Audio-Techica AT-LPW50PB User manual

AT-LPW50PB
User Manual
Belt-Drive Turntable

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 • Rubber mat
• Platter (with drive belt) • Dust cover hinges • Counterweight
• Headshell (AT-HS4 BK) with VM
stereo cartridge (AT-VM95E BK)
• 45 RPM adapter • RCA audio cable (Approx. 1.0 m (3.3'))
• AC adapter (Approx. 1.5 m (4.9'))
• Quick start guide
• Caution guide
After purchase, we suggest that you save all packaging materials for possible future storage, moving, or shipping.

2
Safety precautions
Although this product was designed to be used safely, failing to use
it correctly may result in an accident. To ensure safety, observe all
warnings and cautions while using the product.
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 the 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.
• Install this apparatus only in the place where ventilation is good.
• The rating label is put on the bottom of this apparatus.
For customers in the USA
FCC Notice
Warning:
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is
subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause
harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference
received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
Caution:
You are cautioned that any changes or modifications not expressly
approved in this manual could void your authority to operate this
equipment.
Note: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with
the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC
Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection
against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment
generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not
installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause
harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no
guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If
this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television
reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and
on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or
more of the following measures:
– Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
– Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
– Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that
to which the receiver is connected.
– Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
Contact:
Responsible Company: Audio-Technica U.S., Inc.
Address: 1221 Commerce Drive, Stow, Ohio 44224, USA
Tel: [phone]
For customers in Canada
IC statement:
CAN ICES-3 (B)/NMB-3(B)

3
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.
• When closing the dust cover, close it completely.
Cartridge
• Attach the provided protector to the cartridge when the product is
not in use.
• Do not touch the stylus of the cartridge with your finger.
• Do not allow the stylus to bump against the platter, rubber mat, or
edge of the record.

4
Part names and functions
Overall diagram
9Ground (earth) terminal
Connect the amplifier's ground (earth) terminal to this terminal
using the RCA audio cable's ground conductor.
10 Stereo 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.
11 Output 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.
12 Power input jack
Connect the AC adapter.
13 Power switch
Switch ON/OFF.
14 Dust cover hinge holder
Attachment points for dust cover hinges.
1Platter
2Drive belt
3Motor pulley (brass-colored)
4Spindle
5Rubber mat
6Control knob
Use to start and stop, as well as select the platter's speed.
7Tonearm
For details, refer to “Tonearm” on p. 5.
8Feet
Adjust the level of the product.
8 8
7
1
2
3
4
5
6
9 11 12 1414 1310

5
Part names and functions
Tonearm
1Counterweight
Balances the tonearm and adjusts to provide the proper tracking
force.
2Tracking force gauge ring
Use to adjust and set 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.
5Anti-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.
6Tonearm lift control lever
Operates the tonearm lift.
7Tonearm
8Locking ring
Rotate the ring to the left (counterclockwise) to secure the
headshell. To remove the headshell, rotate the ring to the right.
9Headshell and cartridge
The cartridge is attached to the headshell.
4
5
7
8
9
6
1
3
2

6
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.
• Make sure that the control knob is in the "STOP" position.
• To avoid damaging the spindle when seating the platter, align the position
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.
Spindle
Platter
2. Install the belt to the platter drive ring under the platter making
sure the belt is flat when seated, and then attach the belt to the
motor pulley (brass-colored).
• Make sure that the belt does not get twisted.
Belt
Motor pulley
(brass-colored)
Untwisted Twisted
3. Place the rubber mat on top of the platter.
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.

7
Preparation for use
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).
Locking ring
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).
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 rubber mat
when adjusting the tonearm’s balance or tracking force. Doing so
may damage the stylus.
Setting tonearm balance
1. Remove the cartridge’s protector.
2. Unlock the tonearm and lift the tonearm lift control lever.
• The tonearm is tilted because the balance has yet to be adjusted.
3. Place the tonearm over the rubber mat. Hold the headshell and
lower the tonearm lift control lever completely.
• Protect the stylus from touching the rubber mat.
4. 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.
5. Return the tonearm to the tonearm rest.

8
Preparation for use
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.
0
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 the product is 2.0 g.
2
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 the product is 2.0 g.
Installing/removing the dust cover
The dust cover is designed to protect the product's sensitive
components when the product is not in use.
When attaching the dust cover, insert the dust cover hinges into the
two dust cover hinge holders on the back of the body. When removing
the dust cover, open the dust cover first, and then slowly pull the dust
cover out from the dust cover hinge holders.
For best performance, remove the dust cover when playing records.
Setting output 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 output selector switch to set the output, as shown below.
Connectable
equipment being
used
Position of
output 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.

9
Preparation for use
Connecting to connectable equipment (active
speakers, amplifiers, etc.)
Align the settings for the output selector switch and connect the RCA
audio cable to a compatible input jack on 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.
AUX
L R
PHONO
L R
With PHONO input*
With PHONO input*
Without PHONO input
Without PHONO input
To outlet
To outlet
Connectable
equipment
(amplifier, etc.)
* 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
may help prevent a low humming noise that might otherwise be
heard during playback.
Connecting the AC adapter
1. Connect the AC adapter's cord to the power input jack.
2. Plug the AC adapter into an outlet.
• Make sure that the power switch is in the “OFF” position and the control
knob is in the "STOP" position. If the power switch is in the “ON” position
with the AC adapter connected to the outlet, a standby current will always
run through the product even when it is not being used.
• 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.

10
Playing a record
Before playing a record
1. Remove the cartridge’s protector.
• If the tonearm is fixed to the tonearm rest, remove the clamp.
Protector
2. Place the record on the rubber mat so that the center hole aligns
with the spindle.
• If playing a 45 RPM record, attach the 45 RPM adapter (see the diagram
below).
At 33-1/3 RPM
Record
45-RPM
adapter
At 45 RPM
Playing a record
Lower the volume of the amplifier, speakers, etc. sufficiently.
1. Turn the power switch on.
2. 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 to rotate.
3. Raise the tonearm by lifting the tonearm lift control lever to the
UP position.
4. Position the tonearm over the desired location (groove) on the record.
5. 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.

11
Playing a record
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.
3. Return the tonearm to the tonearm rest and fix it with the clamp.
4. Turn the control knob to the "STOP" position.
• The platter slows down and rotation stops.
5. 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.
• The product is not intended for DJs. Do not touch the record or the
rubber mat while the record is playing.
Care
Turntable body
• When the turntable body is dirty or dusty, first disconnect the AC
adapter from the outlet and then wipe off the dirt and dust with a
soft, dry cloth.
• If the rubber mat gets dirty, it can easily scratch the record, so
remove the rubber mat periodically and wipe off any dust.
• Do not use benzenes, thinners, etc.
• When storing the product for a long time, disconnect the AC adapter
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 before each use.
• 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.

12
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 AC adapter from the outlet.
• When replacing the stylus, hold the headshell and the cartridge body
tightly.
1. Release the headshell from the tonearm.
• Fix the tonearm with the clamp and then remove the headshell gently.
2. After removing the cartridge's protector, remove the stylus
by pulling in the direction of the arrow without touching the
cantilever, stylus tip, and magnets.
Pull
Installing a new replacement stylus
1. Mount the new replacement stylus to the cartridge.
Align the position of the inner
protrusion.
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 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.
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.
Plastic washers
Installation screws
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. 14.
• After the adjustments are complete, tighten the screws securely.
7. Attach the headshell to the tonearm.
8. Adjust the tonearm balance and tracking force.
• Refer to “Setting tonearm balance” on p. 7 and “Setting tracking force”
on p. 8.

13
Replacing the belt
• The belt is a consumable part. Replace the belt if the speed of
playback slows down or irregular rotation occurs. As a rule of thumb,
we suggest replacing the belt once a year.
• Before replacing the belt, be sure to disconnect the product’s AC
adapter from the outlet.
1. Remove the rubber mat.
2. Remove the platter, turn the platter over, and then remove the old
belt.
• Place your thumbs in the openings and pull up strongly.
3. Place the new belt around the inner circle.
• Be careful not to twist the belt while doing this.
Belt
4. Attach the platter.
• Align one of the openings with the position of the motor pulley (brass-
colored).
Opening
Motor pulley
(brass-colored)
5. Place the belt on the motor pulley (brass-colored).
• Grasp the belt that was attached in step 3 and, while pulling it, place it on
the brass motor pulley.
Motor pulley
(brass-colored)

14
Adjusting the overhang
The position of the cartridge must be accurately determined (adjusting
the overhang) when mounting a cartridge or headshell other than the
one provided.
1. Mount the cartridge so it is parallel to the headshell.
•
Match up the positions of the cartridge and headshell to the figure
below and mount the cartridge so it is parallel to the headshell.
Overhang adjustment guide
This illustration represents the actual size.
Place the headshell on the figure below, and then adjust the stylus tip
of the new cartridge along the lines for the "Stylus tip" of the cartridge.
2. Mount the cartridge so it is perpendicular to the top of the
headshell.
When the turntable is moved
Using the product's original packing materials, wrap the turntable in
the reverse order from when you unwrapped it. If you do not have the
packaging materials, take the following measures:
• After unplugging the AC adapter from the outlet, remove the rubber
mat and platter, and then wrap them so that they do not get damaged.
If the product is moved while the platter is still seated, it may damage
the spindle.
• Fix the tonearm with the clamp.
• Remove the counterweight.
• Remove the headshell from the tonearm with the cartridge's protector
attached, and then wrap the entire headshell assembly so that it does
not get damaged.
• Wrap the turntable body with a soft cloth so that it does not get
damaged.
Underside of headshell
Stylus tip
50 mm
Front of headshell

15
Troubleshooting
Problem Solution
The platter does not spin. • Is the AC adapter connected to the outlet? Connect AC adapter to the outlet.
• Has the belt slipped from the platter? Correctly place the belt on the platter.
• Is the belt placed on the motor pulley? Check that the belt is placed on the motor pulley (brass-colored)
correctly.
• Has the belt been damaged? Replace it with a new belt.
The platter spins, but there is
no sound or the volume is not
loud enough.
• Is the cartridge's protector still in place? Remove the cartridge's protector.
• Is the tonearm in the lift position? Lower the tonearm.
• Are the function settings and input for connected equipment (amplifier, etc.) selected correctly? Check
whether the settings for the connected equipment are correct.
• Is the stylus damaged? Check the stylus and replace it, if necessary.
• Is the stylus placed correctly on the body of the cartridge? Check the cartridge and adjust it, if necessary.
• Are the setting positions for the output selector switch correct? Check that the output settings are correct,
noting the following common problems and their causes:
- If there is no sound, or if the volume is not loud enough, the product is set to the “PHONO” position
and connected to the amplifier’s AUX/LINE input.
- If the volume is too loud or is distorted, the product is set to the “LINE” position and connected to the
amplifier's PHONO input.
• Is the tracking force set too heavy? Adjust the tracking force.
The stylus skips. • Is the tracking force set too light or too heavy? Adjust the tracking force.
• Is the anti-skate set improperly? Verify anti-skate is set for same value as cartridge tracking force.
• Is the record warped? Check the record.
• Is the record scratched? Check the record.
• Is the stylus dirty? Excess buildup around the stylus tip will effect tracking.
There is howling. • Is the product picking up excessive vibrations from the floor, surfaces of the walls, or nearby speakers?
Decrease the vibrations or mount the product on a surface that is not subject to the effects of vibrations.
• Is the product mounted on an unstable surface? Check whether the surface on which the product is
mounted is suitable.
There is noise when the record
is playing.
• Is there dust on the cartridge’s stylus tip? If dust is stuck to the stylus tip, clean it with a commercially
sold brush.
The sound when the record is
playing is either too fast or too
slow.
• Are the speed settings for the product correct? Use the control knob to select the correct speed for the
type of record being played.
Playing speed slows down or
there is irregular rotation.
• Is the belt stretched out? Replace it with a new belt.
Humming is heard during
playback.
• Is the ground line connected correctly? Make sure the ground line is properly connected.
• If humming continues, disconnect the ground line. It may reduce humming.
• Is the headshell attached to the tonearm firmly? Make sure the locking ring is tight.

16
Dimensions
420
340
(Unit: mm)
126

Specifications
Turntable specifications
Type Belt-drive manual turntable
Motor DC servo with Active Speed
Stabilization
Drive method Belt drive
Speeds 33-1/3 RPM, 45 RPM
Turntable platter Aluminum Die Casting
Wow and flutter < 0.15 % WRMS (33 RPM) at 3 kHz
Signal-to-noise ratio > 60 dB
Output levels
“PHONO”
“LINE”
4.0 mV nominal at 1 kHz, 5 cm/sec
200 mV nominal at 1 kHz, 5 cm/sec
Phono Pre-amp gain 35 dB nominal, RIAA equalized
Tonearm specifications
Type Static balanced straight carbon
tonearm
Effective length 223.6 mm
Overhang 18.6 mm
Maximum tracking error angle Less than 2.0°
Stylus pressure adjustment
range
0 to 3.0 g
Applicable cartridge weight
range (including headshell)
11.5 to 16.5 g
Cartridge and headshell specifications
Cartridge Model AT-VM95E BK
Cartridge Type VM
Recommended load
impedance
47,000 ohms
Output voltage 4.0 mV (mV at 1 kHz, 5 cm/sec)
Stylus 0.3 × 0.7 mil bonded elliptical stylus
Cantilever Aluminum pipe
Tracking force range 1.8 to 2.2 g (standard 2.0 g)
Cartridge weight 6.1 g (0.22 oz)
Headshell model AT-HS4 BK
Headshell weight 8.5 g (excluding lead wires)
Headshell overhang
adjustment
± 5 mm
General specifications
Power supply requirements 100 to 240 V, 50/60 Hz, 0.5 A Max.
Power consumption 1.3 W
AC Adapter 12 V, 0.5 A
Dimensions 420 mm (16.54") × 340 mm (13.39")
× 126 mm (4.96") (W × D × H)
Weight 5.56 kg (12.25 lbs)
Accessories Dust cover, Rubber mat, Platter
(with drive belt),Dust cover hinges,
Counterweight, Headshell (AT-HS4 BK)
with VM stereo cartridge (AT-VM95E
BK), 45-RPM adapter, RCA audio
cable (Approx. 1.0 m (3.3')), AC
adapter (Approx. 1.5 m (4.9'))
Replacement stylus
(sold separately)
AT-VMN95E BK
Replacement headshell
(sold separately)
AT-HS4 BK
Replacement belt
(sold separately)
AT-LPW50PB exclusive belt
Specifications are subject to change without notice due to
improvements.
162502020-02-01 ver.1 2020.01.01
Audio-Technica Corporation
2-46-1 Nishi-naruse, Machida, Tokyo 194-8666, Japan
©2020 Audio-Technica Corporation
Global Support Contact: www.at-globalsupport.com