The Jensen JTA-460 turntable is one of the many vinyl devices that have gotten a modern treatment, and for that, the vendor believes it can enhance the overall user experience. But does it really get the work done? Today, I review the various features of this turntable to see if it can meet your needs or not.
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JENSEN JTA-460 Digital 3-Speed Stereo Turntable Overview
With a price tag of only $49.99, the Jensen JTA-460 turntable still promises to offer top-notch entertainment to users. It features an encoding system that enables you to convert your vinyl records directly to MP3 format without a computer. Although the turntable generally looks decent on the surface, I highly suspect its performance is substandard. Many customers have even complained about its inability to play records correctly. There are also concerns about its speed being too slow, the belt getting stuck, and the platter failing to spin, among others.
Technical Specifications
Here are the features the device offers:
- Belt driven system
- MP3 Encoding & AM/FM Receiver
- 3 speeds: 33 1/3, 45, 78 RPM
- Multiple play functions
- RCA Line-out Jacks
- USB and SD Card/MultiMediaCard slots
- Two built-in stereo speakers
- Bass boost
- Blue backlit LCD display
- AM/FM stereo receiver with digital frequency display
- Power indicator
- Power: AC 120V~60Hz
- Programmable memory
- Pitch, volume, and tone controls
I find the integration of modern features (e.g., USB) into this vinyl piece impressive. It gives you a chance to transfer your vintage collection to contemporary devices like your phone, PC, etc. I also love the AM/FM stereo receiver, as it enables you to listen to radio broadcasts through the turntable setup, offering extra versatility beyond playing vinyl records.
However, I am let down by the tonearm as it lacks weight or counterbalance, something which some users have noted contributes to a fading “in” and “out” on some records. The stylus pressure could be a matter of concern, too. I think it exerts excessive tracking force on records, and with no counterweight to offset some of the pressure, it’s possible that some records may fail to play effectively.
JENSEN JTA-460 Digital 3-Speed Stereo Turntable Drive Mechanism
Jensen JTA-460 is built on the belt-driven mechanism. This is where a belt connected to the motor is used to spin the turntable platter. Ideally, the belt seeks to absorb the motor’s vibrations so they don’t affect your music sound. What I don’t like about this mechanism, though, is that your record may take some time before it plays or reaches full speed.
Is JENSEN JTA-460 Digital 3-Speed Stereo Turntable Automatic or Manual?
This turntable is semi-automatic. It has an auto-stop feature that stops the platter rotation when the tonearm reaches the end of a record. However, you must manually return the tonearm to its resting position. This may be an advantage, especially if you want to have a connection with the analog playback process.
Usability and Portability of JENSEN JTA-460 Digital 3-Speed Stereo Turntable
Honestly speaking, JTA-460 is user-friendly. Featuring intuitive play buttons, controls, automatic functions like auto-stop, and clear labeling, a hassle-free vinyl listening experience is guaranteed. A detailed manual is also available to help you set up and use the device effortlessly.
The turntable is also easily portable. Weighing only 2 pounds (or 0.9kg), you can carry it effortlessly to other locations and listen to your vinyl collection. However, be prepared to deal with messy wires.
JENSEN JTA-460 Digital 3-Speed Stereo Turntable Design & Build
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When it comes to the appearance of Jensen 460, I cannot say it’s the best. It’s plain black and made of plastic for the most part. The dust cover is cut out on the sides, so you can close it when your music is playing. The front part features an LCD monitor, a tuning knob, a volume knob, and some other control buttons. At the bottom, you will see non-skid rubber ‘feet’ meant to prevent the unit from moving. However, you are advised to apply self-adhesive felt pads to the bottom of the feet to protect your wood furniture from damage.
Connectivity & Sound Performance of JENSEN JTA-460 Digital 3-Speed Stereo Turntable: Okay, but…
Based on my assessment, the turntable AUX connection works just fine. You can easily connect other gadgets like your MP3 player or iPod through the auxiliary input jack and play records through the built-in speaker. In terms of outputs, the USB port seamlessly converts your vintage collection to digital format using your PC.
The turntable generally produces decent sound, but the speakers cannot get as loud as you would want them. Also, there are concerns that the sound transferred to external outputs (e.g., RCA and USB ports) doesn’t deliver powerful bass sounds. You can mitigate this by connecting the turntable to an external speaker system.
I cannot fail to mention that some users have reported the speakers producing shrill sounds or a loud whirring noise when the motor starts. The sounds can sometimes be heard between songs, which can be very distracting.
Main Technology Perks of JENSEN JTA-460 Digital 3-Speed Stereo Turntable
Jensen has done a great job in integrating a USB port in this machine, as it offers the convenience of transferring your vinyl collection to digital devices. The MP3 encoding system is also a great feature that lets you carry your favorite records on the road with you.
Pricing
JTA-460 is relatively cheap, as you only need to pay $49.99 to acquire it.
How to Setup & Use JENSEN JTA-460 Digital 3-Speed Stereo Turntable?
JTA-460 is an out-of-the-box turntable, preset up for immediate use. You can follow the steps below when you are ready to use it:
- Open the dust cover.
- Take out the stylus protector and release the tonearm clamp.
- Slide the Function Selector to “PHONO” and put your record on the platter.
- Select your preferred speed.
- Gently lower the tonearm onto the record to begin playing.
- That’s it!
Avoid placing the turntable on a surface exposed to continuous vibration for an enhanced listening experience. Also, use the controls to adjust the volume and the base accordingly.
Overall Impression about JENSEN JTA-460 Digital 3-Speed Stereo Turntable
This device is good for entry-level, thanks to its simple features that are easy to navigate. Nonetheless, the sound quality may disappoint some.
Pros
Advantages of this device include built-in speakers, affordability, an MP3 encoding system, and multiple speed options.
Cons
The turntable doesn’t produce a loud sound. Also, the bass sounds are weak.
Who is it for?
I believe that JTA-460 is ideal for newbies who aren’t very concerned about sound quality.
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Final Verdict
As I wrap up, I must say that I am not that fascinated by JTA-460. Don’t get me wrong, though. The device is well-built and gets the job done at the very least. So, it’s a decent choice if you are new to vinyl, are on a budget, and don’t plan to use it regularly. But if you are a high-fidelity enthusiast, you may want to look for a better option.
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