Audio-Technica AT-LPW30BK vs Sony PS-HX500

Side-by-side specifications and a plain-English account of the recorded differences. Full profiles: Audio-Technica AT-LPW30BK · Sony PS-HX500.

Practical differences

Highlighted cells show a lower reference price, support for more listed speeds, or the presence of a convenience feature. They are not an overall score.

The Sony PS-HX500 undercuts the Audio-Technica AT-LPW30BK by £65 — £180 against £245, bearing in mind one figure is a current RRP and the other a typical used price that moves with condition.

Both are belt-drive, so that part of the experience should feel similar on either deck: a motor that's mechanically isolated from the platter by an elastic belt, which is the usual route to a quieter noise floor — the default choice across most of hi-fi.

The Sony PS-HX500 has a USB output for ripping vinyl.

The Sony PS-HX500 is discontinued, so that side of this comparison is really "used Sony PS-HX500 vs new Audio-Technica AT-LPW30BK" — factor in condition, service history and the lack of a warranty against a fresh unit with manufacturer support.

Bottom line: the Sony PS-HX500 has the lower reference price; the table shows which documented features change with the £65 gap.

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