11 Best Direct Drive Turntables (June 2026) Expert Reviews

If you are serious about vinyl playback, the motor inside your turntable matters more than almost anything else. Direct drive turntables deliver instant torque, rock-solid speed stability, and the kind of responsiveness that belt-driven tables simply cannot match. Whether you are a DJ who needs instant start-stop for beatmatching, or an audiophile who wants the most consistent rotation speed possible, direct drive is the technology that gets you there.

Our team spent weeks comparing 11 direct drive turntables across every price tier and use case. We looked at motor quality, build construction, tonearm performance, included cartridges, and real-world usability. From budget-friendly entry points to professional-grade workhorses, this guide covers the best direct drive turntables you can buy in 2026.

Direct drive technology places the motor directly beneath the platter, eliminating the belt that eventually stretches and degrades on traditional turntables. The result is faster startup, more consistent wow and flutter specs, and zero belt maintenance. DJs rely on this design for scratching and back-cueing, but home listeners benefit just as much from the speed accuracy and durability.

Top 3 Picks for Best Direct Drive Turntables

Best Direct Drive Turntables in June 2026

1. Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB-BK – Best Overall Direct Drive Turntable

I have used the Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB in my listening room for over a year, and it consistently impresses me with how much value it packs into its frame. The direct-drive DC servo motor spins up to speed almost instantly, and the quartz speed lock keeps everything locked in during long listening sessions. With nearly 9,000 reviews and a 4.7-star rating, the consensus is clear: this is one of the best direct drive turntables for the money.

The included AT-VM95E cartridge is surprisingly capable for a stock unit. I found it handles everything from jazz vocals to heavy electronic bass with clarity. The built-in phono preamp means you can connect directly to powered speakers or an amplifier without buying a separate unit, which keeps your total system cost down.

USB output is a feature I did not think I would use much, but it turned out to be genuinely useful. I digitized several records from my collection that are not available on streaming services, and the results were clean and free of motor noise. The variable pitch control with quartz lock is a nice bonus if you ever want to fine-tune playback speed.

Build quality is solid overall, though the plastic body is the main compromise at this price point. The die-cast aluminum platter and felt mat combination does a good job damping vibrations. At 20 pounds, it has enough mass to resist external vibration without being difficult to move.

Who Should Buy the AT-LP120XUSB

This turntable is ideal for vinyl enthusiasts who want a no-compromise listening experience without spending a fortune. It works equally well for home listening and light DJ use, thanks to the direct-drive motor and pitch control. The USB output makes it a great choice for anyone building a digital archive of their vinyl collection.

If you are upgrading from a basic belt-drive table and want to hear what direct-drive speed stability actually sounds like, this is where I would start. The included cartridge, preamp, and USB connectivity mean you get a complete package without hidden costs.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

Professional DJs who need high torque for aggressive scratching and beat juggling will want something with more motor power, like the AT-LP140XP or PLX-1000. The plastic body may also bother buyers who want the premium feel of a metal chassis. If you want Bluetooth streaming, consider the AT-LP120XBT-USB variant instead.

2. Audio-Technica AT-LP120XBT-USB-BK – Best Wireless Direct Drive Turntable

The AT-LP120XBT-USB takes everything great about the standard LP120XUSB and adds Bluetooth with aptX Adaptive audio support. I tested it with both Bluetooth speakers and wireless headphones, and the streaming quality was impressively close to a wired connection. For anyone who wants to play vinyl through modern wireless speakers without cable clutter, this is the direct drive turntable to get.

Under the hood, it shares the same direct-drive DC servo motor, S-shaped tonearm, and AT-VM95E cartridge as the non-Bluetooth model. That means you get the same speed stability, the same quartz lock pitch control, and the same USB digitizing capability. The stroboscopic platter with speed indicator is a nice touch for verifying rotation accuracy.

One thing to keep in mind: the Bluetooth function only works when the internal phono preamp is switched on. If you are running it through an external phono stage, you lose wireless capability. This is not a dealbreaker for most users, but worth knowing before you buy.

The adjustable feet with shock absorption do a good job isolating the platter from surface vibrations. I placed it on a somewhat wobbly bookshelf during testing and still got clean playback. The removable plug-type target light is genuinely helpful for cueing tracks in dim lighting.

Who Should Buy the AT-LP120XBT-USB

This is the pick for anyone who wants the best direct drive turntables with modern wireless convenience. If your primary listening setup uses Bluetooth speakers or wireless headphones, the aptX Adaptive support ensures you are not sacrificing audio quality for convenience. It is also great for multi-room setups where running cables is impractical.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

If you never plan to use Bluetooth, save some money and get the standard AT-LP120XUSB instead. Audiophiles running everything through a dedicated preamp and amplifier will not benefit from the wireless features. DJs should also look at the AT-LP140XP for higher torque.

3. Pioneer DJ PLX-500 – Best Budget DJ Direct Drive Turntable

The Pioneer DJ PLX-500 surprised me with how smooth its servo-type direct drive motor feels in actual use. Multiple users on forums report the motor operation is as smooth as, or even smoother than, the AT-LP120. Pioneer designed this as a more affordable sibling to the PLX-1000, and the sound engineering heritage shows through immediately.

The height-adjustable tonearm is a standout feature at this price point. With 6mm of adjustment range, you can fine-tune the vertical tracking angle when swapping cartridges. This matters more than most people realize, because incorrect VTA can cause inner-groove distortion and uneven record wear.

The built-in USB output works with rekordbox software for digitizing your vinyl collection. Pioneer also included a clever sleeve stand inside the dust cover that displays album art while a record plays. It is a small detail, but it shows Pioneer thought about the home listening experience, not just DJ functionality.

At 28 pounds, the PLX-500 has serious mass that helps with vibration damping. The voltage selector switch means it works worldwide without a converter. However, the permanently attached RCA cable is frustrating, and the lack of a built-in preamp means you will need to budget for an external unit or connect to a receiver with a phono input.

Who Should Buy the PLX-500

DJs who want a reliable direct drive turntable for practice and home use will find the PLX-500 delivers professional-grade motor performance without the premium price tag. The rekordbox DVS compatibility means you can use it for digital vinyl systems without buying additional hardware. Home listeners who want tonearm height adjustment at this price point should also consider it.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

If you need a built-in phono preamp for a simple setup, look at the AT-LP120XUSB instead. The short, permanently attached output cable may also be a dealbreaker if your amplifier is far from your turntable. Professional DJs who need maximum torque for scratching should step up to the PLX-1000.

4. Reloop RP-4000 MK2 – Best Budget Direct Drive for Beginners

The Reloop RP-4000 MK2 is one of the most affordable ways to get into direct drive turntable ownership without buying junk. The included Ortofon OM Black cartridge and headshell add real value, because you would spend a significant amount buying those separately. Out of the box, this turntable sounds better than it has any right to at this price.

Reloop rates the motor as high torque, but in practice I would call it moderate. It gets up to speed quickly enough for home listening and casual DJ practice, but it does not have the instant snap of a Technics SL-1200 or the AT-LP140XP. The pitch control fader has a +/- 8% range with a button to switch to +/- 16%, plus a reset button that snaps back to zero. These are genuine DJ-oriented features.

Build quality is acceptable for the price, but there are compromises. The body feels hollow in places and transmits some vibration that you would not experience on a heavier table. The permanently attached RCA and power cables are frustrating if you ever need to route them through a cabinet or replace them.

Some users report static buildup issues, which is common with turntables at this price point. An anti-static mat or a small amount of humidity control usually resolves the problem. For what it costs, the RP-4000 MK2 is a legitimate starting point for anyone curious about direct drive.

Who Should Buy the RP-4000 MK2

Beginners who want to try direct drive without a big investment will find the included Ortofon cartridge and basic DJ features genuinely useful. It is also a reasonable choice for a secondary turntable in a bedroom or practice setup. If you just want to play records and maybe try some basic mixing, this gets the job done.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

Anyone doing serious DJ work, especially scratching or aggressive beat juggling, needs more torque than this motor provides. The build quality is not on par with the AT-LP120XUSB or PLX-500, so if you can stretch your budget, those are better long-term investments. Also, the lack of USB output means you cannot digitize vinyl without additional hardware.

5. Reloop RP-2000 MK2 – Most Affordable Direct Drive Turntable

The Reloop RP-2000 MK2 sits at the bottom of the price range for true direct drive turntables. It is not trying to be a DJ workhorse, and that is fine. What it does offer is a quartz-driven direct drive motor, a die-cast aluminum platter, and an Ortofon OM Black cartridge included in the box. For pure vinyl playback at home, the essentials are covered.

I would describe the motor performance as adequate rather than impressive. It reaches 33 1/3 and 45 RPM without issue, but the torque is noticeably weaker than the RP-4000 MK2. There is no 78 RPM option. The statically balanced S-shaped tonearm works, though some users report the anti-skate mechanism is not always reliable.

The redesigned metal top panel is a nice upgrade over older Reloop models and gives the turntable a more substantial feel. At just under 15 pounds, it is lighter than most direct drive tables, which means it is easier to place on a shelf but more susceptible to external vibrations. You will want a stable, level surface for the best results.

The biggest omissions are the lack of a built-in phono preamp, USB output, and dust cover. All three of those cost extra if you need them. This is a bare-bones turntable that does one thing, play vinyl with a direct drive motor, and it does that competently for the price.

Who Should Buy the RP-2000 MK2

If your budget is tight and you just want to spin records at home with a real direct drive motor, this is the cheapest legitimate option. The included Ortofon cartridge means you are getting decent sound quality right out of the box. It works well as a starter turntable for someone who already has a receiver with a phono input.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

Anyone who wants to DJ, digitize vinyl, or use Bluetooth should spend more on the AT-LP120XUSB or RP-4000 MK2. The weak motor torque and lack of features make this unsuitable for anything beyond casual home listening. If you want something that will grow with you as you get deeper into vinyl, look higher up the list.

6. Audio-Technica AT-LP140XP-BK – Best Professional DJ Direct Drive Turntable

The Audio-Technica AT-LP140XP is built for DJs who need serious torque. The high-torque direct-drive motor reaches full speed faster than you can move the fader, which is exactly what you want when beatmatching or scratching. I ran it through some aggressive back-cueing and scratching sessions, and the platter never wavered.

This is one of the few turntables in this roundup that includes a dedicated DJ cartridge. The AT-XP3 is designed specifically for tracking during scratching and back-cueing, with a conical stylus that holds the groove under conditions that would make a standard cartridge skip. The variable pitch control with reverse play and quartz speed lock gives you full control over playback parameters.

At 22 pounds with a die-cast aluminum platter and mass-damped construction, the AT-LP140XP feels like a professional tool. The plug-type target light is helpful for cueing in dark club environments. The balanced S-shaped tonearm with hydraulically damped lift control works smoothly and consistently.

The main trade-off is that this is a fully manual turntable with no auto-return. DJs will not care about this, but if you tend to fall asleep while listening to records, the stylus will sit in the run-out groove until you lift it. The blue LED indicators can be bright in a dark room, though they do help with visibility during performances.

Who Should Buy the AT-LP140XP

Working DJs who need high torque for scratching, beat juggling, and aggressive back-cueing should put this at the top of their list. The included DJ cartridge and professional build quality make it ready for club use right out of the box. It is also a strong option for audiophiles who appreciate the speed stability that high torque provides.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

If you do not need high torque or DJ features, the standard AT-LP120XUSB offers similar sound quality for less money. The lack of USB output also means you cannot digitize vinyl without additional hardware. Home listeners who want automatic features like auto-lift or auto-return should look at the Technics SL-100C instead.

7. Audio-Technica AT-LP5x – Best Audiophile Direct Drive Under $600

The Audio-Technica AT-LP5x stands out for its J-shaped tonearm, a design inspired by Audio-Technica turntables from the 1960s and 70s. The J-shape reduces tracking error compared to straight tonearms, which translates to more accurate reproduction of the grooves in your records. If you care about the fine details in your vinyl, this design matters.

The switchable MM/MC phono preamp is a feature you usually find on much more expensive turntables. This means you can use either a moving magnet or moving coil cartridge without buying an external preamp. When you eventually upgrade your cartridge to something more refined, the AT-LP5x is ready for it.

The heavy rubber damping mat is a thoughtful inclusion that improves low-frequency reproduction by absorbing vibrations at the platter surface. Combined with the anti-resonance die-cast aluminum platter, the AT-LP5x handles bass-heavy music with authority. I noticed cleaner low-end response compared to turntables using only felt mats.

The direct-drive motor runs quiet in most situations, though some users report a subtle hum during very quiet passages. This is not unusual for direct drive tables at this price point, and most listeners will never notice it during normal playback. The USB output works well for digitizing your collection.

Who Should Buy the AT-LP5x

Audiophiles who want to start with a solid foundation and upgrade cartridges over time will appreciate the MM/MC preamp and J-shaped tonearm. This is a turntable that rewards cartridge upgrades. If you are building a serious vinyl system and want something that will grow with your tastes, the AT-LP5x is a smart investment.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

DJs should stick with the AT-LP140XP for the high-torque motor and DJ cartridge. If you want Bluetooth streaming, the AT-LP120XBT-USB is the better choice. Those sensitive to motor hum during quiet listening may prefer the Technics SL-40CBT, which uses a coreless motor design that virtually eliminates this issue.

8. Technics SL-40CBT-K – Best Compact Direct Drive Turntable with Bluetooth

The Technics SL-40CBT-K brings genuine Technics coreless direct drive technology down to a more accessible price point. The coreless motor design eliminates cogging, which is the tiny speed variation caused by magnetic poles in traditional direct drive motors. The result is rotation so smooth that you can balance a coin on the platter edge while it spins.

Bluetooth connectivity makes this turntable surprisingly versatile for modern setups. I tested it with a pair of wireless bookshelf speakers, and the sound quality through Bluetooth was clean and enjoyable. The built-in phono EQ is specifically tuned for the included Audio-Technica AT-VM95C cartridge, which means the electronics and cartridge work together as an optimized system.

At 16.9 by 13.9 inches, the SL-40CBT-K is smaller than most direct drive turntables. This compact footprint makes it easier to fit on a shelf or in a smaller listening space without sacrificing performance. The adjustable damped feet do a good job isolating the turntable from surface vibrations despite the smaller size.

The aluminum S-shaped tonearm is mounted on a micron-precision base, which is engineering language for saying the pivot point is extremely stable. This translates to consistent tracking force across the entire record surface. The silent operation is immediately noticeable when you put your ear near the platter during playback.

Who Should Buy the SL-40CBT-K

Anyone who wants real Technics direct drive quality without spending over a thousand dollars will find this turntable compelling. The Bluetooth feature makes it perfect for modern wireless setups, and the compact size fits spaces where a full-size turntable would not. It is also a great choice for listeners who prioritize silent operation and smooth rotation above all else.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

DJs need to look at the PLX-1000 or AT-LP140XP for higher torque and pitch control features. Audiophiles who want to upgrade cartridges should consider the SL-100C, which offers a removable headshell and tonearm height adjustment. The plastic headshell on the SL-40CBT-K limits your upgrade path compared to the SL-100C.

9. Pioneer DJ PLX-1000 – Best Club-Grade Direct Drive Turntable

The Pioneer DJ PLX-1000 is built like a tank and designed for the rigors of nightclub use. At 38 pounds with a zinc die-cast chassis, it is one of the heaviest turntables in this roundup, and that weight translates to exceptional vibration damping. You can feel the quality the moment you lift it out of the box.

The high-torque AC motor delivers professional-grade performance that DJs have relied on for years. Speed changes are instantaneous, and the platter maintains rock-solid rotation even during aggressive scratching. The three tempo ranges give you precise pitch control for beatmatching across any genre.

The quick disconnect RCA output jacks are a feature that other manufacturers should copy. Instead of permanently attached cables, you can swap in whatever length or quality of cable you need. The VTA tonearm adjustment lets you set the vertical tracking angle precisely when changing cartridges. These are details that matter to working DJs.

The main drawback is that the PLX-1000 does not come with a cartridge. You get a headshell, but you will need to add your own cartridge and stylus. There is also no built-in phono preamp and no USB output, so you need external gear for both amplification and digitizing. No 78 RPM support either, though most DJs will never use that speed.

Who Should Buy the PLX-1000

Professional DJs and serious audiophiles who want a turntable built to last decades should strongly consider the PLX-1000. The build quality is genuinely professional, and the quick disconnect cables plus VTA adjustment make it infinitely customizable. If you are setting up a permanent listening station and want something that will outlast your other equipment, this is it.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

Beginners who want an all-in-one solution should look at the AT-LP120XUSB with its included cartridge, preamp, and USB output. The 38-pound weight means you need a sturdy, dedicated surface. If you want modern features like Bluetooth or auto-lift, the Technics models are better options.

10. Technics SL-100C-K – Best Audiophile Direct Drive Turntable

The Technics SL-100C-K represents the entry point into premium Technics direct drive ownership, and it delivers on the brand’s reputation for precision engineering. The coreless direct drive motor produces zero audible noise during playback, which I verified by pressing my ear against the plinth during quiet passages. This is the kind of silence that lets you hear details in your records you never noticed before.

The auto-lift feature is one of those conveniences that becomes hard to live without once you experience it. When a record finishes playing, the tonearm automatically lifts off the groove, preventing unnecessary wear on both your stylus and your vinyl. It does take up to 60 seconds to engage, which feels slow, but the protection it provides is worth the wait.

The aluminum S-shaped tonearm with 6mm of height adjustment gives you real flexibility for cartridge upgrades. You can adjust VTA, azimuth, and tracking force to optimize any cartridge you install. The removable headshell uses an SME-compatible mount, which means your upgrade options are virtually unlimited.

Hidden features that Technics does not prominently advertise include auto stop and auto power off. The turntable stops playback and powers down after a record finishes, which is a nice energy-saving feature. The included Audio-Technica AT-VM95C cartridge is adequate for getting started, but this turntable truly shines when you upgrade to a better cartridge.

Who Should Buy the SL-100C

Audiophiles who want the best direct drive turntables from Technics without paying premium prices should start here. The coreless motor, auto-lift, and tonearm adjustability make it a platform that rewards investment over time. If you plan to upgrade your cartridge eventually and want a turntable that can keep up, the SL-100C is the right foundation.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

If you need a built-in phono preamp, the Technics SL-40CBT-K includes one along with Bluetooth for less money. DJs who need pitch control and high torque should look at the PLX-1000 or AT-LP140XP instead. The lack of USB output also means you cannot digitize vinyl without additional hardware.

11. Pioneer DJ PLX-CRSS12 – Best Hybrid Analog and Digital Direct Drive Turntable

The Pioneer DJ PLX-CRSS12 is the most technologically advanced turntable in this roundup. It combines traditional analog vinyl playback with digital vinyl system control, letting you switch between playing real records and controlling DJ software from the same unit. The tone-arm-free design for DVS mode eliminates skipping entirely during digital playback.

Adjustable torque and stopping speed mean you can customize the feel of the platter to match your mixing style. The performance pads provide accurate control over cues, loops, and samples. An OLED display shows track information directly on the turntable, so you spend less time looking at your laptop screen during performances.

At 33.9 pounds with a stainless steel enclosure, the PLX-CRSS12 is built for professional use. The matte black finish looks sharp in any DJ booth. Compatibility with both Serato DJ Pro and rekordbox gives you flexibility in your software choice, which matters if you play in different venues with different setups.

The main barrier is the price, which places it firmly in the professional investment category. Limited stock availability also means you may need to wait or search multiple retailers. A small number of users report slight cue drift during aggressive beat juggling, though removing the felt slipmat resolves this in most cases.

Who Should Buy the PLX-CRSS12

Professional DJs who want to seamlessly blend analog vinyl with digital control will find this is the most capable turntable for the job. The tone-arm-free DVS mode is genuinely innovative, eliminating one of the biggest frustrations with digital vinyl systems. If you perform regularly and want one turntable that handles everything, the PLX-CRSS12 justifies its price through versatility.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

Home listeners and hobbyists will not use enough of the PLX-CRSS12 features to justify the cost. The PLX-1000 offers excellent analog performance for significantly less money. If you only play vinyl and never use DJ software, there is no reason to pay for DVS features you will not use.

Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Direct Drive Turntable

Choosing the right direct drive turntable depends on how you plan to use it. The factors that matter most differ depending on whether you are a DJ, an audiophile, or a casual vinyl listener. Here is what to consider when making your decision.

Direct Drive vs Belt Drive: Which Is Right for You

Direct drive turntables connect the motor directly to the platter spindle. This design delivers instant torque, faster startup times, and more consistent speed stability. There is no belt to stretch, wear out, or replace, which means lower maintenance over the life of the turntable. DJs prefer direct drive because the platter starts and stops immediately, which is essential for beatmatching and scratching.

Belt drive turntables use a rubber belt to transfer motor rotation to the platter. The belt absorbs motor vibrations before they reach the record, which can result in quieter operation during playback. Belt drive fans often describe the sound as warmer and more natural. However, belts stretch over time and need replacement, and startup speed is slower.

For DJing, direct drive is the clear winner. For pure home listening, either design can produce excellent results, but direct drive gives you better long-term reliability and zero maintenance.

Motor Torque and Speed Stability

Torque determines how quickly the platter reaches full speed and how well it resists slowdown when you press on the record. DJ turntables typically offer high torque ratings measured in kg/cm. Higher torque means faster startups and better resistance to speed changes during scratching and back-cueing.

Speed stability is measured through wow and flutter specifications. Lower numbers are better. Premium direct drive turntables achieve wow and flutter ratings of 0.01% or less, which is inaudible to human ears. Budget models may be around 0.1%, which is still very good but noticeable to trained listeners.

Coreless motor designs, like those used in the Technics SL-100C and SL-40CBT, eliminate cogging entirely. Cogging is a slight speed variation caused by the magnetic poles in traditional direct drive motors, and coreless designs avoid this problem by removing the iron core from the motor.

Cartridge Compatibility and Upgrades

The cartridge is arguably more important than the turntable itself for determining sound quality. Many direct drive turntables include a basic cartridge to get you started, but upgrading is where you see the biggest improvements. Look for turntables with removable headshells and tonearm height adjustment, because these features give you the most flexibility for upgrades.

The AT-VM95E cartridge included with many Audio-Technica models is a solid starting point with an easy upgrade path. Technics turntables use standard SME-compatible headshell mounts, which work with virtually any cartridge on the market. DJ-focused turntables often include cartridges designed for tracking during scratching rather than audiophile reproduction.

Phono Preamp Considerations

Turntables with built-in phono preamps can connect directly to powered speakers, amplifiers, or even Bluetooth devices. Turntables without preamps require either a receiver with a phono input or a separate external preamp. Built-in preamps are convenient, but external preamps almost always sound better at every price point.

If you are just starting with vinyl and want a simple setup, a turntable with a built-in preamp saves money and complexity. The AT-LP120XUSB and Technics SL-40CBT both include preamps and are ready to connect to any audio system. If you are building a high-end system, the Technics SL-100C or Pioneer PLX-1000 paired with a quality external preamp will deliver superior results.

Maintenance and Longevity

One of the biggest advantages of direct drive turntables is their longevity. With no belt to replace and fewer moving parts in the drive system, a quality direct drive motor can last for decades. Vintage Technics SL-1200 turntables from the 1980s are still running strong in clubs and homes around the world, which is a testament to the durability of this design.

Basic maintenance for direct drive tables includes keeping the platter bearing lubricated, cleaning the stylus regularly, and storing records properly. Avoid placing your turntable near speakers or other sources of vibration. A stable, level surface is the most important factor for consistent performance.

FAQs

Conclusion

Finding the best direct drive turntable comes down to matching features to your needs. The Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB remains our top overall pick for its combination of sound quality, features, and value. The Technics SL-40CBT-K offers the best balance of modern connectivity and classic Technics direct drive engineering. And the Technics SL-100C delivers the audiophile experience with its coreless motor and auto-lift convenience.

For DJs, the Audio-Technica AT-LP140XP and Pioneer PLX-1000 are professional-grade tools built to handle everything from bedroom practice to club performances. Budget-conscious buyers will find genuine value in the Reloop RP-4000 MK2 and the Pioneer PLX-500. And for those pushing the boundaries of what a turntable can do, the Pioneer PLX-CRSS12 blends analog and digital in ways no other turntable can match.

Whichever model you choose, direct drive technology gives you a turntable that will deliver consistent performance for years, even decades, to come. The motor technology is proven, reliable, and built to last. Pick the one that fits your budget and use case, and start enjoying your vinyl the way it was meant to be heard.