Replacing the Stylus

The AT-LP120-USB comes supplied with a high-quality Audio-Technica ATP-2 cartridge. The stylus should be replaced with a genuine Audio-Technica ATP-N2 stylus.

1.Release the headshell assembly from the tone arm by turning the locking ring clockwise.

2.Carefully remove the headshell assembly and turn it over so the stylus is visible.

3.Remove the stylus assembly by pulling it away from the cartridge body at a slight angle. [See Figure 7.]

4.Remove the replacement stylus from its package and carefully align it with the cartridge body.

5.Gently push the stylus onto the cartridge body, being careful not to damage the stylus. The stylus assembly should click into place.

6.Replace the headshell assembly on the tone arm and secure with the locking ring.

Figure 7 – Removing the Stylus

Replacing the Cartridge

Mechanical Assembly

1.To replace the cartridge, first release the headshell assembly from the tone arm by turning the locking ring clockwise. Carefully remove the headshell assembly and turn it over so that the stylus is visible. Remove the stylus assembly by pulling it away from the cartridge body at a slight angle. [See Figure 7.] Place the stylus assembly out of harm’s way.

2.Remove the cartridge body by loosening the two small screws securing the cartridge to the headshell. Set the hardware aside to be reused with the new cartridge.

3.Unpack the new cartridge and carefully remove its stylus assembly. Place the stylus assembly out of harm’s way. Mount the new cartridge to the headshell assembly. Use the mounting hardware supplied with the new cartridge or the existing hardware removed at step 2. Tighten the mounting screws until just snug. Replace the stylus assembly briefly to check for mechanical interference with the mounting hardware. The stylus assembly should click into place. Make certain the new cartridge is properly positioned in the headcase assembly per the manufacturer’s instructions. Again remove the stylus assembly for safekeeping.

Electrical Connections

1.Four terminals at the rear of the cartridge are color coded to match standard wiring in stereo tone arms. [See Figure 8.] Connect the cartridge with the slip-on lugs provided on the headshell wiring. NEVER SOLDER TO CARTRIDGE TERMINALS! Heat applied to the terminals will damage the internal cartridge wiring.

2.For monaural operation, the left and right signal leads should be connected to the monaural output terminal and the left and right ground leads should be connected to the ground terminal.

3.Finally, gently push the stylus onto the cartridge body being careful not to damage the stylus. The stylus assembly should click into place. Replace the headshell assembly onto the tone arm taking care not to damage the stylus assembly.

(Note: After replacing the cartridge, reset the tone arm balance, stylus force and anti-skate based on the new cartridge’s specifications.)

Figure 8 – Electrical Connections

	Right Output
	(Red)
Left Output	Right Ground
(White)	(Green)
Left Ground
(Blue)

AT-LP120-USB specifications

The Audio-Technica AT-LP120-USB is a direct-drive turntable that has garnered acclaim for its impressive features and performance, making it a popular choice among vinyl enthusiasts, DJs, and audiophiles alike. Designed to provide a seamless listening experience, this turntable is equipped with a host of advancements that enhance both sound quality and usability.

One of the standout features of the AT-LP120-USB is its direct-drive motor. Unlike belt-driven turntables, which can suffer from fluctuations in speed, the direct-drive mechanism offers precise and consistent rotation, ensuring that your records play at the correct speed. This is particularly beneficial for DJs who require a reliable turntable that can handle scratching and beat-matching with ease.

The AT-LP120-USB is equipped with a variable pitch control slider, allowing users to adjust the playback speed by ±10% or ±20%. This feature offers significant flexibility for DJs looking to match the tempo of different tracks, as well as for listeners who prefer to experiment with their record playback.

This turntable also highlights its USB output, which allows for easy digital conversion of vinyl records to digital files. Accompanied by Audacity software, users can conveniently digitize their vinyl collection, preserving their favorite albums in a modern format without losing the rich sound quality inherent in vinyl.

The AT-LP120-USB features a solid aluminum platter that not only adds to the turntable's aesthetic appeal but also contributes to reduced resonance for improved playback quality. The built-in adjustable anti-skate control helps ensure that the stylus tracks smoothly in the grooves of records, further enhancing sound fidelity.

Moreover, the AT-LP120-USB includes a removable headshell, which allows for easy replacement of cartridges. The included AT-95E cartridge produces clear, dynamic sound and can be easily upgraded for users looking for even higher-quality audio performance.

With its sturdy construction and iconic design, the Audio-Technica AT-LP120-USB is equipped with a pre-amplifier, making it compatible with various speaker systems, including those that lack dedicated phono inputs. Overall, the AT-LP120-USB represents a blend of vintage charm and modern technology, appealing to a wide range of users longing for an authentic vinyl experience. Its quality, versatility, and ease of use set it apart as a leading option in the turntable market.