Hasta La Gadget!

If you’re looking for a way to get your old records onto your computer, or if you’re a DJ and you want to make the switch from vinyl to mp3 decks, Audio-Technica has an array of USB turntables that will make sure you get the best possibly audio quality when you rip those old analog records to a digital format. The Audio-Technica AT-LP60-USB belt-driven turntable is designed for DJs on a budget that need a quick way to get their music onto their computers. At $229 retail, the AL-LP60-USB gives you a simple USB audio output, included cartridge and dust cover, and the ability to switch easily between 7 and 12-inch platters at 33 1/3 and 45 RPM records.

DJ or musicians who want more professional features should look at the Audio-Technica AT-LP120-USB; a direct drive model that will appeal to most club DJs who are used to direct drive models over audiophiles who prefer lower-noise belt-driven turntables. The AT-LP120-USB is $429 list, has all of the features of the AT-LP60-USB, adds 78 RPM to the RPM selector, and gives you the flexibility to use the turntable both for mixing and for audio capture.

If you can wait and have $499 US to spend, Audio-Technica will release the AT-LP240-USB in September, which brings all of the same features of the LP120 to a higher-end package that’s designed for both professional and basement DJs who want to connect their turntables to their computers, their home entertainment system, and a mixer at home or at their next gig. Each turntable model comes with a dust-cover and a cartridge, and is supported as a plug-and-play audio device in Windows and Mac OS X.