Audio-Technica AT-LP1240-USB Direct-Drive Professional DJ Turntable

Available at Vinyl Sound in Toronto, Canada, the Audio-Technica AT-LP1240-USB is a professional-grade direct-drive DJ turntable built for the demands of nightclub, touring, and mobile DJ use — while being equally well-suited to home listening and vinyl-to-digital archiving. Its 16-pole, three-phase direct-drive motor delivers the high torque, instant start-up, and speed stability that professional DJ use demands, while a USB output enables direct LP-to-digital conversion with the included Audacity software. DJBooth called it "one of the best turntables out there" with "solid construction, super-strong motor, all the extra features a DJ can ask for." Positive Feedback's reviewer concluded: "If $500 were my limit for a turntable, this is what I'd buy."

16-Pole Direct-Drive Motor — Professional Torque and Speed Stability

The AT-LP1240-USB's 16-pole, three-phase direct-drive motor is the foundation of its professional credentials. Direct drive means the platter is coupled directly to the motor spindle — reaching operating speed near-instantly, with no belt to stretch, slip, or replace. The high pole count delivers the high-torque, consistent rotation speed that DJs require for cueing, back-spinning, and scratching without motor stress. The turntable operates at 33⅓, 45, and 78 RPM — one of the few in its class to include all three speeds — with adjustable pitch control and a quartz speed lock that returns to exact reference speed at the push of a button. Forward and reverse play are both supported.

USB Output — Vinyl to Digital Archiving

The USB output allows direct connection to a Mac or PC for vinyl-to-digital conversion. The included Audacity software (compatible with both Windows and macOS) records the audio and exports it as MP3, WAV, or other digital formats. USB output is at 16-bit / 44.1kHz or 48kHz via USB 1.1. This makes the AT-LP1240-USB a practical tool for digitising record collections, not just a DJ deck.

Built-In Switchable Phono Preamp

The AT-LP1240-USB includes a built-in switchable phono preamplifier — allowing connection directly to any amplifier, powered speaker, or audio interface with a line-level input (the vast majority of modern equipment). When switched to "phono," the signal bypasses the internal preamp and delivers a standard phono-level output for use with an external phono stage, providing greater flexibility for home hi-fi use.

Key Features

• 16-pole, three-phase direct-drive high-torque motor — professional DJ use
• Selectable 33⅓, 45, and 78 RPM speeds — electronic speed change
• Forward and reverse play
• Adjustable pitch control with quartz speed lock
• USB output for LP-to-digital conversion — includes Audacity software (Mac and PC)
• Built-in switchable phono preamplifier — use with any line-level input or dedicated phono stage
• S-shaped tonearm with adjustable tracking force (counterweight) and anti-skate
• Tonearm height adjustment and lockable tonearm rest for transport
• Hydraulically-damped tonearm lift lever
• Removable universal ½" headshell (cartridge sold separately)
• Professional anti-resonance, damped die-cast aluminium platter with stroboscopic speed markings
• Illuminated speed indicator and stroboscope
• Removable stylus target light for cueing in low light
• Dedicated tonearm grounding lug
• Start/stop button with adjustable start and brake control
• Detachable RCA output cables with ground wire
• DJ-style felt slip mat and dust cover included
• 45 RPM adapter included

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Audio-Technica AT-LP1240-USB come with a cartridge?

No. The AT-LP1240-USB ships with a universal ½" headshell but no cartridge — it must be purchased separately. The removable headshell accepts any standard ½" mount cartridge. Contact Vinyl Sound Toronto for cartridge recommendations suited to DJ or home listening use.

Can the AT-LP1240-USB be connected directly to powered speakers without a separate phono preamp?

Yes. The built-in switchable phono preamp allows direct connection to powered speakers, AV receivers, and other components with a line-level input. Switch the preamp selector to "line" to use the internal preamp. If you prefer to use a better external phono stage, switch to "phono" to bypass the internal preamp and output a standard phono-level signal.

Does the AT-LP1240-USB support 78 RPM records?

Yes — the AT-LP1240-USB is one of the few turntables in its class with all three speeds: 33⅓, 45, and 78 RPM. However, 78 RPM shellac records require a dedicated wide-contact 78 RPM stylus. Standard DJ or hi-fi cartridge styli will not correctly trace the larger 78 RPM groove and may damage the records. The removable headshell makes cartridge swapping between 78 and standard styli straightforward.

What software is included for vinyl-to-digital conversion?

The AT-LP1240-USB includes Audacity — a free, open-source audio recording and editing application compatible with Windows XP or later and macOS X or later. Audacity records the audio via USB and exports it as MP3, WAV, FLAC, or other formats. Other USB-compatible recording software can also be used in place of Audacity.

What is the difference between the AT-LP1240-USB and the newer AT-LP1240-USBXP?

The AT-LP1240-USBXP is the updated successor to the AT-LP1240-USB, featuring a redesigned matte-black finish and — critically — it ships with the AT-XP5 DJ cartridge and AT-HS1 headshell included. The underlying direct-drive motor, tonearm design, and core feature set are essentially the same. Contact Vinyl Sound Toronto to confirm which model is currently in stock.

Where can I buy the Audio-Technica AT-LP1240-USB in Toronto, Canada?

The Audio-Technica AT-LP1240-USB is available at Vinyl Sound in Toronto, Canada. Contact us for current pricing, cartridge recommendations, and availability.