How to Clean an Audio-Technica AT-LP60X Turntable

Step-by-step instructions

Step 1: Stop playback before touching anything

Lower the connected speaker or amplifier volume and press STOP. Wait for the tonearm to return and the platter to stop before removing the record. Disconnect the AC adapter. Do not grab a moving tonearm to make the process faster. Keep the stylus protected while cleaning the surrounding body, and take care when removing its protector: the manual specifies a straight-forward motion. Arrange cloths and brushes away from the arm so reaching for supplies does not accidentally catch the stylus.

Step 2: Separate the record-contact area from the body

Remove the felt mat carefully and place it on a clean surface. Wipe away loose dust from the mat as directed in the AT-LP60X manual. Do not put it down on a gritty worktop and then return that grit to the platter. A visibly dirty mat should be dealt with before another record is played. Routine dust removal does not require lifting the aluminum platter, exposing the belt or dismantling the automatic mechanism.

Step 3: Wipe the turntable body dry

Use a soft, dry cloth on the body, working around controls and the arm rest with light pressure. Keep liquid cleaner away from the spindle, switches and rear connections. Do not apply furniture polish or solvent to make the plinth shine. Fold the cloth to a clean face as dust transfers, and avoid pulling across the arm. If a sticky spill reaches a gap, stop at external cleaning and contact support. A cloth cannot establish whether liquid has entered the mechanism beneath the surface.

Step 4: Brush the stylus in the correct direction

With power disconnected and the arm controlled securely, use a purpose-made stylus brush on the tip from rear to front. Never scrub sideways or push from front to rear. Use very light contact, keeping your fingers and the brush handle clear of the delicate cantilever. Work where you can actually see the tip rather than cleaning by feel. The goal is to remove attached debris, not bend the assembly to inspect its underside. If the tip looks crooked or damaged, stop and seek replacement advice.

Step 5: Keep specialist stylus cleaning optional

Audio-Technica's stylus-care instructions describe dedicated liquid and gel products, each with a different technique. Follow the exact cleaner's instructions if dry brushing is insufficient; do not substitute household alcohol or immerse the cartridge. Gel contact requires the platter to remain stationary. The AT-LP60X does not have a headshell that you should twist off for routine cleaning. A general tutorial for a detachable-headshell turntable is not permission to remove this one.

Step 6: Clean the dust cover separately

Light dust should be removed gently without rubbing grit across the clear surface. For marks requiring water, first remove the cover according to the manual and move it away from the player. Audio-Technica's dust-cover guidance recommends warm water and an acrylic-safe soft sponge, followed by blotting dry with a soft towel. Avoid abrasive paper and repeated dry buffing. Scratch-removal compounds are a separate restoration decision, not a routine cleaning requirement.

Step 7: Reassemble and evaluate one variable at a time

Return the dry mat and cover, check that nothing obstructs the tonearm, then reconnect power. Test with a clean record you know plays well. If noise remains on one disc only, investigate that disc before repeatedly brushing the stylus. Worn stylus tips and stretched belts are maintenance issues that cleaning cannot reverse. Keep a rough record of playing hours and consult the manual's replacement guidance. Wrong speed or an unsuitable PHONO/LINE connection also needs correction at the appropriate setting, not another dose of cleaner.