Are you a music lover who wants to preserve the sound of your vinyl collection forever?
Or maybe you’re just getting into vinyl and want to digitize your records for easy listening on the go.
Either way, a USB turntable might be just what you need.
But how does it work?
In this article, we’ll break down the technical details of USB turntables, including what to look for when buying one and how to use it to digitize your vinyl collection.
So sit back, relax, and get ready to learn all about the magic of USB turntables.
How Does A USB Turntable Work
A USB turntable is a device that allows you to convert tracks on vinyl records into a digital format such as CD audio or MP3. It does this by using a built-in phono preamp and analog-to-digital converter to convert the cartridge’s analog signal to digital PCM, which is then sent to your computer via USB.
To use a USB turntable, simply power on your computer and turntable, and locate a free USB port on your PC. Then, plug the record player’s USB cable into the open port on your computer.
But what should you look for when buying a USB turntable?
First and foremost, it’s important to consider the quality of the turntable itself. Vinyl records slowly deteriorate with each play, so buying a cheap turntable can accelerate this degradation. The mechanics that control the physical contact between the needle and the grooves of the record will have a huge impact on the health of your vinyl over time.
It’s also important to consider whether you want a turntable or a record player. While these terms are often used interchangeably, there is a significant technical difference between the two. A turntable is a separate component that relies on other components such as an amplifier, a preamp, and speakers in order to generate sound. A record player is an all-in-one device that can play records without any other component. However, record players often have lower sound quality and can cause damage to your vinyl collection.
If you plan to use your USB turntable with an existing sound system, you’ll want to determine if you need a turntable that has a built-in preamp or not. Traditional turntables generate a very low output signal that needs to be amplified, which is why older stereo amps and receivers have a separate ‘phono’ input. If you plan to use the turntable with an existing amplifier/receiver that does not have a phono input, you’ll want to buy a turntable that has a built-in preamp.
Another important consideration is whether the cartridge is upgradable. The cartridge houses the stylus (or needle) which has the biggest impact on sound quality, so buying a turntable that does not allow it to be changed out or upgraded should be avoided.
Finally, you’ll want to consider whether you want an automatic or semi-automatic turntable. Automatic turntables will start and stop the record with a push of a button, while semi-automatic means you manually place the needle on the record and it auto-lifts the tonearm at the end. Semi-automatic units have fewer moving parts, so there’s less to go wrong.
What Is A USB Turntable?
A USB turntable is a type of record player that is designed specifically to connect to a personal computer via a USB cable. The purpose of connecting a turntable to a computer is typically to digitally encode the analog sound data contained on a vinyl record. This is done using a built-in phono preamp and analog-to-digital converter, which convert the cartridge’s analog signal to digital PCM and send it to the computer via USB.
There are different types of USB turntables available, ranging from those that simply output an audio stream to a PC, to those that can perform the entire encoding process themselves. The simplest type of USB turntable outputs an audio stream to a PC, which can then be captured using software and saved as an uncompressed file. This file can then be cleaned up and converted into different compressed music formats that can be played on a PC or a portable music player.
Other more complex USB turntables can use bidirectional controls so that the record player is actuated by the computer. Special programs allow this type of USB turntable to automatically drop the needle at the beginning of a desired song. Some USB turntables also have all the hardware necessary to record and encode the audio data, which means they can be plugged directly into a compatible portable music player.
Benefits Of Using A USB Turntable
One of the biggest benefits of using a USB turntable is the ability to make backups of your albums in case one gets damaged or borrowed by a friend. With a high-quality digital version of your favorite records, you can listen to them over and over again without wearing out the grooves. Additionally, converting your vinyl collection to digital format allows you to easily listen to your music on any device that supports digital audio files, such as smartphones, tablets, and computers.
Another benefit of using a USB turntable is the ability to improve the sound quality of your vinyl records. By converting the analog signal to digital PCM and then using software on your computer to convert it into the required format, you can enhance the sound quality and remove any unwanted noise or distortion from your recordings. This means that you can enjoy your favorite albums with improved clarity and fidelity, even if they were recorded decades ago.
Finally, using a USB turntable can be a great way to discover new music. Many vinyl records are no longer available in digital format, so by converting them to digital files, you can access a wealth of music that might not otherwise be available. Whether you’re looking for rare recordings or simply want to explore new genres, a USB turntable can help you expand your musical horizons and discover new favorites.
What To Look For When Buying A USB Turntable
When buying a USB turntable, there are several factors to consider. First, the quality of the turntable itself is crucial. A cheap turntable can accelerate the degradation of your vinyl records, so investing in a high-quality turntable is important.
Secondly, it’s important to decide whether you want a turntable or a record player. While these terms are often used interchangeably, there is a significant technical difference between the two. A turntable requires other components such as an amplifier, a preamp, and speakers in order to generate sound, while a record player is an all-in-one device that can play records without any other component. However, record players often have lower sound quality and can cause damage to your vinyl collection.
If you plan to use your USB turntable with an existing sound system, you’ll want to determine if you need a turntable that has a built-in preamp or not. Traditional turntables generate a very low output signal that needs to be amplified, which is why older stereo amps and receivers have a separate ‘phono’ input. If you plan to use the turntable with an existing amplifier/receiver that does not have a phono input, you’ll want to buy a turntable that has a built-in preamp.
Another important consideration is whether the cartridge is upgradable. The cartridge houses the stylus (or needle) which has the biggest impact on sound quality, so buying a turntable that does not allow it to be changed out or upgraded should be avoided.
Finally, you’ll want to consider whether you want an automatic or semi-automatic turntable. Automatic turntables will start and stop the record with a push of a button, while semi-automatic means you manually place the needle on the record and it auto-lifts the tonearm at the end. Semi-automatic units have fewer moving parts, so there’s less to go wrong.
How To Digitize Your Vinyl Collection With A USB Turntable
Digitizing your vinyl collection with a USB turntable is a simple process that can be done in just a few steps. First, connect your turntable to your computer via its USB output. Some USB turntables allow you to save files directly to a USB flash drive, too. Next, open the companion software that comes with your turntable or use a third-party option like VinylStudio if you prefer. The software will walk you through the process of hitting the record button, dropping the needle, and choosing what kind of digital file (WAV or MP3) you want to save it as.
If you’re new to record players or want an easier experience, consider purchasing a USB turntable with front control buttons that make your life easier. Look for a turntable with buttons that allow you to change its speed from 33 to 45rpm and start, stop, or lift the needle off of your record. A switch on top lets you select whether you’re playing a full album or single, so it can automatically drop the needle in the right spot. Around the back, look for a switch for phono (using the turntable’s built-in preamp) or line (lets you connect to an external preamp), analog out (lets you connect to a stereo system), and USB port (lets you connect to a computer).
If you already own a vinyl turntable, you can choose to add a USB phono preamplifier instead. This device allows you to digitize your vinyl records by placing it between your turntable and computer. You’ll need to use a phono cable to connect your turntable to the USB phono preamp and a USB cable to connect your preamp to your computer. Then open Audacity or any other recording software and start recording.
Tips For Maintaining Your USB Turntable
Maintaining your USB turntable is essential to ensure that it lasts for years and delivers high-quality sound. Here are some tips to help you maintain your USB turntable:
1. Keep it clean – Regularly clean your turntable to remove dust, dirt, and debris. Use a soft cloth or brush to gently wipe the surface of the turntable and remove any debris from the needle.
2. Store it properly – Always store your turntable in a safe and dry place. Avoid exposing it to direct sunlight or moisture, as this can damage the electronic components.
3. Replace the belt – The belt is an important component of your turntable that can wear out over time. If you notice that the belt is slipping lower on the pulley or is cracked, it’s time to replace it with a new one.
4. Upgrade the cartridge – Upgrading the cartridge can significantly improve the sound quality of your USB turntable. Look for a cartridge that is compatible with your turntable and fits your budget.
5. Set the tracking force – Setting the tracking force correctly is crucial for optimal sound quality. Too much or too little force can damage your vinyl and affect the sound quality.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your USB turntable remains in good condition and delivers high-quality sound for years to come.
