OVERVIEW
The T.120 is Stanton's new top of the line turntable. Like its predecessor the ST-150, this turntable features Stanton's ultra high torque direct drive motor (which they claim to be the world's strongest at +4.5Kgf-cm) and an all aluminum, Technics 1200-type construction. This is the straight tone-arm edition, which is preferable for those whose primary focus is scratching (for overall djing and listening, we recommend the curved arm model).

FEATURES
In terms of general DJ feel and scratching, there isn't much comparison between the T.120 and Stanton's lower T.60 & T.80 models. The T.120 is more in the neighborhood of a Technics 1200 or a Numark TTX-1. The motor is extremely strong on this turntable, the overall weight of the unit has been increased, and the platter is as stable as anything else out there- all of which means you can DJ and scratch with full confidence. In an extremely convenient move, the start and brake times are adjustable through two knobs right next to the start/stop button. When these are turned to their sharpest points, the T.120 starts and stops on an absolute dime. The pitch control has a selectable range of +/-8%, 25% or 50% with quartz lock (which improves accuracy), and two (+ and -) pitch bend buttons which temporarily alter the pitch about 6% when pressed.

The T.120 follows the basic template of Stanton's current turntable design while improving the details and quality. Most noticeable is the tonearm area. The all-aluminum construction is a plus, but they've also designed this one to be height adjustable with a base ring, the counter weight is far more accurate, there is a tone arm lift lever, and there is anti-skate adjustment. It has two stop/start buttons so that you can position your turntables regular (horizontal) or battle (vertical) style. The RCA cables and power cord are detachable, which is great since those connections are usually the first things to go in a turntables' life. The T.120 also comes with a cloth dustcover, a minor innovation which I think will please a lot of people.

OUR OPINION
This is Stanton's most professional and trustworthy turntable yet. It is well thought out and generously constructed, as any top of the line piece should be. Overall, this is a solid, reliable turntable that is a viable option to anything within its price range.

- world's strongest direct drive motor (4.5Kgf-cm torque)
- height adjustable, straight tone arm
- +/-8%, +/-25% or +/-50% pitch control with quartz lock
- start & brake speed adjustment
- dual start/stop buttons
- target light
- plays at 33/45/78 rpm
- plays in reverse
- phono or line output

- Stanton headshell
- cloth dust cover
- slipmat

• manufacturer's website