Overview
- Sony’s PS‑LX3BT is available to pre‑order now at $399.99 with a February release, while the PS‑LX5BT is priced at $499.99 and is planned for pre‑sale in spring, with April cited in some reports.
- Both belt‑drive decks offer one‑button full‑auto playback, support 96 kHz/24‑bit Bluetooth audio via aptX/aptX Adaptive/Hi‑Res Wireless Audio, and include wired outputs via switchable phono/line.
- A USB‑B output with three‑level gain enables straightforward digitization of records to a computer.
- Key differences include a 3.5 g stylus pressure moving‑magnet cartridge and fixed RCA cable on the PS‑LX3BT versus a 2 g high‑precision cartridge, detachable RCA cables, gold‑plated jacks, and enhanced vibration‑reduction components on the PS‑LX5BT; both use aluminum platters with rubber mats.
- The launch arrives as Sony and TCL explore a joint venture for TVs and home audio, a developing move that could influence future product stewardship.