Sony's new turntables have Bluetooth and USB, but you can't change the cartridge.

Sony has announced its first new turntables since 2019 aimed at making vinyl more accessible. The entry-level PS-LX3BT and the step-up PS-LX5BT both blend traditional vinyl playback with modern features like hi-res Bluetooth audio. This move comes as the future of the company's hardware division is under discussion, following news of Sony's joint venture with TCL.

Modern features for vinyl fans

Both new Sony turntables are built for convenience. They include one-button automatic playback, which handles raising and lowering the tonearm for you. This makes them a solid starting point for people new to vinyl or those who just want a simple setup.

The main draw is the inclusion of 96kHz/24-bit aptX Adaptive hi-res Bluetooth. This lets you stream your records directly to wireless speakers or some of the best headphones without needing a separate amplifier. For archiving, a USB output lets you convert your vinyl collection into digital files, with a gain selector to manage recording levels.

PS-LX3BT vs PS-LX5BT: Is the upgrade worth $100?

The core functions are the same across both models, but the $499.99 PS-LX5BT has a few key upgrades over the $399.99 PS-LX3BT. The more expensive model features a high-precision moving magnet cartridge with a lighter 2g stylus pressure, compared to the standard 3.5g on the entry model. This should, in theory, result in less wear on your records over time.

Other improvements include a lighter black aluminum platter with a rubber slip mat for better stability, detachable RCA cables for custom setups, and higher-quality internal components to reduce noise. For casual listeners, the PS-LX3BT is likely sufficient, but the PS-LX5BT offers tangible upgrades for those looking for better audio fidelity from Sony's other audio equipment.

The catch: You are stuck with Sony's cartridge

There is one significant limitation for both turntables. According to Sony, the cartridges cannot be swapped out for aftermarket models from brands like Ortofon. If the stylus needs replacing, you have to go through Sony's customer support.

This decision locks users into Sony's ecosystem and removes a common upgrade path for vinyl enthusiasts. While it simplifies things for beginners, it's a frustrating omission for anyone who might want to improve their sound down the line without buying a whole new turntable.

Sony turntables price and availability

Sony has only announced global pricing and release windows. UAE pricing and availability have not yet been confirmed.

• Sony PS-LX3BT: Priced at $399.99. Available for preorder now with a global release in February 2026.
• Sony PS-LX5BT: Priced at $499.99. Available globally in April 2026.

We will update this article when local UAE prices and retailers are announced.

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