Turntables Comparison: Audio-Technica AT-LP120 vs Pro-Ject Essential III

Compare detailed specifications, side-by-side differences, verified user reviews, and buying recommendations to help you make the right choice.

Audio-Technica AT-LP120

Audio-Technica AT-LP120

  • Brand Audio-Technica
  • Frequency Response, Hz 20 - 20000
  • Weight, Kg/pounds 10.6/23.5
  • Power Consumption, W 11
  • Type dual magnet
Pro-Ject Essential III

Pro-Ject Essential III

  • Brand Pro-Ject
  • Frequency Response, Hz 20 - 20000
  • Weight, Kg/pounds 5.1/11.1
  • Power Consumption, W 4,5
  • Type moving magnet (MM)

Quick Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?

Deciding between the Audio-Technica AT-LP120 and the Pro-Ject Essential III depends on your available space, storage capacity goals, and everyday usage style:

Best For Maximum Capacity

Audio-Technica AT-LP120

Designed for large households, bulk grocery shoppers, and long-term storage where total cubic feet is the highest priority.

  • Superior Volume: Easily stores bulk meats, frozen garden harvests, and family packs.
  • Cold Retention: Keeps food frozen significantly longer in power outages.
  • Energy Efficiency: Top-opening design keeps dense cold air trapped inside.
Best For Compact Spaces

Pro-Ject Essential III

Ideal for apartments, offices, dorms, or secondary kitchen use where space efficiency and neat organization are paramount.

  • Space-Saving Footprint: Fits neatly under counters or in compact corners without intruding.
  • Upright Organization: Shelves allow you to organize and grab items without digging.
  • Everyday Convenience: Front-swing door provides quick, easy access anytime.

Pros & Cons

Audio-Technica AT-LP120

VS

Pros

    • Easy operation and user-friendly design
    • Wide range of compatibility
    • Professional-grade features
    • High-quality sound reproduction

Cons

    • higher-end turntable

Pro-Ject Essential III

VS

Pros

    • This model outputs high-quality sound with the deep bass sound.
    • Bluetooth output.
    • The built quality is very high – it is heavy enough.

Cons

    • The soundstage is quite narrow. It is not automatic.

Specifications

Specification Audio-Technica AT-LP120 Pro-Ject Essential III
Motor
Drive Method direct belt
Wow & Flutter (WRMS), % 0.2 0.2
Torque >1.6 kgf-cm >4.5 kgf-cm
Speed, RPM 33.3, 45, 78 33.3, 45
Platter Type aluminum diecast aluminum diecast
Sound
Output Level Pre-amp "PHONO": 2.5 mV nominal at 1 kHz, 5 cm/sec. Pre-amp "LINE": 150 mV nominal at 1 kHz, 5 cm/sec 4 mV nominal at 1 kHz, 5 cm/sec
Gain 36 —
Signal To Noise Ratio, DB 50 65
Frequency Response, Hz 20 - 20000 20 - 20000
Features
45 RPM Adapter Yes Yes
Dust Cover Yes Yes
Other has not has not
Stylus
Model ATN95E Ortofon OM10
Type dual magnet moving magnet (MM)
Replaceable Yes Yes
Connections
Other has not has not
RCA 1 1
USB 1 —
Cartridge
Supplied Headshell Weight, G 2,5 5,5
Appropriate Needle Pressure, G 1,5 3
Type dual magnet moving magnet (MM)
Controls
Braking System electronic electronic
Pitch Variation, % +/-10 or +/-20 +/-0,7
Pitch Control Yes No
Operation Type full manual full manual
Dimensions
Weight, Kg/pounds 10.6/23.5 5.1/11.1
Size, Cm/inches 15.2 x 45.2 x 35.3/ 6 x 17.8 x 13.9 9.5 x 41.5 x 33/4.4 x 16.9 x 13
Power
Power Consumption, W 11 4,5

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Frequently Asked Questions

The main differences center around storage capacity, form factor, and convenience. The Audio-Technica AT-LP120 provides extensive bulk storage capacity best suited for homes, garages, or basements needing deep freeze space. In contrast, the Pro-Ject Essential III offers a compact upright design that fits into smaller spaces with convenient shelf organization.

Chest-style freezers generally excel in thermal efficiency because cold air naturally settles at the bottom and does not escape when the lid is lifted. Compact upright models have lower total kilowatt-hour usage simply due to their smaller cubic volume, making both designs efficient for their respective intended purposes.

Both products are listed on Amazon with full manufacturer warranties, customer reviews, and fast delivery options. Click the "Check Price on Amazon" buttons in the comparison cards above to view today's latest promotions, verified customer ratings, and current availability.

Measure your available floor clearance first. If you have open space in a garage, basement, or utility room and want to freeze items in bulk, choose the Audio-Technica AT-LP120. If you have limited room in a kitchen, apartment, dorm, or office and prefer easy eye-level access to items, choose the Pro-Ject Essential III.