Could this be Sony's swan song in the turntable world? The legendary electronics giant is diving back into vinyl after years of silence, but a major shift in their home entertainment division might mean these are the last turntables we see from Sony. This is huge news for audiophiles and casual listeners alike, but the timing is raising eyebrows. Let's explore what Sony's bringing to the table (pun intended!).
John Higgins, a seasoned AV reviewer with over 20 years of experience (formerly at Digital Trends and Reviewed), reports that Sony is launching not one, but two new turntables – their first since 2019. Meet the PS-LX3BT ($399.99) and the PS-LX5BT ($499.99), designed for ease of use and boasting both wired and hi-res Bluetooth audio capabilities. Think of the LX3BT as your entry-level ticket to vinyl bliss, and the LX5BT as a step up in performance and features.
So, what do these turntables offer? Both models come standard with a convenient one-button automatic playback feature. This means with a single press, the turntable will start spinning, the tonearm will gently lift and place itself on the record, and when the music ends, it'll automatically return to its resting position. No more fumbling or potential damage to your precious vinyl! They also include a transparent dust cover, letting you admire your colorful vinyl while it spins. Plus, a built-in switchable EQ allows you to choose between phono and line-level output, making them compatible with a wide range of audio systems. And this is the part most people miss: A USB output lets you digitize your vinyl collection, complete with a three-level output gain selector (low, mid, high) for optimal recording levels. Both turntables also support 96kHz/24-bit wireless aptX Adaptive hi-res Bluetooth audio, giving you the freedom to stream your vinyl wirelessly in high quality.
But here's where it gets controversial... The two models differ in some key areas. The PS-LX3BT utilizes a moving magnet cartridge with a stylus pressure of 3.5g. The higher-end PS-LX5BT features a high-precision moving magnet cartridge with a lighter 2g stylus pressure, which could potentially lead to less wear and tear on your records. Sony hasn't revealed who manufactures these cartridges, leaving some audiophiles wondering about their origin and quality. Are they sourced from a respected cartridge maker, or are they a more generic component? This could be a deal-breaker for some purists.
Furthermore, the LX5BT boasts detachable RCA cables (the LX3BT's are hardwired), providing greater flexibility for connecting to your audio setup. If the included cables aren't long enough, or if you prefer to use higher-quality cables, you have the option to swap them out. The LX5BT also features a lightweight aluminum platter with a rubber slip mat, designed to keep your records stable and minimize vibrations. Sony hasn't specified the platter or mat materials for the LX3BT, suggesting a possible difference in build quality. Finally, the step-up turntable uses higher-quality electronic components to further reduce noise and distortion, resulting in a cleaner and more detailed sound. Is the extra investment worth it for the improved components and features? That's a question every vinyl enthusiast will have to answer for themselves.
Now, for the elephant in the room: the future of Sony's home entertainment business. As reported by The Verge, Sony and TCL are exploring a joint venture that could see Sony's TV and home audio equipment operating under a new entity, with TCL holding the majority of shares. This raises serious questions about Sony's long-term commitment to the audio market. Could these turntables be a final farewell to vinyl from Sony as we know it? It's a sobering thought for fans of the brand.
The PS-LX3BT is available for preorder now with a February release, while the PS-LX5BT will be available in April. Will you be adding one of these turntables to your collection? What are your thoughts on Sony potentially partnering with TCL for their home entertainment division? Do you think this will impact the quality or innovation of their audio products in the future? Let us know in the comments below!
