Synergy
Combined with the AT3600LA, the combinations come across as forgiving. While not the most detailed in sound, the black background makes for near silence when using albums without ticks and pops.
Those can even be masked a little by the combination of a high-tracking force cartridge and the AT’s ability to carry forward with a slight maturing of the sound.
Pairings
The Klipsch The Sixes were the first speakers paired with the TT13, playing continuously on repeat for 18 hours.
This pairing showcased Klipsch’s forward tweeters and midrange, balanced by the TT13’s smooth, melodic tone. The combination delivered an engaging yet slightly laidback sound, blending Klipsch’s energy with the TT13’s refined maturity.
Next, the TT13 was connected to a Yamaha A-S301 amplifier and KEF Q150 speakers in a two-channel setup. It’s crucial to attach the ground wire to the phono ground and connect the L/R cables to an AUX input; otherwise, conflicting phono stages result in distorted sound.
This pairing highlighted the AT3600LA cartridge’s midrange clarity, with just enough forwardness to let the music shine. Compared to its Bluetooth mode, the direct connection offered greater detail and vibrancy, making it a standout feature.
The KEF’s rich mids paired well with Yamaha’s analytical precision, creating a detailed, controlled presentation. Meanwhile, the Edifier R1280DBs provided a budget-friendly option with a neutral, warmer tone.
Although the Edifiers lacked some detail and energy compared to the Klipsch, they produced a balanced sound suitable for compact spaces.
Both systems achieved high volumes, easily filling medium-sized rooms. The Edifiers were ideal for smaller setups, while the Klipsch, with its expansive soundstage, required more room to excel.
Finally, a vintage setup with an Akai AM-U1 amplifier and Yamaha NS-A638 speakers demonstrated the TT13’s adaptability.
This affordable combination delivered satisfying results, with the Yamaha speakers offering excellent bass, treble, and sublime mids. The Akai provided ample power, and this setup reached impressively loud volumes.
Whether using Bluetooth or wired connections, the TT13 excels in providing enjoyable listening experiences across diverse systems and setups.
Select Comparisons
Audio-Technica AT-LP120XBT-USB
The AT-LP120 came from another review I had previously done, and sees regular playing time in my office setup, using both BT and paired to my Yamaha/KEF system. It probably sees more use than my main system turntables.
Technical
The AT-LP120XBT-USB uses Bluetooth 5.0 along with both an RCA connection and a USB connection for use across multiple options.
Paired with the venerable AT-VM95E cartridge, with an interchangeable (upgradable) stylus makes for an excellent start. The AT-HS6 universal ½”-mount headshell carries the connection system so you can upgrade the headshell in the future if you wish.
A Direct-Drive DC servo motor paired with Quartzlock ensures platter speed does not vary, but the 120 includes an adjustable +/-speed slider, just in case. Fully manual operation happens after you turn on the power knob and start/stop button.
The 120 also plays 33, 45, and 78 rpm albums with the flick of a button (press both 33 & 45 buttons simultaneously). The S-tonearm has both anti-skate and cartridge weight-adjusting abilities, unlike the TT13.
The 120 can also handle up to BT apt for playing in BT mode. The 120 has a switch on the back for running in either phono mode (internal phono stage) or line-level out for use with a two-channel system or powered speakers, which have an internal phono stage.
Unlike the FiiO, you can run the 120 in the phono inputs due to the switching between line-level and phono mode, relying upon the internal phono stage of the connected unit.
The AC adaptor carries on the AC/DC conversion outside the unit, further isolating external noise.
Design
The 120 has a plastic plinth, with robust feet to isolate external noise. The base is also damped for reduced low-frequency feedback.
It is also the size of a normal turntable, which is considerably larger than the TT13. The AT also carries the familiar stroboscopic platter used as a speed indicator.
Variable pitch control with quartz speed lock allows for the speeding up or slowing down of the musical effects.
There is also a removable target light, which can highlight whatever part you want (I keep it on the cartridge in play). This is handy for queuing the needle in low-light situations.
You can convert your vinyl records to digital audio files by downloading and using the free Mac- and PC-compatible Audacity recording software (or software of your choice), then using the USB connection to your computer.
Performance
The AT-VM95E cartridge is a better cartridge than the 3600LA, there is no getting around that. However, it would be foolhardy to discount the TT13 based on that.
Where the 120 carries detail retrieval much better, the TT13 carries warmth and an inviting sound quality.
Clarity across the board is very good for a mostly plastic turntable, showing AT’s heritage. While it does perform at a higher level than the TT13, the appeal of the FiiO is its all-in-one playability.
Convenience isn’t even close between the two, the TT13 is automatic everything. Where the 120 bests the FiiO though, is its ability to reproduce music more accurately in levels of detail that shine. Of course, an upgrade to the stylus on the TT13 would close that gap.
Audio-Technica AT-LP60XBT
The AT-LP60XBT could be considered the mini-me of the LP120, except with belt-drive technology and BT. It is an economical turntable for those just getting started, and one of the most popular turntables in the United States, sales-wise. Our daughter has one and loves it.
Technical
Running Qualcomm’s 5.0 BT, the 60 connects easily to powered speakers. Compatible with aptX codec as well, carries over from the 120.
The 60 also has a fully automatic operation, but only 33 rpm & 45 rpm for its belt drive system (like the TT13). You can still connect via BT or RCA to powered speakers or a two-channel system.
The die-cast aluminum platter spins a redesigned straight tonearm, which carries the ATN3600LC cartridge, another iteration of the TT13’s cartridge. With a replaceable stylus, both share the ability to upgrade.
The AC switching from AC to DC is also handled outside the unit, for noise isolation. The 60 shares the built-in switchable phono pre-amplifier for phono- or line-level output, too.
Design
There is no getting around the plastic build of the 60s. It is light and shows its price point here.
That said, functionality-wise, it competes with the speed button on the front left accessible with the dust cover down, as well as the start & stop buttons and tonearm up/down button. Having these accessible while the dust cover is down pays off.
The only control on the inside is the BT pairing button, which makes sense since you would do that before playing.
Unlike the 120, there is no adjusting the anti-skate or cartridge balancing force, just like the TT13. It is a plug-and-play model. Even though plastic rules the design, the 60 is functional, and well-built to take any abuse, that may be thrown its way.
Performance
Having an iteration of the same AT cartridge denotes the entry level of both turntables. But again, there is a reason both models carry this highly successful cartridge. It works. And works well.
The 60 carries a sound signature that is very similar to the TT13, with a degree less of midrange push and quality.
The use of plastic versus aluminum for the plinth comes into play here, but under most normal uses, one may not notice. Where both can handle abuse, the 60 is built more for that type of use, than pure audio quality.
The FiiO on the other hand carries better technical ability while engaging a potential new vinyl person to the fray. Both perform their duties well here, but the TT13 carries a slightly more refined signature and overall appeal.
Denon DP1200
The DP1200 came my way via a friend in Calgary, who was looking to make room in his turntable herd for a Thorens.
The unit was in exceptional shape, with a fresh tune-up via a local shop. I played the included Grado cartridge but settled on two AT cartridges: the venerable AT-VM540ML, a mid-priced well regarded MM cartridge, and the Denon DL-301 MC cartridge (not the DL103).
Technical
Denon turntables are known for their direct drive AC servo motor drive systems. Similar to AT’s quartz lock, the speed is electronically kept near-perfect in this manner.
A thick, MDF plinth keeps noise at a minimum, while the S-tonearm carries anti-skate and cartridge force adjustments.
A novel addition for Denon turntables is adjustment screws, which allow you to raise or lower the tonearm when needed, such as when a larger (or higher) cartridge is in use.
One screw allows for raising and lowering the back of the tonearm, while the other is used to raise or lower the arm mechanism and the tonearm cradle. I have no trouble getting the tonearm dead level as a result and with the proper movement of the tonearm actuation mechanism.
The DP1200 is a semi-automatic turntable, with a lifting of the tonearm at the end of the album, so it doesn’t continuously play in the dead grooves. While I wish for a fully automatic model, the DP1200 works and works very well.
Design
Dark reddish wood is seemingly a Denon trademark in their models, and the DP1200 is no different. On the larger size, similar to the LP1200 above, but built to last.
The S-tonearm comes in stock, or you could have ordered a straight tonearm back when this was new (early 1980’s).
The design is functionally clean, with a single play/off toggle next to the tonearm on the base, for turning the turntable on and off.
Around the “flying saucer” there are buttons for start/stand by (so the turntable can be set to sleep mode), speed (33 or 45 rpm), and a rotating speed adjustment knob.
Elegantly simple, but robust, the Denon retains the company tradition of looking great in a plain manner and functioning darn near perfectly.
Performance
This really isn’t a fair comparison but done so since on the used market a model such as this could be had in a “similar” price range.
Running the VM540ML the most, I appreciate the utterly ridiculous levels of detail present. Musically, the combination seemingly hits the right spots for clarity, an openness to the sound without losing weight to the notes, and a signature that fully brings out the music.
Where the TT13 comes across with a certain amount of warmth to the signature, the DP1200 comes across with accuracy that the TT13 cannot match. And it isn’t meant to, either.
Where the DP1200 represents what a mid-table should sound like with excellent detail retrieval, transient response, and a musical nature to it, the TT13 carries forth with an all-around usability as its best trick.
The DP1200 is meant for a two-channel system. The TT13 can be used in a similar fashion or with powered speakers, making it more versatile. Add in the fully automatic usage that evens the field a bit.
Call the TT13 the gateway into music, where something such as the DP1200 can be your end product.
My Verdict
The FiiO TT13 is a fantastic entry-level turntable, with excellent build qualities, and construction that should keep the unit functioning for a long time. It can compete with similar-level brands right out of the box.
This is a fully automatic, ready-to-run BT turntable, with the ability to be used in a more traditional HiFi manner. It does so without having to switch a button like on the LP1200 but just make sure you hook it into an AUX input after hooking up the ground and turn off BT.
You also get the accessories needed from an RCA connection cable to a remote and 45 rpm spindle disc.
Despite the TT13 being pitched as a fully functioning entry-level turntable, the sound is good enough to warrant use in good two-channel systems, especially knowing you can eventually upgrade the stylus for a modest amount.
FiiO TT13 Technical Specifications
- Color: Black/White/Silver
- Hardware: Opamp JRC5532*2
- Bluetooth DAC: QCC3040, Bluetooth 5.2: SBC/aptX/aptX LL/aptX HD
- Dimensions: 450x350x114mm
- Weight: 3850g
- Wow & Flutter: ≤0.15% WRMS (33 1/3RPM), 3kHz
- Cartridge: Audio-Technica AT3600L
- Mechanisms: Fully automatic
- Record size: 7” & 12”
- Speed: 33rpm & 45rpm
- Remote: Supports infrared remote control (only the one included in the package, 2-AAA batteries)
- LO: Standard RCA port (white and red), ground (black RCA)
- Output balance adjustment knob*1
- DC power in: 6.2mm DC port
- Power supply: AC 100-240V~50/60Hz or DC 12V/≥1A, *Note: Please turn off the AC power switch when using the DC power supply.
- Output amplitude: L+R≥800mV+800mV (1kHz/0dB record)
- THD+N: ≤3.5%
- SNR: ≥75dB (A-weighted)
- Noise floor: ＜150uV (A-weighted)
