1)smooth/quiet operation (unlike the similar Denon DP300F), 2) ground wire eliminates any motor hum, 3

Smooth quiet operation and a nice rounded dust cover and an interesting white finish make the AT a good mid-range table with great sound.

but I gave it the benefit of the doubt as it betters its direct competitor, the Denon 300F, but it falls short against its sibling, the Audio-Technica LP120.

However, this isn't a huge deal aside from cosmetics because you can easily put another cartridge on the headshell, it just won't look as good as it would with the headshell designed for that cartridge.