Audio-Techica AT-LP7 User manual

AT-LP7
User Manual
Belt-Drive Turntable
EN
Manuel de l’utilisateur
Tourne-disque à entraînement par courroie
FR
Bedienungsanleitung
Riemenbetriebener Plattenspieler
DE
Manuale dell’utente
Giradischi
IT
Manual de usuario
Giradiscos de tracción por correa
ES
Manual do Usuário
Toca-discos acionado por correia
PT
Руководство пользователя
Проигрыватель с ременным приводом
RU

1
Introduction
Thank you for purchasing this Audio-Technica product.
Before using the product, read through this user manual to ensure that you will use the product correctly. Please keep this manual for future
reference.
This product can be used only in the countries where the product is sold. Make sure that the operating voltage and the plug of AC adapter of the
product are correct for the country you live in.
Package contents
Make sure that you have all the included items listed below before using this product.
If some items are missing or damaged, contact your local Audio-Technica dealer.
• Turntable body • Dust cover • Platter
• Drive belt • Counterweight • Headshell (AT-HS10) with VM stereo
cartridge (VM520EB)
• AC adapter (Approx. 1.3 m (4.3'))
The AC adapter's plug can be removed.
• User manual (this document)
• 45 RPM adapter • RCA audio cable (Approx. 1.4 m (4.6'))
After purchase, we suggest that you save all packaging materials for possible future storage, moving, or shipping.

2
EN
Safety precautions
Important information
Warning:
To prevent fire or shock hazard, do not expose this apparatus to rain or
moisture.
Caution:
Do not expose this apparatus to drips or splashes.
To avoid electric shock, do not open the cabinet.
Refer servicing to qualified personnel only.
Do not expose this apparatus to excessive heat such as sunshine, fire
or the like.
Do not subject this apparatus to strong impact.
This apparatus should be located close enough to the AC outlet so
that you can easily grasp AC adapter at any time.
In case of emergency, disconnect the AC adapter quickly.
Do not place any objects filled with liquids, such as vases, on this
apparatus.
To prevent fire, do not place any naked flame sources (such as lighted
candles) on this apparatus.
Do not install this apparatus in a confined space such as a bookcase or
similar unit.
To install this apparatus only in the place where ventilation is good.
Notes on use
Turntable body
• Do not set and use the product in locations that are considerably hot
or humid, dirty, or subject to extreme vibrations.
• The product should be positioned on a flat, level surface.
Cartridge
• Lower the protector to protect the stylus when the product is not in
use.
• Do not touch the stylus of the cartridge with your finger.
• Do not allow the cartridge's stylus to bump against the platter or the
edge of the record.

3
Part names and functions
Overall diagram
8Pre-amplifier selector switch
If connecting to an amplifier's PHONO input jack, set this switch to
the PHONO position. If connecting to the AUX jack of an amplifier,
set this switch to the LINE position.
9Stereo output terminals
Connect the RCA audio cable. Connect it to either the amplifier's
PHONO input jack or its line input jack. The red terminal is the
right channel and the white terminal is the left channel.
10 MM (VM)/MC cartridge selector switch
If using an MM (VM) cartridge, set this switch to the MM position.
If using an MC cartridge, set this switch to the MC position.
11 Ground (earth) terminal
Connect the amplifier's ground (earth) terminal to this terminal
using the RCA audio cable's ground line.
12 Power input jack
Connect the AC adapter.
1Motor pulley
2Platter
3Spindle
4Power indicator
5Control knob
Use to start and stop, as well as select the platter's speed.
6Tonearm
For details, refer to “Tonearm” on p. 4.
7Feet
Adjust the level of the product.
7 7
6
1
2
3
4
5
8 9 10 11 12

4
EN
Part names and functions
Tonearm
1Counterweight
Balances the tonearm and adjusts to provide the proper tracking
force.
2Tracking force gauge ring
Use to adjust the tracking force.
3Tonearm lift
Moves the tonearm vertically to and from the face of the record.
4Tonearm rest with clamp
Use the clamp to secure the tonearm so that it does not move.
5Tonearm height setting lever
6Anti-skate control dial
While the record is playing, a force acts on the stylus tip to pull it
inward. This force can be counteracted by setting the same values
for anti-skate and the tracking force.
7Tonearm height adjustment dial
Use the adjustment dial to adjust the height of the tonearm.
8Tonearm lift control lever
Operates the tonearm lift.
9Tonearm
10 Locking ring
Rotate the ring to the left (counterclockwise) to secure the
headshell. To remove the headshell, rotate the ring to the right.
11 Headshell and cartridge
The cartridge (VM520EB) is attached to the headshell (AT-HS10).
4
5
7
8
6
1
3
2
9
10
11

5
Preparation for use
Placing the platter
This product requires some assembly before using it for the first time.
Do not connect the AC adapter until assembly is complete.
1. Set the platter on the spindle.
• To avoid damaging the spindle when seating the platter, align the positions
of the spindle and the platter's hole, and then slowly seat the platter.
• Make certain that the platter is fully seated on the spindle.
2. Attach the belt to the platter first, and then attach it to the motor
pulley.
• Make sure that the belt does not get twisted.
Setting up the turntable
• Position the product on a level surface.
• To avoid the effects of vibrations and acoustic pressure, do not
mount the product next to such items as speakers.
• The product may pick up radio static if placed next to a radio.
Therefore, try to keep the product away from radios.
• If the product is near equipment (cell phone, etc.) that emits strong
radio waves, noise may occur.
Leveling the turntable
1. After positioning the product where you want to use it, adjust the
feet so that the product is level.
• Use a level (sold separately) as needed to ensure that the product is level.
Assembling the tonearm
1. Remove the cable tie used to secure the tonearm at the time of
delivery.
• Use the clamp to temporarily secure the tonearm to the tonearm rest.
2. Insert the headshell into the tonearm.
• Hold the right and left edges of the headshell so that you do not damage
the stylus or cut the cartridge’s wires.
3. With the headshell inserted, turn the locking ring
counterclockwise (to the left).
4. With the tracking force gauge ring facing forward, attach the
counterweight to the back of the tonearm, and slowly turn it
counterclockwise (to the left).
Untwisted Twisted
Spindle
Platter
Belt
Motor pulley
Locking ring

6
EN
Preparation for use
Tonearm balance and tracking force
In order for the cartridge to pick up sound correctly from the record’s
grooves, the tonearm’s balance and tracking force must be adjusted
to fit the specifications of the cartridge. If the tonearm’s balance and
tracking force are not properly adjusted, the record or the cartridge’s
stylus may become damaged.
• Do not drag the cartridge’s stylus across the record or platter when
adjusting the tonearm’s balance or tracking force. Doing so may
damage the stylus.
Setting tonearm balance
1. While lightly holding the headshell so as not to move the
tonearm, remove the clamp.
• The tonearm is tilted because the balance has yet to be adjusted.
2. While still lightly holding the headshell, turn the counterweight to
adjust the tonearm’s balance.
• Adjust the balance so that the tonearm is level when you release the
headshell.
3. Return the tonearm to the tonearm rest.
Setting tracking force
1. While supporting the counterweight so that it does not move,
turn the tracking force gauge ring so that its “0” position lines up
with the centerline on the back of the tonearm.
• The tracking force is not adjusted simply by turning the tracking force
gauge ring.
2. Turn the counterweight and the tracking force gauge ring
together counterclockwise (to the left) until the centerline value
matches the recommended tracking force value for the cartridge
you are using.
• Refer to the cartridge maker’s specifications for the recommended tracking
force value.
• The tracking force value for the cartridge provided with this product is 2.0 g.
Setting the anti-skate adjustment
While the record is playing, a force acts on the stylus tip to pull it
inward. This force can be counteracted by setting the same values for
anti-skate and the tracking force.
1. Adjust the anti-skate control dial to have the same value as the
tracking force value.
• The tracking force value for the cartridge provided with this product is 2.0 g.
Tonearm Counterweight
Adjust so that tonearm is level
Clamp
Centerline
Tracking force
gauge ring

7
Preparation for use
Installing/removing the dust cover
• The dust cover is designed to protect the product's sensitive
components when the product is not in use. It should remain off
while records are playing.
• Using the dust cover during play may result in record damage or
sound degradation.
• Whenever putting on or taking off the dust cover, put it onto or take
it off of the body slowly.
Setting MM (VM)/MC Cartridge Selector Switch
If using a moving magnet (MM or VM) cartridge, set this switch to the
MM position. If using a moving coil (MC) cartridge, set this switch to
the MC position.
• This switch is set to the MM position at the time of purchase.
Because the cartridge (VM520EB) included with the product is a VM
stereo cartridge, keep the switch in the MM position as long as you
continue to use the cartridge.
Setting pre-amplifier selector switch
This product has a built-in phono equalizer function. You can use the
product, even if you do not have a phono amplifier or connectable
equipment with a built-in phono amplifier, by connecting an active
speaker, etc.
Use the pre-amplifier selector switch to set the output, as shown
below.
Connectable
equipment being
used
Position of
pre-amplifier
selector switch
Where to connect the
RCA audio cable
Device with phono
input
PHONO Phono input jack and
ground (earth) terminal of
connectable equipment
Device without
phono input
LINE AUX or line input jack of
connectable equipment
PC sound card LINE Sound card's line input
jack*
* An audio adapter (sold separately) may be required to connect the
RCA audio cable to the PC sound card's line input jack.
Connecting to connectable equipment (active
speakers, amplifiers, etc.)
Align the settings for the pre-amplifier selector switch and connect
the RCA audio cable to an input jack that is compatible with the
connectable equipment you are using (amplifier, receiver, active
speakers, sound card, etc.).
• The RCA audio cable's red jack is for the right (R) channel, and the
white jack is for the left (L) channel.
* Depending on the equipment you are connecting, a ground (earth)
terminal may exist near the phono input jack. If this is the case,
connect to it using the ground line from the RCA audio cable. This
will help prevent a low humming noise that might otherwise be heard
during playback.
Connecting the AC adapter
This product does not have a power switch. A standby current is
always running through the product, even when it is not being used;
disconnect the AC adapter from the outlet when not using the product
for a long period of time.
1. Connect the AC adapter's cord to power input jack.
2. Plug the AC adapter into an outlet.
• Make sure that the control knob is in the "STOP" position.
• If you play a record immediately after plugging the AC adapter into an
outlet, the sound that is played may be garbled. Wait a short time (about
30 seconds) after plugging the AC adapter into the outlet before playing a
record.
With PHONO input*
With PHONO input*
Without PHONO input
Without PHONO input
To outlet
To outlet
Connectable
equipment
(amplifier, etc.)

8
EN
Playing a record
Before playing a record
1. Return the cartridge's protector to its original up position.
• If the tonearm is fixed to the tonearm rest, remove the clamp.
2. Place the record on the platter so that the center hole aligns with
the spindle.
• If playing a 45 RPM record, attach the 45 RPM adapter (see the diagram to
the right below).
Playing a record
Lower the volume of the amplifier, speakers, etc., sufficiently.
1. Use the control knob to select the speed.
• Select “33” for a 33-⁄ RPM record, or “45” for a 45 RPM record.
• The platter begins spinning.
2. Raise the tonearm by lifting the tonearm lift control lever to the
UP position.
3. Position the tonearm over the desired location (groove) on the
record.
4. Lower the tonearm by moving the tonearm lift control lever to the
DOWN position. The tonearm descends slowly onto the record
and play begins.
• Alternatively, you can skip steps 2 to 4, and use your fingers to lift the
headshell, move the tonearm over the desired location on the record, and
then place the headshell down to begin playing the record.
• Do not subject the product to strong impact during playback.
Pausing the record
1. After lowering the volume of the amplifier, speakers, etc.,
sufficiently, lift the tonearm with the tonearm lift control lever.
Stopping the record
1. Lower the volume of the amplifier, speakers, etc., sufficiently.
2. Lift the tonearm lift control lever, return the tonearm to the
tonearm rest, and fix it with the clamp.
3. Turn the control knob to the "STOP" position.
• The platter slows down and rotation stops.
4. Remove the record after the platter has come to a complete stop.
• To prevent the record from becoming scratched or warped, remove it
after use.
• Do not use a platter other than the one provided.
• This product is not intended for DJs. Do not touch the record or the
platter while the record is playing.
Care
Turntable body
• When the turntable body is dirty or dusty, first disconnect the power
cable plug, and then wipe off the dirt and dust with a soft, dry cloth.
• Do not use benzenes, thinners, etc.
• When storing the product for a long time, disconnect the power
cable plug from the outlet and wrap the equipment in plastic; do not
allow it to become damp.
Stylus tip
• If dirt and grime are stuck to the stylus tip, clean it with a
commercially sold brush.
• We recommend using a stylus cleaner (sold separately) if the stylus
tip is considerably dirty. Clean the stylus tip by moving the brush
from the rear to the front of the stylus tip.
STOP
33
45
45-RPM
adapter
At 33-1/3 RPM At 45 RPM
Record
Platter
Tonearm lift
control lever
Protector

9
Replacing the stylus
Removing the stylus
• In addition to the deterioration of sound quality, records may also be
damaged as the cartridge’s stylus tip wears down.
• As a rule of thumb, replace the stylus after 300 hours of use.
• Be sure to disconnect the product’s power cable plug from the outlet.
1. Release the headshell from the tonearm.
• Fix the tonearm with the clamp and then remove the headshell gently.
2. After lowering the cartridge's protector, remove the stylus by
pulling in the direction of the arrow.
Installing a new replacement stylus
1. Mount the new replacement stylus to the cartridge.
2. Mount the headshell onto the tonearm.
Replacing a cartridge
Refer to the user manual for the cartridge that you will be using if you
are replacing the cartridge (VM520EB) included with this product with
another, commercially available cartridge. After you replace the old
cartridge with a new one, you must readjust the overhang and the
tonearm’s balance and tracking force.
1. Release the headshell from the tonearm.
• Use the clamp to secure the tonearm and then remove the headshell
gently.
2. Remove the stylus from the cartridge.
• Refer to “Removing the stylus” on p. 9.
3. Remove the lead tips.
• Be careful not to damage the lead tips.
4. Using a commercially sold, non-metallic slotted screwdriver,
remove the installation screws, and then remove the cartridge
from the headshell.
5. Refer to the user manual for the new cartridge for mounting
instructions and connecting to the lead tips.
6. Using a commercially sold, non-metallic slotted screwdriver,
tighten the screws in both places, and then adjust the overhang.
• Refer to "Adjusting the overhang" on p. 11.
• After the adjustments are complete, tighten the screws securely.
7. Attach the headshell to the tonearm.
8. Adjust the tonearm's height.
• Refer to “Adjusting the tonearm's height” on p. 10 while doing the
adjustments.
9. Adjust the tonearm balance and tracking force.
• Refer to “Tonearm balance and tracking force” from p. 6.
Lower
Pull
Align the position of the inner
protrusion.
Plastic washers
Installation screws
Nuts