Are you a vinyl enthusiast looking to optimize your turntable’s sound quality?
One way to achieve this is by connecting your turntable to a soundbar. But how do you do it?
In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of connecting your Audio-Technica turntable to a soundbar. Whether you’re a newcomer to the vinyl world or a seasoned audiophile, we’ve got you covered.
With our step-by-step instructions, you’ll be enjoying your vinyl collection in no time. So, let’s dive in and explore the different ways to connect your turntable to a soundbar for the best audio experience.
How To Connect Audio-Technica Turntable To Soundbar
There are different ways to connect your Audio-Technica turntable to a soundbar, depending on the type of turntable you have and the features of your soundbar.
The easiest way to connect your turntable to a soundbar is by using an analog AUX input. If your Audio-Technica turntable has a built-in phono stage and the PHONO/LINE switch is set to the LINE position, you can simply connect the turntable to the AUX input on the soundbar.
However, if your turntable does not have a built-in phono stage, you will need to add a separate phono stage between the turntable and the soundbar. This is because most soundbars do not have a built-in phono preamp, which is necessary to amplify the low-level signal from the turntable’s cartridge.
To connect your Audio-Technica turntable to a soundbar with a separate phono preamp, follow these steps:
1. Purchase a separate phono preamp that matches the output of your turntable’s cartridge.
2. Connect the turntable audio cables to the separate phono preamp, and any other wire your turntable has.
3. Connect the phono preamp audio cables to the receiver’s analog inputs (your soundbar).
4. Finally, connect the phono preamp to its power supply and switch on.
If your Audio-Technica turntable has a phono preamp, it’s faster to connect it to the AUX input than through the receiver’s input. This process saves two phono preamps from trying to boost the same signal, which won’t sound very good.
Understanding Your Audio-Technica Turntable
When selecting an Audio-Technica turntable, there are a few features to consider to ensure that you get the turntable that is best suited for your needs.
Firstly, consider the ease of setup and use. Some turntables have automatic operation, which means that they will lift the tonearm and return it to its resting position at the end of a record. Manual operation requires you to lift and place the tonearm onto the record manually.
Secondly, consider the speed requirements. Most Audio-Technica turntables have three speeds: 33, 45, and 78 RPM. Make sure that the turntable you select has the speed(s) that you need for your vinyl collection.
Thirdly, consider whether you want a permanently attached or replaceable cartridge. The cartridge is the component that houses the stylus (needle) and converts the mechanical vibrations from the record into an electrical signal that can be amplified and played through speakers or headphones. Some turntables have a permanently attached cartridge, while others allow you to replace the cartridge with one of your choosing.
It’s also important to understand the PHONO/LINE switch on Audio-Technica turntables. This switch turns the turntable’s internal RIAA preamp off/on, providing the correct equalization for your turntable’s current setup. If you’re using a PHONO input on a stereo receiver with its own RIAA preamp, set the PHONO/LINE switch to PHONO to disengage the turntable’s internal RIAA preamp. If you’re using any other input on a stereo receiver or powered speakers, set the PHONO/LINE switch to LINE to engage the turntable’s RIAA preamp.
Finally, it’s important to note that when listening to vinyl on your turntable, you may hear a faint high-pitched sound coming directly from it, which is not coming through the speakers or headphones. This is referred to as “needle talk” and is a normal physical phenomenon caused by excess energy being turned into sound before it is amplified and played through speakers or headphones. If you wish to lessen this effect, try closing the dust cover while listening.
Choosing The Right Soundbar For Your Turntable
When choosing a soundbar for your Audio-Technica turntable, there are a few things to consider.
Firstly, make sure that the soundbar has an AUX input or another type of analog input that can be used to connect to your turntable. This is important because not all soundbars have analog inputs, and some may only have digital inputs like HDMI or optical.
Secondly, consider the size of the soundbar and whether it will fit in your listening space. Soundbars come in all shapes and sizes, so choose one that suits your needs and preferences.
Thirdly, consider the sound quality of the soundbar. Look for a soundbar that has good reviews and a reputation for producing high-quality sound. It’s also worth considering whether the soundbar has any additional features like built-in equalizers or subwoofers that can enhance the listening experience.
Lastly, consider the price of the soundbar. Soundbars can range from budget-friendly options to high-end models with premium features. Choose one that fits within your budget while still providing good value for money.
Connecting Your Turntable To A Soundbar Via RCA Cables
Another way to connect your Audio-Technica turntable to a soundbar is by using RCA cables. This method is also commonly used, but it requires a bit more effort and additional equipment.
To connect your turntable to a soundbar via RCA cables, follow these steps:
1. Check if your Audio-Technica turntable has a built-in phono preamp. If it does, set the PHONO/LINE switch to the LINE position. If it doesn’t, you will need to add a separate phono preamp between the turntable and the soundbar, as mentioned above.
2. Connect the RCA cables from the turntable’s audio output jacks to the corresponding inputs on the phono preamp.
3. Connect another set of RCA cables from the phono preamp’s audio output jacks to the soundbar’s analog inputs.
4. Finally, connect the power supply to the phono preamp and switch it on.
It’s important to note that some soundbars may not have RCA inputs, in which case you may need to use an adapter or converter to connect the RCA cables to a different type of input on your soundbar.
Connecting Your Turntable To A Soundbar Via Bluetooth
Connecting your Audio-Technica turntable to a soundbar via Bluetooth is another option if your turntable has onboard Bluetooth or if you have a Bluetooth adapter.
If your turntable has Bluetooth, follow these steps to connect it to your soundbar:
1. Turn on both the turntable and the soundbar and ensure that Bluetooth is enabled on both devices.
2. Scan for nearby devices on your turntable, which should find your Bluetooth soundbar.
3. Pair the two devices, and any records you play on the turntable will come through the soundbar.
If your Audio-Technica turntable does not have onboard Bluetooth, you can use a Bluetooth adapter to transmit the signal to the soundbar.
To connect your turntable to a soundbar via a Bluetooth adapter, follow these steps:
1. Purchase a high-quality Bluetooth adapter that is compatible with your turntable and soundbar.
2. Plug the Bluetooth adapter into the turntable’s output, which is usually RCA cables.
3. Pair the adapter with your soundbar by following the manufacturer’s instructions.
4. Once paired, any records played on the turntable will be transmitted wirelessly to the soundbar.
It’s important to note that some Bluetooth adapters may produce noise issues or lower audio quality compared to a wired connection. However, with a good quality Bluetooth adapter, you can transmit the audio from your Audio-Technica turntable to the soundbar wirelessly with impressive clarity.
Connecting your Audio-Technica turntable to a soundbar via Bluetooth is a great way to enjoy your vinyl records without being limited by cables or wires. With this method, you can easily connect your turntable to any Bluetooth-enabled device, including portable speakers and headphones, for a more versatile listening experience.
Adjusting Sound Settings For Optimal Audio Quality
After connecting your Audio-Technica turntable to your soundbar, it’s important to adjust the sound settings to ensure optimal audio quality. Here are some tips to help you do just that:
1. Set the volume: Lower the volume of the turntable before connecting it to the soundbar. This will prevent any sudden loud noises that could damage your speakers or ears.
2. Adjust the equalizer: Most soundbars have an equalizer that can be adjusted to optimize the sound quality. Experiment with different settings to find the one that best suits your preferences.
3. Use a subwoofer: If your soundbar has a subwoofer, consider using it to enhance the bass and overall sound quality of your turntable.
4. Use high-quality cables: The quality of your cables can affect the sound quality of your turntable. Use high-quality RCA cables for optimal performance.
5. Position your speakers correctly: The position of your speakers can also affect the sound quality. Make sure they are positioned correctly and at an appropriate distance from each other.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your Audio-Technica turntable is connected to your soundbar properly and producing the best possible audio quality.
Troubleshooting Common Connection Issues
Despite following the above steps, some users may still experience connection issues when trying to connect their Audio-Technica turntable to a soundbar. Here are some common issues and how to troubleshoot them:
1. Bluetooth pairing issues: If you are using a Bluetooth-enabled turntable, pairing issues may arise. To troubleshoot this issue, try resetting the Bluetooth processing in the turntable. Press and hold down the Bluetooth button on the turntable for about 8-10 seconds until you see the indicator light blink red slowly twice. Then, release the button and put your Bluetooth receiving device (speaker or headphones) back into pairing mode. If this does not work, there may be another device causing wireless interference within your environment. Turn off all other wireless devices or move the turntable away from such devices.
2. Trouble connecting to TV soundbar: Some users have reported difficulty connecting their Audio-Technica turntable to their TV’s soundbar via Bluetooth. To troubleshoot this issue, try connecting the turntable to the TV AV input instead of connecting it directly to the soundbar. If the TV won’t let you switch to that input, connect the composite RCA video output of another source to trick it.
3. No sound or poor quality sound: If you are not getting any sound or experiencing poor quality sound, ensure that all cables are properly connected and that the volume on both the turntable and soundbar are turned up. Additionally, check that your turntable’s cartridge is properly aligned and that it is not worn out.
4. Wireless interference: Wireless interference can cause connectivity issues with your turntable and soundbar. To troubleshoot this issue, turn off all other wireless devices (Bluetooth devices, microwave ovens, Wi-Fi router, etc.) or move the turntable away from such devices.
By following these troubleshooting tips, users can successfully connect their Audio-Technica turntable to their soundbar and enjoy high-quality audio playback from their vinyl collection.
