After seven years, Sony has reentered the Bluetooth turntable arena. This spring, they unveiled the Sony PS-LX3BT ($399.99) and the Sony PS-LX5BT ($499.99), successors to the original PS-LX310BT record player.

These latest models have significant expectations to meet. The PS-LX310BT was a favored option for newcomers due to its straightforward setup, automatic functionality, and sleek design. Additionally, it frequently retailed for under $200 during sales.

I have never owned the PS-LX310BT. For the past ten years, I’ve used a basic wired, manual turntable, which has been mostly dependable save for some occasional needle concerns. I was satisfied with it until I spent a month with the new PS-LX3BT. It was so striking that I hesitated to return it after testing. If you’re a newcomer to vinyl and seeking a dependable plug-and-play turntable, Sony remains the best choice.

Sony PS-LX3BT review: Setup and experience

The PS-LX3BT arrives in various components and might appear intimidating at first, but putting it together is uncomplicated. You attach the aluminum platter, connect a rubber belt to the motor pulley, place a slip mat on top, and snap hinges onto the plastic dust cover. Sony’s instructions are straightforward, and plenty of setup tutorials are available on YouTube if needed.

The PS-LX3BT operates with a belt-drive mechanism, meaning its motor is separate from the platter, linked by a belt. This configuration minimizes vibration, maintaining audio fidelity, although the belt might require replacement over time. Direct-drive turntables, which have motors connected to the platter, are generally more robust and consistent but can produce noise. DJs often prefer direct-drive, yet belt-driven turntables are more cost-effective and suitable for most users.

I detected a mechanical sound when the PS-LX3BT was powered on, but it became inaudible once a record was played. This may only concern true audiophiles.

Using the PS-LX3BT is effortless. Press the “Bluetooth” button on its base to link to a wireless speaker, soundbar, or headphones. An indicator light turns blue when connected.

You may also link the PS-LX3BT to wired speakers if you’re worried about latency or audio quality. It includes an attached audio cable and a built-in phono preamp, allowing you to simply plug in your speakers.

After connecting to an audio device, press the green “Start” button on the plinth. The record spins, and the tonearm automatically moves, drops, and begins play from the start. When the record concludes, the tonearm returns to its holder. Some mechanical sounds occur, but it’s hassle-free.

The PS-LX3BT accommodates 12-inch albums or 7-inch singles at 33 1/3 or 45 RPM. Knobs on the plinth allow you to switch sizes and speeds. Sony provides an adapter for 7-inch records, stored within the plinth.

The PS-LX3BT’s rear connections feature a USB-B port for transferring vinyl tracks to a laptop. I didn’t have a USB-B cable to try this, but it’s a handy option for digitizing exclusive tracks and releases.

For an additional $100, the PS-LX5BT provides a detachable audio cable, a thicker slip mat, and a gold-plated audio jack for a premium wired connection. Its plinth is black, in contrast to the dark gray of the PS-LX3BT.

The PS-LX5BT also comes with a lighter, removable cartridge that’s set to a tracking force of two grams, as opposed to the PS-LX3BT’s 3.5 grams. Lighter cartridges lead to less wear on vinyl.

An ideal tracking force ranges from one to three grams, making the PS-LX3BT’s cartridge slightly heavy. It isn’t adjustable, but certain users have modified their turntables for reduced tracking force.

Sony PS-LX3BT vs. Sony PS-LX310BT: What has changed?

My sister has the PS-LX310BT, prompting me to compare it with the PS-LX3BT. The latter represents an incremental update with subtle differences.

Differences include:
– The PS-LX3BT is compatible with AptX and AptX Adaptive Bluetooth codecs.
– The PS-LX310BT’s buttons are flush, while the PS-LX3BT’s are raised.
– The PS-LX310BT has dials that are knobs on the PS-LX3BT.
– The dust cover of the PS-LX310BT is smoky gray, whereas the PS-LX3BT has a clear one.

The PS-LX310BT was introduced at $449.99 but often sold for significantly less. It’s still worth purchasing at a lower price, though availability is limited.

If you possess the PS-LX310BT, there is no necessity to upgrade to the PS-LX3BT. The design modifications are minimal, and the tonearm