Audio-Technica AT-LP7 Fully Manual Belt-Drive Turntable

Specifications

• BRAND: Audio-Technica
• CONNECTIVITY TECHNOLOGY: Wired
• COLOR: Black
• MATERIAL: Engineered Wood
• ITEM WEIGHT: 9.2 Kilograms
• MOTOR TYPE: AC Motor
• VOLTAGE: 110 Volts, 220 Volts
• TYPE: 2-speed, fully manual operation
• MOTOR: DC motor
• DRIVE METHOD: Belt drive
• SPEEDS: 33-1/3 RPM, 45 RPM
• WOW AND FLUTTER: <0.08% WRMS (33 RPM) at 3 kHz
• SIGNAL-TO-NOISE RATIO: >60 dB
• POWER SUPPLY REQUIREMENTS: 100 to 240 V AC, 50/60 Hz, 0.6 A max.
• WEIGHT: 8.3 kg (18.30 lbs.), without dust cover
• PRODUCT DIMENSIONS: 22 x 11 x 19 inches

Introduction

Industry experts who are seeking dependable lovingly created audio solutions for all budgets repeatedly rely on Audio-Technica products, whether they are used on the boardroom table, the stage, or in the studio. Professionals flock to Audio-Technica for solutions in conferencing, places of worship, broadcasting, live sound, recording studios, and other areas because of our dedication to innovation, customer service, and precise design. Hideo Matsushita established Audio-Technica in 1962, and it quickly established itself as a pioneer in the creation of cutting-edge audio devices. Tone arms, microphones, and headphones were developed as a result of its innovation expertise, which swiftly spread to numerous new fields. In those industries, Audio-Technica quickly rose to prominence.

Self-made and an enthusiast, he began making stereo cartridges by hand in his workshop. After 50 years, Audio-Technica has risen to the top of the audio innovation world. The founding father of Audio-Technica, whose influence on the firm’s philosophy is still apparent today, was a major inspiration for the legacy of the company, which is based on humility, enthusiasm, innovation, and sound knowledge. When Audio-Technica began creating headphones in the 1970s, it was able to capitalize on a history of invention, rigorous engineering, and creative design. The world now associates Audio-Technica audio equipment with consistently great sound performance, flawless build quality, and beautiful design.

PACKAGE CONTENTS

Make sure that you have all the included items listed below before using this product. If some items are missing or damaged, contact your local Audio-Technica dealer.

After purchase, we suggest that you save all packaging materials for possible future storage, moving, or shipping.

PART NAMES AND FUNCTIONS

OVERALL DIAGRAM

1. Motor pulley platter spindle
2. Power indicator
3. Control knob
4. Use to start and stop, as well as select the platter’s speed.
5. Tonearm
6. For details, refer to “Tonearm” on p. 4.
7. Feet
   Adjust the level of the product.
8. Pre-amplifier selector switch
   If connecting to an amplifier’s 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.
9. Stereo output terminals
   Connect the RCA audio cable. Connect it to either the amplifier’s PHONO input jack or its line input jack. The red terminal is the right channel and the white terminal is the left channel
10. MM (VM)/MC cartridge selector switch
    If using an MM (VM) cartridge, set this switch to the MM position. If using an MC cartridge, set this switch to the MC position.
11. Ground (earth) terminal
    Connect the amplifier’s ground (earth) terminal to this terminal using the RCA audio cable’s ground line.
12. Power input jack
    Connect the AC adapter.

PART NAMES AND FUNCTIONS

TONEARM

1. Counterweight
   Balances the tonearm and adjusts to provide the proper tracking force.
2. Tracking force gauge ring
   Use to adjust the tracking force.
3. Tonearm lift
   Moves the tonearm vertically to and from the face of the record.
4. Tonearm rest with clamp
   Use the clamp to secure the tonearm so that it does not move.
5. Tonearm height setting lever
6. Anti-skate control dial
   While the record is playing, a force acts on the stylus tip to pull it inward. This force can be counteracted by setting the same values for anti-skate and the tracking force.
7. Tonearm height adjustment dial
   Use the adjustment dial to adjust the height of the tonearm.
8. Tonearm lift control lever
   Operates the tonearm lift.
9. Tonearm
10. Locking ring
    Rotate the ring to the left (counterclockwise) to secure the headshell. To remove the headshell, rotate the ring to the right.
11. Headshell and cartridge
    The cartridge (VM520EB) is attached to the headshell (AT-HS10).

PREPARATION FOR USE

PLACING THE PLATTER

This product requires some assembly before using it for the first time. Do not connect the AC adapter until assembly is complete.

• Set the platter on the spindle.
• To avoid damaging the spindle when seating the platter, align the positions of the spindle and the platter’s hole, and then slowly seat the platter.
• Make certain that the platter is fully seated on the spindle.
  
• Attach the belt to the platter first, and then attach it to the motor pulley.
• Make sure that the belt does not get twisted.

SETTING UP THE TURNTABLE

• Position the product on a level surface.
• To avoid the effects of vibrations and acoustic pressure, do not mount the product next to such items as speakers.
• The product may pick up radio static if placed next to a radio. Therefore, try to keep the product away from radios.
• If the product is near equipment (cell phone, etc.) that emits strong radio waves, noise may occur.

LEVELING THE TURNTABLE

1. After positioning the product where you want to use it, adjust the feet so that the product is level.

• Use a level (sold separately) as needed to ensure that the product is level.

ASSEMBLING THE TONEARM

1. Remove the cable tie used to secure the tonearm at the time of delivery.
   Use the clamp to temporarily secure the tonearm to the tonearm rest.
2. Insert the headshell into the tonearm.
   Hold the right and left edges of the headshell so that you do not damage the stylus or cut the cartridge’s wires.
   
3. With the headshell inserted, turn the locking ring counterclockwise (to the left).
   
4. With the tracking force gauge ring facing forward, attach the counterweight to the back of the tonearm, and slowly turn it counterclockwise (to the left).

PREPARATION FOR USE

TONEARM BALANCE AND 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.

• Do not drag the cartridge’s stylus across the record or platter when adjusting the tonearm’s balance or tracking force. Doing so may damage the stylus.

SETTING TONEARM BALANCE

1. While lightly holding the headshell so as not to move the tonearm, remove the clamp.
   The tonearm is tilted because the balance has yet to be adjusted.
   
2. While still lightly holding the headshell, turn the counterweight to adjust the tonearm’s balance.
   Adjust the balance so that the tonearm is level when you release the headshell.
   
   
3. Return the tonearm to the tonearm rest.

SETTING TRACKING FORCE

1. While supporting the counterweight so that it does not move, turn the tracking force gauge ring so that its “0” position lines up with the centerline on the back of the tonearm.
   The tracking force is not adjusted simply by turning the tracking force gauge ring.
   
2. Turn the counterweight and the tracking force gauge ring together counterclockwise (to the left) until the centerline value matches the recommended tracking force value for the cartridge you are using
   Refer to the cartridge maker’s specifications for the recommended tracking force value.
   The tracking force value for the cartridge provided with this product is 2.0 g.
   

SETTING THE ANTI-SKATE ADJUSTMENT

While the record is playing, a force acts on the stylus tip to pull it inward. This force can be counteracted by setting the same values for the anti-skate and the tracking force.

1. Adjust the anti-skate control dial to have the same value as the tracking force value.
   The tracking force value for the cartridge provided with this product is 2.0 g.
   

PREPARATION FOR USE

INSTALLING/REMOVING THE DUST COVER

• The dust cover is designed to protect the product’s sensitive components when the product is not in use. It should remain off while records are playing.
• Using the dust cover during play may result in record damage or sound degradation.
• Whenever putting on or taking off the dust cover, put it onto or take it off of the body slowly.

SETTING MM (VM)/MC CARTRIDGE SELECTOR SWITCH

If using a moving magnet (MM or VM) cartridge, set this switch to the MM position. If using a moving coil (MC) cartridge, set this switch to the MC position.

• This switch is set to the MM position at the time of purchase. Because the cartridge (VM520EB) included with the product is a VM stereo cartridge, keep the switch in the MM position as long as you continue to use the cartridge.

SETTING PRE-AMPLIFIER SELECTOR SWITCH

This product has a built-in phono equalizer function. You can use the product, even if you do not have a phono amplifier or connectable equipment with a built-in phono amplifier, by connecting an active speaker, etc.

Use the pre-amplifier selector switch to set the output, as shown below.

Connectable equipment being used	Position of pre-amplifier selector switch	Where to connect the RCA audio cable
Device with phono input	PHONO	Phono input jack and ground (earth) terminal of connectable equipment
Device without phono input	LINE	AUX or line input jack of connectable equipment
PC sound card	LINE	Sound card’s line input jack*

An audio adapter (sold separately) may be required to connect the RCA audio cable to the PC sound card’s line input jack.

CONNECTING TO CONNECTABLE EQUIPMENT (ACTIVE SPEAKERS, AMPLIFIERS, ETC.)

Align the settings for the pre-amplifier selector switch and connect the RCA audio cable to an input jack that is compatible with the connectable equipment you are using (amplifier, receiver, active speakers, sound card, etc.).

• The RCA audio cable’s red jack is for the right (R) channel, and the white jack is for the left (L) channel
  
• Depending on the equipment you are connecting, a ground (earth) terminal may exist near the phono input jack. If this is the case, connect to it using the ground line from the RCA audio cable. This will help prevent a low humming noise that might otherwise be heard during playback.

CONNECTING THE AC ADAPTER

This product does not have a power switch. A standby current is always running through the product, even when it is not being used; disconnect the AC adapter from the outlet when not using the product for a long period of time.

1. Connect the AC adapter’s cord to the AC inlet.
2. Plug the AC adapter into an outlet.
   Make sure that the control knob is in the “STOP” position.
   If you play a record immediately after plugging the AC adapter into an outlet, the sound that is played may be garbled. Wait a short time (about 30 seconds) after plugging the AC adapter into the outlet before playing a record.

PLAYING A RECORD

BEFORE PLAYING A RECORD

1. Return the cartridge’s protector to its original up position.
   If the tonearm is fixed to the tonearm rest, remove the clamp
   
2. Place the record on the platter so that the center hole aligns with the spindle.
   If playing a 45 RPM record, attach the 45 RPM adapter (see the diagram to the right below).

PLAYING A RECORD

Lower the volume of the amplifier, speakers, etc., sufficiently.

1. Use the control knob to select the speed.
   Select “33” for a 33-1/3 RPM record, or “45” for a 45 RPM record.
   The platter begins spinning.
2. Raise the tonearm by lifting the tonearm lift control lever to the UP position.
   
3. Position the tonearm over the desired location (groove) on the record.
   
4. Lower the tonearm by moving the tonearm lift control lever to the DOWN position. The tonearm descends slowly onto the record and play begins.
   Alternatively, you can skip steps 2 to 4, and use your fingers to lift the headshell, move the tonearm over the desired location on the record, and then place the headshell down to begin playing the record.
   Do not subject the product to strong impact during playback.

PAUSING THE RECORD

After lowering the volume of the amplifier, speakers, etc., sufficiently, lift the tonearm with the tonearm lift control lever.

STOPPING THE RECORD

• Lower the volume of the amplifier, speakers, etc., sufficiently.
• Lift the tonearm lift control lever, return the tonearm to the tonearm rest, and fix it with the clamp.
• Turn the control knob to the “STOP” position.
• The platter slows down and rotation stops.
  
• Remove the record after the platter has come to a complete stop.

CARE

TURNTABLE BODY

• When the turntable body is dirty or dusty, first disconnect the power cable plug, 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 power cable plug from the outlet and wrap the equipment in plastic; do not allow it to become damp.

STYLUS TIP

• If dirt and grime are stuck to the stylus tip, clean it with a commercially sold brush.
• We recommend using a stylus cleaner (sold separately) if the stylus tip is considerably dirty. Clean the stylus tip by moving the brush from the rear to the front of the stylus tip.

REPLACING THE STYLUS

REMOVING THE STYLUS

• In addition to the deterioration of sound quality, records may also be damaged as the cartridge’s stylus tip wears down.
• As a rule of thumb, replace the stylus after 300 hours of use.
• Be sure to disconnect the product’s power cable plug from the outlet.

1. Release the headshell from the tonearm.
   Fix the tonearm with the clamp and then remove the headshell gently.
2. After lowering the cartridge’s protector, remove the stylus by pulling in the direction of the arrow.

INSTALLING A NEW REPLACEMENT STYLUS

1. Mount the new replacement stylus to the cartridge.
   
2. Mount the headshell onto the tonearm.

REPLACING A CARTRIDGE

Refer to the user manual for the cartridge that you will be using if you are replacing the cartridge (VM520EB) 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.

1. Release the headshell from the tonearm.
   Use the clamp to secure the tonearm and then remove the headshell gently.
2. Remove the stylus from the cartridge.
   Refer to “Removing the stylus” on p. 9.
3. Remove the lead tips.
   Be careful not to damage the lead tips.
4. Using a commercially sold, non-metallic slotted screwdriver, remove the installation screws, and then remove the cartridge from the headshell.
5. Refer to the user manual for the new cartridge for mounting instructions and connecting to the lead tips.
   
6. Using a commercially sold, non-metallic slotted screwdriver, tighten the screws in both places, and then adjust the overhang.
   Refer to “Adjusting the overhang” on p. 11.
   After the adjustments are complete, tighten the screws securely.
7. Attach the headshell to the tonearm.
8. Adjust the tonearm’s height.
   Refer to “Adjusting the tonearm’s height” on p. 10 while doing the adjustments.
9. Adjust the tonearm balance and tracking force.

REPLACING THE BELT

• The belt is a consumable part. Replace the belt if the speed of playback slows down or irregular rotation occurs. As a rule of thumb, we suggest replacing the belt once a year.
• Before replacing the belt, be sure to disconnect the product’s power cable plug from the outlet.

1. Remove the old belt.
2. Attach the new belt to the platter first, and then attach it to the motor pulley.
   When attaching the belt to the motor pulley, make sure that the belt does not get twisted.

ADJUSTING THE TONEARM’S HEIGHT

When installing a cartridge other than the one provided, you must maintain a suitable distance between the cartridge and the surface of the record. Place the stylus on the record and confirm that the tonearm is parallel to the record’s surface. If it is not parallel, adjust the height of the tonearm.

1. Rotate the tonearm’s height setting lever to loosen the tonearm’s anchor.
   
2. Rotate the tonearm’s height adjustment dial and adjust the tonearm’s height.
   
3. After the adjustments are complete, rotate the tonearm’s height setting lever to set the tonearm.

ADJUSTING THE OVERHANG

The position of the cartridge must be accurately determined (adjusting the overhang) when mounting a cartridge or headshell other than the one provided.

1. Mount the cartridge so it is parallel to the headshell.
   Match up the positions of the cartridge and headshell to the figure below and mount the cartridge so it is parallel to the headshell.

OVERHANG ADJUSTMENT GUIDE

This illustration represents the actual size.

Place the headshell on the figure below, and then adjust the stylus tip of the new cartridge along the lines for the “Stylus tip” of the cartridge.

• Mount the cartridge so it is perpendicular to the top of the headshell.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What about Audio Technica turntables?
  It includes a built-in preamp, so the only other component you’ll need to use it is a powered speaker, and its manufacturer, Audio-Technica, has a stellar reputation in the industry. It also has a USB output that lets you connect it to your computer in case you want to back up your record. It’s now even better.
• Has the turntable from Audio Technica had an auto return?
  The user can simply click “Start” on the AT-LP60 and AT-LP3 fully automatic machines before leaving. When the record is done, the tone arm will automatically lift out of the rest, place itself on the record, then lift back into the rest and stop.
• Do records get damaged by Audio-Technica?
  They not only sound horrible, but they can also harm your records. An Audio-Technica AT-LP120-USB turntable with a built-in phono preamp and a USB connection costs $249. It has good sound and the option to be upgraded with better cartridges in the future.
• Are speakers required for an Audio-Technica turntable?
  To connect to your turntable, you do indeed need speakers. To project the sound, speakers are required. You have the option of passive or powered/active speakers. Because passive speakers lack an internal amplifier, you will need to supply a separate amplifier to power them.
• Is there a preamp on my Audio-Technica turntable?
  The integrated RIAA preamp found in every turntable in Audio-current Technica’s lineup can be activated or deactivated by the user via the PHONO/LINE switch found on the turntable’s back.
• Is an amplifier required for the Audio Technica?
  Yes, given that the turntable lacks an integrated speaker. It does, however, contain a built-in amplifier. So, you don’t need a standalone amplifier or amplifier/receiver. However, you do need a speaker with its own power supply, such as a computer speaker or some of the more powerful portable stereo speakers currently available.
• My Audio Technica is so silent; why?
  Record players are naturally silent. They generate an electrical signal that needs to be amplified twice since it is so weak. It is first internally or externally amplified by a preamp, bringing it up to the same line level as a CD player. To make it heard through your speakers, it must then be amplified once more.
• How can I spin up my Audio Technica?
  Press the STOP button, then let go. Use your other hand to carefully turn the aluminum record platter clockwise for at least 10 full revolutions while holding the tonearm in the tonearm rest with one hand. On the record platter, place a record.
• Does Audio-Technica work well with vinyl?
  The Audio-Technica AT-LP60 is the greatest record player turntable for discovering vinyl records without having a lot of prior knowledge. It merely has a few playback buttons and creates some extremely nice sound. It is also extremely reasonably priced!
• Can your records be damaged by a cheap turntable?
  A tonearm on inexpensive turntables frequently has a set angle and no weight adjustability. The record will be harmed if a cartridge that requires a different angle or tracking weight is placed, or if the correct stylus is installed improperly.

References

• User Manual