Turntables Comparison: Audio-Technica AT-LP120 vs Sony PS-HX500

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
  • USB 1
Sony PS-HX500

Sony PS-HX500

  • Brand Sony
  • Frequency Response, Hz 20 - 20000
  • Weight, Kg/pounds 2.8/6.2
  • Power Consumption, W 3
  • USB 1

Quick Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?

Deciding between the Audio-Technica AT-LP120 and the Sony PS-HX500 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

Sony PS-HX500

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

Sony PS-HX500

VS

Pros

    • This model comes with the Sony software which facilitates the process of vinyl ripping. It is compatible with Apple Garageband.
    • The assembly process is easy and fast – follow the manual.
    • The audio quality is amazing (excellent quality from the RCA audio out).
    • Electronic speed selector is convenient for moving from albums to singles.
    • Parallel lines at the top simplify cartridge alignment.

Cons

    • The tonearm is manual and it does not return when it reaches the end. No auto-stop.
    • Recording software is incompatible with the latest version of Mac iOS.

Specifications

Specification Audio-Technica AT-LP120 Sony PS-HX500
Motor
Drive Method direct belt
Wow & Flutter (WRMS), % 0.2 0.25
Torque >1.6 kgf-cm >1.6 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 Pre-amp "PHONO": 3 mV nominal at 1 kHz. Pre-amp "LINE": 190 mV nominal at 1 kHz
Gain 36 —
Signal To Noise Ratio, DB 50 50
Frequency Response, Hz 20 - 20000 20 - 20000
Features
45 RPM Adapter Yes Yes
Dust Cover Yes Yes
Other has not AC adaptor
Stylus
Model ATN95E ATN-3601
Type dual magnet moving magnet (MM)
Replaceable Yes Yes
Connections
Other has not AC adaptor
RCA 1 1
USB 1 1
Cartridge
Supplied Headshell Weight, G 2,5 3
Appropriate Needle Pressure, G 1,5 2,5
Type dual magnet moving magnet (MM)
Controls
Braking System electronic electronic
Pitch Variation, % +/-10 or +/-20 No
Pitch Control Yes No
Operation Type full manual manual
Dimensions
Weight, Kg/pounds 10.6/23.5 2.8/6.2
Size, Cm/inches 15.2 x 45.2 x 35.3/ 6 x 17.8 x 13.9 10.4 x 43 x 36.6/6.2 x 18.5 x 16.3
Power
Power Consumption, W 11 3

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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 Sony PS-HX500 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 Sony PS-HX500.