Are you excited to start enjoying your vinyl collection on an Audio Technica turntable?
Setting up your new turntable may seem daunting at first, but with the right instructions, it can be a breeze.
In this article, we’ll guide you through the step-by-step process of assembling your Audio Technica turntable, from removing the protective packaging to connecting it to your audio system.
So, let’s get started and have you spinning your favorite records in no time!
How To Assemble Audio Technica Turntable
Step 1: Remove Protective Packaging
The first step in assembling your Audio Technica turntable is to remove the protective packaging. This includes the twist tie and foam wrap used to protect the tonearm during shipment. Once removed, secure the arm to its rest with the locking clamp.
Step 2: Attach Headshell/Cartridge Assembly
Next, attach the headshell/cartridge assembly by inserting it into the socket at the end of the tonearm. While holding the headshell in position, rotate the headshell locking ring counterclockwise (to the left). As the ring rotates, it pulls the headshell into its seated position. Hand tighten the ring until it is snug.
Step 3: Connect Turntable to Audio System
If your audio system has PHONO inputs, set the turntable’s PHONO/LINE switch to PHONO and connect the turntable using the provided dual RCA audio cable. Attach one end of the audio cable’s integrated ground wire to the ground lug on the turntable and the other end to the ground lug on your audio system.
Step 4: Place Slip Mat and Cycle Platter
Place the slip mat on the platter and (with the tonearm still fastened to its rest) rotate the platter ten times in a clockwise direction. This ensures that the automatic mechanism is fully cycled.
Step 5: Remove Stylus Guard and Attach Dust Cover
Remove the plastic tie that is securing the tonearm to its rest and discard it. While holding the tonearm in the rest position, carefully remove the plastic stylus guard by slowly pulling it forward. Be careful not to damage the stylus.
Finally, attach the provided dust cover by inserting its hinges onto the rear of the turntable and then placing it onto those hinges.
Assembling The Platter And Belt
Now that the tonearm and cartridge are properly attached, it’s time to assemble the platter and belt. The drive belt is preinstalled on the record platter, but a red ribbon is inserted between the belt and the platter’s drive rim to aid in placing the belt around the brass motor pulley.
Start by removing the tape securing the ribbon to the platter and carefully push both ends of the ribbon through the platter opening. Then, carefully place the platter with installed drive belt on the center spindle, making sure it fully seats on the spindle.
Next, rotate the platter by hand until the opening with the red ribbon exposes the brass-colored motor pulley. The motor pulley is located in the upper left corner of the turntable, opposite the tonearm.
While holding the platter steady, use both ends of the ribbon to stretch the belt over the motor pulley. Once the belt is seated in the pulley’s groove, verify that it is not twisted. You can then discard the ribbon.
Finally, place the rubber record mat on top of the platter. With this step completed, your Audio Technica turntable is now fully assembled and ready to play your favorite vinyl records.
Connecting Your Turntable To Your Audio System
Connecting your Audio Technica turntable to your audio system is a straightforward process that requires a few simple steps. First, it’s important to understand whether your audio system has PHONO inputs or not. If it does, you can connect the turntable directly using the provided dual RCA audio cable.
To do this, set the turntable’s PHONO/LINE switch to PHONO and attach one end of the audio cable’s integrated ground wire to the ground lug on the turntable and the other end to the ground lug on your audio system. Then, connect the RCA plugs from the turntable cable into the corresponding RCA inputs on your audio system.
If your audio system doesn’t have PHONO inputs, you will need to use a separate phono preamp or a receiver with a built-in phono preamp. In this case, set the turntable’s PHONO/LINE switch to LINE and connect it using the provided dual RCA audio cable. Attach one end of the audio cable’s integrated ground wire to the ground lug on the turntable and the other end to the ground lug on your phono preamp or receiver.
Once you’ve connected your turntable to your audio system, you can power on your system and start enjoying your vinyl collection. Remember to set the preamp switch on the rear of your turntable to correspond with the device you are connecting to – PHONO for PHONO inputs and LINE for line-level inputs.
By following these simple steps, you can easily connect your Audio Technica turntable to your audio system and start enjoying high-quality vinyl playback.
Testing Your Audio Technica Turntable
Now that you have assembled your Audio Technica turntable, it’s time to test it out. Here are some steps you can take to ensure that your turntable is functioning properly:
Step 1: Check Connections
Make sure that all connections are secure and properly plugged in. Double-check that the PHONO/LINE switch is set to the correct setting depending on your audio system’s inputs.
Step 2: Test Audio Output
Turn on your audio system and set the volume to a moderate level. Place a record on the turntable and gently lower the tonearm onto the record. You should be able to hear audio coming from your speakers. If you don’t hear anything, try adjusting the volume or checking the connections again.
Step 3: Check for Distortion or Skipping
Listen for any distortion or skipping in the audio playback. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including an improperly aligned cartridge or a dirty stylus. If you notice any issues, consult the user manual or contact Audio Technica customer support for assistance.
Step 4: Test Automatic Features
If your turntable has automatic features such as auto-stop or return, test them out to make sure they are functioning properly. Place a record on the turntable and start playback. Once the record has finished playing, the turntable should automatically stop or return the tonearm to its rest position.
By following these steps, you can ensure that your Audio Technica turntable is assembled correctly and functioning properly. Enjoy your vinyl collection with confidence knowing that your turntable is set up correctly!
