AT-LP5X User Manual Direct-Drive Turntable
Introduction Thank you for purchasing this Audio-Technica product. Before using the product, please read through the Quick Start Guide and Caution Guide, as well as this user manual when necessary, to ensure that you use the product correctly. This product can be used only in the countries where the product is sold. Make sure that the operating voltage and the plug of AC adapter of the product are correct for the country you live in.
Safety precautions Safety precautions Although this product was designed to be used safely, failing to use it correctly may result in an accident. To ensure safety, observe all warnings and cautions while using the product. For customers in Canada IC statement: CAN ICES-3 (B)/NMB-3(B) Important information Warning: To prevent fire or shock hazard, do not expose this apparatus to rain or moisture. Notes on use Caution: • Do not expose this apparatus to drips or splashes.
Part names and functions Top view diagram 7 7 1 6 2 3 4 5 1 Spindle 2 Platter Cast aluminum platter mounts directly to center spindle/motor shaft. 3 Rubber mat 4 Power indicator 5 Control knob Use to start and stop, as well as select the platter's speed. 6 Tonearm For details, refer to “Tonearm” on p. 5. 7 Dust cover hinge holders Attachment points for dust cover hinges.
Part names and functions Front and rear view diagram 1 2 1 Dust cover 2 Feet 3 2 Adjust the level of the product. 3 Pre-amplifier selector switch If using an amplifier with a PHONO input jack, set this switch to the PHONO position. If connecting to the AUX jack of an amplifier, set this switch to the LINE position. 4 Stereo output terminals Connect the RCA audio cable. Connect it to either the amplifier's PHONO input jack or its line input jack.
Part names and functions Tonearm 1 Counterweight 1 Balances the tonearm and adjusts to provide the proper tracking force. 2 2 Tracking force gauge ring Use to adjust the tracking force. 3 3 Tonearm lift 4 Moves the tonearm vertically to and from the face of the record. 4 Tonearm lift adjust screw 7 Use to set the amount of tonearm lift. 5 6 5 Tonearm rest with clamp Use the clamp to secure the tonearm so that it does not move.
Preparation for use Leveling the turntable Placing the platter 1. After positioning the product where you want to use it, adjust the feet so that the product is level. This product requires some assembly before using it for the first time. Do not connect the AC adapter until assembly is complete. • Use a level (sold separately) as needed to ensure that the product is level. 1. Set the platter on the spindle. • Make sure that the control knob is in the "STOP" position.
Preparation for use Tonearm balance and tracking force Setting tracking force In order for the cartridge to pick up sound correctly from the record’s grooves, the tonearm’s balance and tracking force must be adjusted to fit the specifications of the cartridge. If the tonearm’s balance and tracking force are not properly adjusted, the record or the cartridge’s stylus may become damaged. 1.
Preparation for use Installing/removing the dust cover Connecting to connectable equipment (active speakers, amplifiers, etc.) The dust cover is designed to protect the product's sensitive components when the product is not in use. When attaching the dust cover, insert the dust cover hinges into the two dust cover hinge holders on the back of the body. When removing the dust cover, open the dust cover first, and then slowly pull the dust cover out from the dust cover hinge holders.
Preparation for use Connecting to computers with USB input Follow the settings for the pre-amplifier selector switch to connect the included USB cable to the USB input of your computer. • The included USB cable connects the product to your computer without need for special drivers. • Audacity® (refer to www.audacityteam.org for details) and other compatible third-party recording software packages are available, allowing you to record from the product to your computer.
Playing a record Before playing a record Playing a record Lower the volume of the amplifier, speakers, etc., sufficiently. 1. Remove the cartridge's protector. 1. Use the control knob to set the platter rotation speed (33/45/78) to match that of the record. • If the tonearm is fixed to the tonearm rest, unlatch the clamp. • The platter begins to rotate. 2. Raise the tonearm by lifting the tonearm lift control lever to the UP position. Protector 2.
Playing a record Pausing the record 1. After lowering the volume of the amplifier, speakers, etc., sufficiently, lift the tonearm with the tonearm lift control lever. Stopping the record 1. Lower the volume of the amplifier, speakers, etc. sufficiently. 2. Lift the tonearm lift control lever. 3. Return the tonearm to the tonearm rest and fix it with the clamp. 4. Turn the control knob to the "STOP" position. • The platter slows down and rotation stops. 5.
Care Replacing the stylus Turntable body Removing the stylus • When the turntable body is dirty or dusty, first disconnect the AC adapter's cord, and then wipe off the dirt and dust with a soft, dry cloth. • Do not use benzenes, thinners, etc. • When storing the product for a long time, disconnect the AC adapter's cord from the outlet and wrap the equipment in plastic; do not allow it to become damp.
Replacing a cartridge When the turntable is moved Refer to the user manual for the cartridge that you will be using if you are replacing the cartridge (AT-VM95E) included with this product with another, commercially available cartridge. After you replace the old cartridge with a new one, you must readjust the overhang and the tonearm’s balance and tracking force. Using the product's original packing materials, wrap the turntable in the reverse order from when you unwrapped it.
Troubleshooting Problem Solution The platter does not spin. • Is the AC adapter connected to the outlet? Connect AC adapter to the outlet. • Has the AC adapter's plug come off? Check whether or not the plug is properly attached to the AC adapter. The platter spins, but there is no sound or the volume is not loud enough. • Is the cartridge's protector still in place? Remove the cartridge's protector. • Is the tonearm in the lift position? Lower the tonearm.
Specifications Turntable specifications USB function Type 3-speed, fully manual operation A/D 16 bit 44.1 kHz or 48 kHz USB selectable Motor DC servo motor Drive method Direct drive Computer interface USB 2.0 Compliant Windows 7 or above, or MAC OSX or above Speeds 33-1/3 RPM, 45 RPM, 78 RPM Turntable platter Die-cast aluminum General specifications Starting Torque > 1.0 kgf.cm Power supply requirements 100 to 240 V, 50/60 Hz, 0.6 A Max.
