or the dynamic rap of Cypress Hill, the AT-LP7X delivered a very impressive performance, with a wide, balanced soundstage.

Audio-Technica AT-LP7X vs Argon Audio TT4 MKII

Placed in a virtually similar price segment, the Audio-Technica AT-LP7X and Argon Audio TT-4 MK2 turntables share several major features. They both have a manual, belt-driven design, VTA adjustment and a switchable phono preamp.

However, the Japanese turntable has the edge when it comes to customization. It boasts a wider range of adjustment options, including tonearm height adjustment and compatibility with the vast majority of cartridges on the market, both MM and MC. Its high-density acrylic platter is also a more reliable solution than the aluminum platter of its Danish competitor. As a result, the AT-LP7X offers superior scalability, which will be particularly appreciated by audiophiles wishing to upgrade their system over time.

The Danish turntable, on the other hand, is more focused on immediate performance. It is equipped with an Ortofon 2M Blue cartridge, renowned for its level of detail and precision, and a tonearm made of carbon fiber, a light, rigid material that favors excellent LP playback. A choice that will appeal to users seeking highly accomplished sound reproduction right out of the box, with fewer adjustments to make.

Who is the Audio-Technica AT-LP7X designed for?

The Audio-Technica AT-LP7X turntable is designed for music lovers looking for a versatile device, ready to accompany them in their future quest for optimization. Scalable, it is capable of adapting to different cartridges (MM or MC) and equipment (active speakers, external preamp, etc.) to create the ideal vinyl system.

Nevertheless, this turntable is a resolutely hi-fi model: its base is perfectly viable and optimized. However, it invites you to experiment and try different combinations to test its limits, as it is packed with features. Both easy to use and equipped with premium components, the Audio-Technica AT-LP7X turntable will appeal to a wide audience, from beginners looking for an upgradeable turntable to seasoned audiophiles.

Audio-Technica AT-LP7X turntable – Frequently asked questions (FAQ)