2. pc-audio
  3. 1076025177

Turntable To PC Audio Connection To Make CD's

Desire to convert my LP's to CD. Have a HP computer with all the bells and whistles. Would like to record the LP's to the computer then make CD's.

What Have I done so far: (1)connected Turntable (which has built-in preamp) to Tape-In on Receiver as recommended by manufacturer because Receiver does not have Phono input). (2) connected Tape-out to Line-in of Computer (custom made 75 Ohm coaxial). (3) Same type of cable used to connect Computer Line-out to Receiver tape-in.

Problems? (1) Sound from Receiver is very low when playing turntable. Can be corrected by turning up the volume dial. (2) Sound from Turntable to Computer via the Receiver is almost inaudible even with all the computer volume controls set at 95 percent.

Solutions Tried To Date: To test the cable,Tape-output jack and Line-in, I switched the Receiver to FM radio. Sound volume was OK. Directly connecting the turntable to the computer resulted in audible sound but major distortions.

Any suggestions on how to get clear and audible sound from the turntable to the computer?

mymortgageloan2cf6d

Showing 3 responses by basfrommobay

basfrommobay
6 posts
 
Rwwear:

The turntable is an Audio Technica AT-PL 120. The built-in PreAmp has output specs of 38dB Gain and 200mV. The preamp can be turned off. Would an independent pre-amp or pre-amp/mixer be a better idea if the gain is higner? Most of what I have seen are professional grades and expensive.

The Receiver (Harman Kardon 7200) does not have a phono input.
basfrommobay
6 posts
 
Rwwear & Richingoth:

Thanks for the suggestions. The Hewlett Packard help site states that the computer should be connected to a pair of speaker outputs. I am afraid of that option because it may "fry" the computer if someone accidentally turns up the volume of the Receiver.

The computer has Line-in volume input settings. Based on my research on the net, I have set the volume meter at 95 percent.

The Receiver does not have Auxilliary or Phono input or output. That was the reason why Harman Kardon's technical support recommended using the Tape-in and Tape-out jacks.

The Tape-in jacks are not used at the same time for TT and Computer. I test the TT output then I switch the cables
To test the Computer output.

I do not believe the cables are a problem. Whenever I play the FM Tuner to test the set-up, volume and clarity are OK.

basfrommobay
6 posts
 
Everyone:

SOLUTION FOUND. The problem was so simple I am embarrassed.
The tape-out connector on this new receiver is not working . I spent a lot of time trying researching the possible causes on the internet, money for special order cables, and new pre-amp. No solution.

Then I forgot the new technology and returned to basics-to solve a problem try the easy options first. I then removed all the expensive cables and pre-amp. I reconnected the original cables to another audio-out on the receiver and VIOLA! clear and audible sound from the computer speakers. I then tried the other audio-out connectors and they also worked.

What have I learnt? Too much information, at times can be useless. I would have first used the simple options If I had not read so much, on the inernet, about the need for special cables,pre-Amps and mixers, special sound cards and recording software,the difficulties of transfering LP's to CD's via a turntable, receiver and computer etc.

Next task-reducing the snaps, pops and crackles in the sound from the LP's. Simple solution to start-wash with small amount of mild dishwashing liquid. THEN use the sound suppressing technology.

I am now using the standard hardware and software that came with my computer. I may change the soundard just to get better Bass control and digital connectors.

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