The brand-new Audio-Technica AT-LPA2 is a fully manual audiophile turntable that not only performs exceptionally — it also looks stunning.
According to the manufacturer, the fully manual AT-LPA2 record player strikes “a perfect balance between striking contemporary aesthetics and outstanding sonic performance.” Inspired by the successful AT-LP2022, this new model aims to deliver an even more refined demonstration of analog craftsmanship. Built from high-density transparent acrylic and precision-engineered for the purest possible listening experience, the AT-LPA2 is also a true eye-catcher in any setting — and we have to agree, it certainly looks the part.
Design Meets Performance
The AT-LPA2 is designed for vinyl enthusiasts who value both aesthetics and function. Its most striking feature is a 30 mm thick transparent acrylic chassis, paired with a 20 mm thick acrylic platter. This unique construction not only looks impressive but also provides exceptional resonance control, resulting in remarkably clear audio playback. At the heart of the turntable is a precision belt-drive system with an optical sensor beneath the spindle. This sensor continuously monitors platter rotation to ensure accurate speed at both 33⅓ and 45 RPM.
By separating the external power supply and control unit from the turntable itself, the AT-LPA2 helps isolate sensitive audio components from potential electrical interference — preserving the purity of the musical signal.
“Designed for the Ultimate Sonic Performance”
The Audio-Technica AT-LPA2 comes fitted with a factory-installed pickup cartridge: the highly regarded AT-OC9XEN Dual Moving Coil cartridge. Thanks to its nude elliptical stylus and ultra-pure PCOCC copper coils, this cartridge captures every detail and nuance from your vinyl with stunning clarity, offering excellent channel separation and low distortion.
These qualities are further enhanced by a newly developed, straight carbon fiber tonearm, which is, so the manufacturer states, engineered for superior tracking performance. It includes adjustable vertical tracking angle (VTA), azimuth adjustment, a precisely calibrated string-type anti-skating mechanism, and interchangeable counterweights for broader cartridge compatibility.
Specs
The key Features of the Audio-Technica AT-LPA2 (in the Manufacturer’s Words):
- Discover pure analog audio with Audio-Technica’s latest flagship, inspired by the acclaimed AT-LP2022
- Easy to install and operate despite its mechanical precision
- Striking 30 mm thick transparent acrylic chassis for superb resonance control
- 20 mm thick acrylic platter ensures consistent speed and stability
- Fully manual operation with belt-drive and two playback speeds: 33⅓ and 45 RPM
- Pre-installed AT-OC9XEN MC cartridge with 0.3 x 0.7 mil nude elliptical stylus for detailed audio, excellent channel separation, and low distortion
- External power supply and control unit isolate sensitive components from electrical interference
- Optical speed sensor under the spindle for highly accurate platter rotation
- New carbon fiber tonearm designed for superior tracking, with adjustable VTA
- Precisely calibrated string-type anti-skating mechanism
- Includes 110 g and 130 g counterweights for compatibility with multiple cartridges
- Exclusive machined aluminum headshell with azimuth adjustment
- Phono-level output for pure, direct signal transmission
- Robust, height-adjustable feet for excellent isolation from surface vibrations
- Turntable weight: approx. 8.4 kg (excluding control unit)
- Included: RCA cables, grounding wire, 45 RPM adapter, removable dust cover, setup tools, and inspection gloves
The Audio-Technica AT-LPA2 turntable is available now at a suggested retail price of €1,999. For more information, visit www.audio-technica.com.
Note: The stylus of the AT-OC9XEN cartridge is not user-replaceable. However, Audio-Technica offers a paid Moving Coil Exchange Program for cartridge maintenance. Due to its low output (0.35 mV), a step-up transformer or moving coil phono preamp is required to amplify the signal.