Sony PS-LX310BT has solid build quality and reliable performance. Its Bluetooth connectivity allows seamless wireless streaming, making it a versatile addition to any audio setup. The fully automatic operation is user-friendly. While it may lack some high-end audiophile features, the combination of modern convenience and classic vinyl sound offers excellent value for the price. Overall, the PS-LX310BT is a great choice for enjoying a vinyl collection with contemporary ease.
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Contents
Intro
In today’s world, where digital music streaming is everywhere, it’s amazing to see vinyl records making a comeback. The Sony PS-LX310BT turntable is a great example of how old-school vinyl can mix perfectly with modern technology. This turntable lets you enjoy the classic sound of vinyl records while offering the convenience of wireless connectivity.
The PS-LX310BT caught my eye with its sleek design and solid build. It’s perfect for those who love the feel of vinyl but also want the ease of modern devices. With Bluetooth, you can connect it to wireless speakers or headphones without any hassle.
In this review, I’ll walk you through the design, features, performance, and overall value of the Sony PS-LX310BT. Whether you’re a long-time vinyl fan looking for an upgrade or a newbie wanting to dive into the world of records, this review will help you understand what this turntable has to offer.
Sony PS-LX310BT Specifications
General Features
- Power Consumption: 1.8 W
- Auto Standby: –
- Power Requirement: AC 100-240V, 50/60 Hz
- AC Adaptor: Yes
- Attachment: 45 rpm adaptor
Turntable
- ARM Pipe Material: Aluminum
- Auto Return: Yes
- Auto Start: Yes
- Auto Stop: Yes
- Cartridge Type: MM
- Drive system: Belt-drive
- Earth Terminal: No
- Exchangeable Headshell: No
- GAIN SELECT: Low (-4 dB) / Mid (0 dB) / High (+6 dB)
- Line Out (Built-in phono preamp): Yes
- Phono Output: Yes
- Phono/Line Selector Switch: Yes
- Platter: 11.65” dia. aluminum die-cast
- RCA Terminal or Cables: RCA cable
- Speed: 33 1/3 rpm, 45 rpm
- USB connector: Output port Type-B
Size & Weight
- WEIGHT (kg): approx 3.5 kg
- Dimension (WxHxD inches): 17” x 4 3/8” x 14 1/2”
- Dimension (WxHxD mm): 430 mm x 108 mm x 367 mm
- Weight (pound): 7 Ib 11 1/2 oz
You can download & view the manual here->Sony PS-LX310BT Manual
Construction & Design
The unique design of the Sony turntable encapsulates well-known high-volume drive technology that can also be found in other fully automatic players. The 310BT starts the playback process with just one touch of a button and stops it at any time if you wish. The touchdown point for the needle is not linked to the speed but can be selected separately.
Only with ten inches, i.e. records with the rare 25mm diameter you have to manually guide your tonearm to the right place and lower it onto the record. At the end of the record, the player automatically raises its tonearm, returns it to its start position, and switches off the motor. It couldn’t be more comfortable.
There are better sounding players for the money than this Sony. On the other hand, the PS-LX310BT always sounds unobtrusive, is excellently equipped and also looks good.
All of the player’s movements – from the platter rotation to lowering the tonearm – are powered by a single small DC motor. The mechanics required for this are correspondingly complex but are considered reliable if you operate them with some sensitivity and due calm. The platter is made of thin-cast aluminum and is packed separately. So you still have to put it on the plate axle and stretch the belt over the motor shaft. Once you have done that, the mat comes on top. It is made of textile-covered foam and embeds the platter lying on it softly and gently.
Tonearm & Cartridge
The tonearm of the PS-LX310BT does not inspire confidence. The large caliber aluminum tube with a J-bend is completely OK and more elegant than on other fully automatic machines. But what it lacks is a counterweight or any adjustment option. The tracking force is therefore not changeable. With my Ortofon DS3 precision scales, I measured 4.2 grams. That’s a bit too much and no longer gentle on the vinyl. However, it ensures that the tonearm sits stably in the groove and that all records are played reliably in the test.
Sony PS-LX310BT uses an Audio-Technica MM cartridge with a spherical diamond needle, which has also proven itself in other players. Replacement needles can be obtained easily and inexpensively in the long term because the AT original ATN-3600L fits just as well as the Sony spare part.
Bluetooth Connectivity
Instead of using a cable, you can also listen wirelessly with the Sony player. An integrated Bluetooth transmitter transmits the music to your choice of Bluetooth headphones or speakers. And that even sounds pretty good – also because Sony supports the HiFi-optimized BT codec aptX.
The level adjustment of the integrated preamp is also beneficial to the sound. Unlike digital media, vinyl does not have a technically defined maximum volume. Some LPs or SPs are significantly louder than the norm, while others are quieter. Sony has built a three-stage sensitivity switch into the 310 to reproduce such special cases as best as possible.
Sony PS-LX310BT Sound Test
For players with a switchable phono preamp, I always try both options – with and without the built-in preamp. In most cases, the first option turns out to be better in terms of sound, because the external preamp cannot play to its full potential. So also with the Sony. Ideally, you connect it to a free line input like a CD player and leave the selector switch on the rear in the “Line” position. In this mode, the Sony sounds very warm and soft, which is exactly what one would expect from an analog player. Records that were already produced in the studio with a somewhat thin sound (and there are many of those) become more enjoyable, while well-recorded records lose their appeal.
- EASY OPERATION: Effortlessly enjoy your favorite records with one-step auto start, stop and return.Power source:...
- TWO SPEEDS: 33 1/3 rpm and 45 rpm, with the 45 rpm adaptor stowed neatly in a slot beneath the deck
- HIGH QUALITY AUDIO: Built in switchable phono output / line out phono preamp and 3 gain settings
- USB RIPPING: Rip vinyl records to digital MP3 files on your computer to take a favorite LP on the go
- WIRELESS CONNECTION: Connect to wireless speakers, headphones or other Bluetooth enabled devices. Supports phono and...
However, the warm sound here results from a certain lack of high-frequency resolution. With pop music, this hardly bothers, especially since the player does not have a real deep bass, which brings the tonal balance back on track. But if you don’t make audiophile demands on the sound, the LX310BT convinces you with a solid performance. This is not least because the synchronization is pleasingly stable and the drive is pleasantly quiet: Nick Cave’s solo concert Idiot Prayer, on which the singer only accompanies himself with a grand piano, comes across as quite impressive. During the breaks, you can sense the rushing of the air in the large, empty concert hall, but you can’t hear a noise from the engine. This is unusual for such a light, mostly plastic record player.
Sony PS-LX310BT Video Review
Final Verdict
In the price range of the PS-LX310BT, you need to choose carefully. So if you’re looking for uncompromisingly the best sound for the money, you’re more likely to buy a player where the budget doesn’t have to extend to Bluetooth and is fully automatic as well. However, if you want to enjoy your music via your Bluetooth speakers or headphones, the Sony PS-LX310BT is a very nicely designed player with comfort features for your money.
Is the Sony PS-LX310BT good?
Sony PS-LX310BT turntable is a great value for casual playing— especially at the current price. It has everything you'd want including automatic operation, an MM cartridge, a pre-amp with variable output level, and rock-solid Bluetooth wireless streaming. Audio is excellent for a turntable in this price range.
Does the Sony PS-LX310BT require a preamp?
The PS-LX310BT has multiple options for connection. There's a built-in phono preamp so you can plug it directly into a line input on a receiver. You can disable the built-in preamp with the flick of a switch and use your own phono preamp. There's a USB output for the digital archiving of your collection.
Crackling Sound was created to provide straightforward, unbiased reviews of audio products, catering to those who want excellent sound without delving into complex audiophile terms. I aim to simplify the decision-making process for my readers.
As an audio enthusiast and self-builder for over 20 years, I ensure my reviews are honest, highlighting both advantages and disadvantages. I conduct sound tests to deliver comprehensive and reliable information about various audio devices. My extensive experience in DIY projects, experimenting, installing, and using high-end audio gear helps me provide thorough and comparative reviews.