STACK #239 September 2024

TECH REVIEW

visit jbhifi.com.au/stack

REVIEW

For decades, Audio-Technica has been producing quality turntables and accessories for vinyl enthusiasts across the globe. And now, the go-to brand for beginners and audiophiles alike has launched a brand-new pair of bookshelf speakers. So, what’s the deal? Words Paul Jones P owered bookshelf speakers have become more popular over recent years, offering the convenience of a built-in amp for plug-and-play, wired or Bluetooth connectivity, portability, and, most importantly, cost effectiveness. AUDIO-TECHNICA AT-SP3X BOOKSHELF SPEAKERS

Bluetooth: 5.3 Maximum output: 30W

just 200mm high, 125mm wide, and 136mm deep. On the back of the powered unit are two speaker ports, RCA inputs, a power socket, a Bluetooth pairing button, and a USB input. Inset on the speaker's side is a power button and volume control. Connection is a breeze and can be done in under five minutes. Inside, the speakers each have a 2-inch woofer and 1.1-inch tweeters that, according to Audio Technica, have been tuned by a built-in DSP for a ‘powerful, well-balanced sound’. So, how does the sound stack up? For the size of the speakers, you won't be disappointed with the power here. A big bottom end and clean, crystal-clear highs produce an excellent, well-balanced soundstage that effortlessly caters to many musical genres. We ran jazz, metal, indie, and pop records through them, reporting good detail, depth, engaging dynamics, and punchy bass. And they are loud - the kind of loud without distortion. We tested them in a small office space, in a large living room, and even outside in the garden. The AT-SP3Xs are a one-size-fits-all bookshelf speaker that performed well in all the above spaces. It’s worth remembering that while we predominantly tested these speakers listening to vinyl and streaming music, they also switch in as a great option for gaming and binge watching a season on Netflix, or enjoying a 4K movie. The AT-SP3Xs are the ideal audio solution for the turntable enthusiast who wants good sound without paying a boutique price for a pair of speakers. These will work in most spaces, take up very little real estate, and have a design aesthetic that will blend in. Along with exceptional sound for their size, the wired and Bluetooth connectivity offers flexibility for the user at a price you won’t need to lie to your partner about. What’s not to like about that?

Interest in vinyl continues to trend north, so the desire for audio equipment that won’t upend the savings plan and offers great bang for your buck has never been greater. That’s where we see the AT-SP3X as a perfect dovetail, because if you’re buying vinyl, you want to appreciate its sound. You'll need a turntable with a built-in pre amp to get your records playing through these bookshelf speakers. A built-in pre-amp excludes the need for an external amplifier – the turntable plugs directly into the speakers via RCA cables, and the amplifier within the powered bookshelf speakers (hence the word powered) does

the rest. If you’re yet to buy a turntable, opt for a model with a built-in pre-amp. The AT-SP3Xs offer two connection options, depending on where you intend to set them up. The first is wired. If your turntable is relatively close

to the speakers, you can connect directly with an RCA cable. Speaker wire is included in the box. Bluetooth connectivity allows users to spread the speakers further apart and connect to other audio sources, such as a smartphone or laptop. The AT-SP3Xs also have multipoint functionality so that you can hook up to a laptop and a smartphone without the hassle of reconnecting. Presented in a matte minimalist black finish, the speakers stand at

42 SEPTEMBER 2024

jbhifi.com.au