Audio-Technica AT-SB Replacement Needle
Belt drive · 33 and 45 rpm · Built-in phono preamp
Covers the AT-SB727 and AT-SB2022.
Which version do you have?
If you have the AT-SB727
The needle you need
ATN3600LC
The AT-SB727 takes the Audio-Technica ATN3600LC needle.
- Genuine Audio-Technica part
- Conical tip
If you have the AT-SB2022
The needle you need
ATN3600LC
Audio-Technica names the ATN3600L, which Audio-Technica has replaced with the ATN3600LC.
Originally fitted: ATN3600L
- Genuine Audio-Technica part
- Conical tip
Upgrades that fit the AT-SB
Audio-Technica makes the ATN3600LE, with an elliptical tip, which fits the same AT3600L cartridge. It pushes into the same body as the standard ATN3600LC, so you change only the needle. The standard ATN3600LC has a conical tip.
ATN3600LE
Elliptical tip · About 300 hours of play
Do you need a phono preamp?
A phono preamp boosts the very quiet signal from the cartridge.
The AT-SB has one built in that cannot be switched off, so plug it into powered speakers or a line input, not a phono input.
Speakers that work with the AT-SB
Connect the AT-SB's RCA output to the line input on any of these.
M20
Takes Bluetooth too, so it can play the AT-SB's Bluetooth signal with no cable.
ORA
Has a subwoofer output, if you want more bass later.
The Fives
Also has a phono input, for a record player without a built-in preamp.
Key facts: Audio-Technica AT-SB
Same on every version that lists it
- DriveBelt drive
- OperationManual
- Speeds33 and 45 rpm
- CartridgeAT3600L
- Cartridge mountBuilt into the arm
- Removable headshellNo
- Tracking force3.5 g
- Built-in phono preampYes
- BluetoothYes, sends to speakers
- USBNo
- Dust coverNo
- PlatterAluminium
- Power supplyInternal 3.6V lithium-ion battery (USB-C charging 5V 0.5A)
- Size (W × D × H)100 × 290 × 70 mm
- Weight0.9 kg
Audio-Technica does not list the operation, cartridge or tracking force for the AT-SB2022, or say whether it has a dust cover.
Versions of the AT-SB
| Version | Status | Needle | Codes and colours |
|---|---|---|---|
| AT-SB727 | Current | ATN3600LC | AT-SB727BK, AT-SB727WH, AT-SB727YL |
| AT-SB2022 | Discontinued | ATN3600L | – |
Other record players that take the ATN3600LC
How to change the needle on the AT-SB
With the arm on its rest, hold the AT3600L cartridge still, pull the old needle forward and down by its front lip, then push the ATN3600LC in from the front until it sits flush.
We take these details from Audio-Technica's own website and check them carefully, but makers change parts and part numbers, and we may miss an update. Before you buy, check the part on Audio-Technica's official website. If you spot an error, please tell us.
Questions about the AT-SB
Does the AT-SB need a separate phono preamp?
No. The AT-SB has a phono preamp built in, and it cannot be switched off, so connect it to powered speakers or a line input rather than a phono input.
Is there an upgrade needle for the AT-SB?
Yes. Audio-Technica makes the ATN3600LE, with an elliptical tip, which fits the same AT3600L cartridge. The standard ATN3600LC has a conical tip.
Can I fit a different cartridge to the AT-SB?
No. On the AT-SB the AT3600L cartridge is built into the tonearm, so only its needle can be replaced.
Can the AT-SB play 78 rpm records?
No. The AT-SB plays at 33 and 45 rpm only.
Do all versions of the AT-SB take the same needle?
No. The AT-SB727 takes the ATN3600LC. The AT-SB2022 takes the ATN3600L.