Audio-Technica has been expanding its turntable production, and AT-LPW40WN is one of the many units recently released to the market. So far, it has hundreds of users, if not thousands. But before I continue, what’s with the long name? Audio Technica may want to look into that. On a more serious note, let me review the turntable to help you determine whether it checks out in terms of overall functionality.
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Audio-Technica AT-LPW40WN Turntable Overview
The AT-LPW40WN turntable seeks to provide you with optimal high-fidelity audio reproduction. It boasts features like a built-in phono preamp, carbon-fiber tonearm, die-cast aluminum platter, and much more. Some users love the turntable’s sturdy build, good sound, simple setup process, and nice looks. However, others have reported issues with motor noise, humming sounds, and the inability to dampen vibrations.
Technical Specifications
The turntable’s specs include:
- 2 speeds: 33-1/3 and 45 RPM
- Adjustable dynamic anti-skate control
- Die-cast aluminum platter with rubber mat
- AT-VM95E Dual Moving Magnet phono cartridge
- Elliptical stylus
- Straight carbon-fiber tonearm
- Anti-resonance MDF (medium-density fiberboard) plinth
- Built-in switchable phono pre-amplifier
Take it from me: AT-LPW40WN is generally well-built. I begin with the tonearm. It features a simple tube housing a socket and an angular head embedded with it. Carbon fiber is the material used, offering a rigid construction that enables it to resist resonance. Next is the well-regarded cartridge. It comes with an elliptical stylus that allows it to track records more accurately than the conical one. As a result, you are able to enjoy better sound quality. Talking of the motor, it’s augmented by a speed-sensor system and feedback. This translates to enhanced speed stability.
Audio-Technica AT-LPW40WN Turntable Drive Mechanism
The turntable operates using the belt drive, where the platter is driven by a rubber belt attached to the motor pulley. By providing a level of isolation, this setup aims to decrease vibration noise and shocks for a cleaner sound. While you can still hear some motor noise or a faint whisper from the belt itself, with other turntables using this mechanism, the AT-LPW40WN is dead silent. At this point, I would say that the main downside of the belt is that it may loosen or wear out over time, requiring replacement.
Is Audio-Technica AT-LPW40WN Turntable Automatic or Manual?
Audio-Technica designed this unit to be fully manual. You move the arm yourself and lift it off again when your record finishes playing. I think this is good as it enables you to be fully involved in the playback process, which is a great and unforgettable experience.
Usability and Portability of Audio-Technica AT-LPW40WN Turntable
Operating AT-LPW40WN is all easy, and with full instructions available, even beginners don’t have to fear. And with a clearly labeled speed knob, you can set your preferred speed and turn the power button on to start listening to your vinyl collection.
I wouldn’t say that this turntable fits the portable category. I have come across turntables specifically created with portability in mind. Some have carry handles, a built-in battery, or a briefcase-style housing to protect the entire unit while on the move. AT-LPW40WN doesn’t have any of these features, so it’s more suitable for stationary use.
Audio-Technica AT-LPW40WN Turntable Design & Build
I just love this turntable’s overall aesthetic. The MDF plinth with the simulated walnut wood veneer finish gives it a gorgeous look and a vintage vibe. I also like what Audio-Technica has done with the surface; it isn’t crowded with many knobs or buttons.
The connection panel is located at the back, and there are no surprises. You will find the usual RCA socket, a ground pin, and a connector for the external power supply. There’s a tiny toggle switch for turning on or bypassing the built-in correction preamp circuit.
Connectivity & Sound Performance of Audio-Technica AT-LPW40WN Turntable: Best for its price range…
Might interest you:
The AT-LPW40WN turntable provides two output levels. You can play it through the built-in phono input of an amplifier or the phono level output. It’s also possible to use a line-level output rather than the phono-level for a stronger signal at the touch of a button. Notably, some users have noticed an audible hum when they play records via the phono output.
Audio Technica hardly disappoints when it comes to sound performance. Therefore, I am pleased to discover that the turntable can handle any music at a good level. As such, it’s able to produce balanced, well-saturated, and energetic sound for most records. Of course, you can’t compare it to those on the high-end, but it’s very good at this price range.
Main Technology Perks of Audio-Technica AT-LPW40WN Turntable
The built-in phono is a plus. By magnifying the turntable’s signal to line level, the unit enables a hassle-free connection to amplifiers or receivers lacking a dedicated phono input. The use of a precision-engineered die-cast aluminum platter and a balanced straight tonearm ensures stability during playback and accurate tracking of records.
Pricing
You can purchase AT-LPW40WN at $379. I think this is more than fair, given the high-quality features the turntable offers.
How to Setup & Use Audio-Technica AT-LPW40WN Turntable?
You can have this turntable up and running in less than 5 minutes because the process is so easy. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started:
- Carefully unpack the turntable and ensure all the components and accessories are there.
- The belt comes preinstalled on the platter. Therefore, the red ribbon attached between the belt and platter will help place the belt around the brass motor pulley.
- Put the platter on the center spindle and rotate it using your hand until the opening with the red ribbon exposes the gold-colored motor pulley.
- Hold the platter and use both ends of the ribbon to stretch the belt over the motor pulley.
- Place the mat over the platter.
- Take out the twist tie and foam wrap from the tonearm and secure the arm to its rest using the locking clamp.
- Attach the headshell by inserting it into the socket at the end of the tonearm. As you hold the headshell, turn the headshell locking ring in a counterclockwise direction and tighten it.
- Install the counterweight while ensuring that the black stylus force gauge dial is oriented toward the front. As you turn the counterweight, it will thread onto the tonearm.
- Set the tracking force to zero, remove the stylus cover, balance the tonearm, and set the anti-skate adjustment.
- Connect the power plug and the RCA cable.
- Turn it on and enjoy your records.
For best performance, the turntable should be level. In this case, use a small bubble level to adjust its feet as needed to attain a firm balance. Also, don’t cover the turntable when playing music to avoid disruption in sound output.
Overall Impression About Audio-Technica AT-LPW40WN Turntable?
The Audio-Technica AT-LPW40WN turntable is musical beyond its price range. It’s also a classic looker, and with a removable headshell, you can always upgrade the stylus for a more enhanced listening experience.
Pros
Detailed sound, simple setup, elegant look, and switchable phono preamp,
Cons
No Bluetooth connectivity and not-so-good phono output.
Who Is It For?
Beginners and audiophiles alike can enjoy this turntable.
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Final Verdict
I believe that this turntable is a worthy spend. It looks very nice and delivers good sound at a fair price. What could be better than that? It’s also user-friendly and incorporates great features.
The only downside that’s worth mentioning is the lack of USB/Bluetooth connectivity.
But this may not matter much if you just want to have the old-school vinyl experience.
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