Are you ready to dust off your vinyl collection and experience the rich, warm sound of analog music? Look no further than the Audio Technica turntable.
With its built-in Bluetooth transmitter and analog audio output, this turntable offers a versatile listening experience. But how do you set it up and start playing your favorite records?
Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps to connect your turntable to various playback devices and get you ready to enjoy your vinyl collection once again.
So sit back, relax, and let’s get started!
How To Play Audio Technica Turntable
Step 1: Connect the Analog Audio Cable
The first step is to connect the analog audio cable to the “Analog Out” port on the back center of the turntable. The cable’s 3.5 mm plug should be connected to the turntable, while the RCA end (red and white plugs) should be connected to your desired playback device. This is commonly a stereo receiver or powered speakers.
Step 2: Set the Switch on the Rear of the Turntable
If you’re connecting to inputs on a stereo receiver specifically labeled “PHONO,” move the switch on the rear of the turntable to PHONO. This bypasses the turntable’s internal RIAA magnetic phono preamp, which isn’t needed since the stereo receiver’s PHONO input has the same RIAA magnetic phono preamp. If you’re connecting to any other input on a stereo receiver (Aux, Line, Tape, CD, etc.) or connecting directly to powered speakers, move the switch on the rear of the turntable to LINE. This engages the turntable’s internal RIAA magnetic phono preamp.
Step 3: Connect to a 3.5 mm Analog AUX Input
If you’re connecting the turntable to a 3.5 mm analog AUX input on a speaker or receiver, you may use a 3.5 mm stereo AUX cable (not included). No need for additional adapter cables.
Step 4: Install the Dust Cover
Finally, install the dust cover hinges into the slots on the dust cover and insert them into the slots on the rear of the turntable.
And that’s it! You’re all set up and ready to start enjoying your records once again.
Connecting Your Turntable To A Bluetooth Speaker
If you prefer a wireless setup, you can connect your Audio Technica turntable to a Bluetooth speaker. To do this, you will need a phono preamp, a Bluetooth transmitter, and powered speakers (or an amp) with a Bluetooth input or receiver.
Step 1: Connect the Analog Audio Cable
Follow the same instructions as in Step 1 of the previous section to connect the analog audio cable from the turntable to the phono preamp. Then, connect the phono preamp to the Bluetooth transmitter using an RCA-to-3.5mm cable.
Step 2: Pairing Your Devices
Place the Bluetooth speaker close to the turntable (within 1 meter) to ensure a successful pairing process. Set your Bluetooth speaker into “pairing mode” by referring to its user manual. Locate the Wireless Function Button and LED on the turntable and press it to activate the Bluetooth transmitter. The LED will flash blue.
Press and hold the Wireless Function Button until the LED flashes red and blue. Release the button. When the LED is flashing red and blue, the turntable’s wireless transmitter is in “Pairing Mode” and searching for another device to pair with. The LED will turn solid blue when it has successfully paired with your Bluetooth speaker.
Step 3: Adjust Audio Settings
When the turntable is transmitting via Bluetooth, use your Bluetooth speaker to control volume, equalization, and other audio related functions.
Please note that while Bluetooth can sound good, you may lose out on some musical detail and accuracy due to digitized and compressed signals. If you’re looking for higher fidelity wireless options, consider a system like Sonos.
With these steps, you can easily connect your Audio Technica turntable to a Bluetooth speaker and enjoy your vinyl records wirelessly.
Connecting Your Turntable To A Stereo System
If you want to connect your Audio Technica turntable to a stereo system, there are a few options available to you. The first step is to determine whether your turntable has an internal RIAA preamp or not. If it does, you can connect the turntable directly to powered speakers that have an analog input (RCA connection).
If your powered speakers have an RCA input, simply connect the RCA (red and white) plugs from the turntable cable into the corresponding RCA inputs on the powered speaker. If your powered speakers have a 3.5 mm (female) input, connect the RCA (red and white) plugs from the turntable cable to the RCA (female) to 3.5 mm (1/8′′) mini-plug (male) adapter cable, making sure to match red plug to red plug and white to white. Then connect the adapter cable’s 3.5 mm mini-plug to the powered speakers’ Line Level input.
If your powered speakers have a 3.5 mm (male) input, connect the RCA (red and white) plugs from the turntable cable to an RCA to 3.5 mm (1/8′′) mini-plug (female) adapter cable. Then connect the adapter’s 3.5 mm mini-plug to the powered speakers’ 3.5 mm input cable.
If your turntable doesn’t have a built-in phono preamp, you’ll need to connect a standalone phono preamp between the turntable and the speaker system or headphones. This adds a second set of cables to the chain. Once you’ve done that, you can connect your phono preamp or turntable with a built-in phono preamp to a Bluetooth transmitter if you wish to have your turntable on a table or shelf that’s not close to your speakers.
Adjusting The Turntable Settings For Optimal Sound Quality
Now that you’ve set up your Audio Technica turntable, it’s time to adjust the settings for optimal sound quality. Follow these steps to get the best sound possible from your turntable:
Step 1: Level the Turntable
Make sure your turntable is level. Uneven surfaces can cause the stylus to skip or cause unnecessary wear on your records. Use a bubble level to ensure that your turntable is perfectly level.
Step 2: Adjust the Counterweight
The counterweight on your turntable is used to balance the tonearm and apply the correct amount of tracking force to the stylus. Your turntable’s instruction manual should detail how much tracking force to apply (usually measured in grams). Place the gauge on your turntable platter, put the stylus on the pad, then adjust the counterweight to dial in the correct weight.
Step 3: Set the Anti-Skate
Anti-skate helps keep the stylus in the groove by applying a slight inward force on the tonearm. Your turntable’s instruction manual should detail how much anti-skate to apply (usually measured in grams). Set the anti-skate to match the tracking force you set in Step 2.
Step 4: Check Cartridge Alignment
Make sure that your cartridge is properly aligned with your turntable’s tonearm. Improper alignment can cause distortion, poor tracking, and unnecessary wear on your records. Your turntable’s instruction manual should detail how to properly align your cartridge.
Step 5: Clean Your Records
Regularly cleaning your records can greatly improve sound quality. Use a record cleaning brush or a record cleaning machine to remove dust and dirt from your records.
By following these steps, you’ll be able to get optimal sound quality from your Audio Technica turntable. Remember, taking care of your turntable and records will ensure that you can enjoy them for years to come.
Playing Your Vinyl Records On The Audio Technica Turntable
Now that your Audio Technica turntable is set up, it’s time to start playing your vinyl records. Here are the steps you need to take to do so:
Step 1: Power On Your Playback Device
Make sure your playback device, whether it’s a stereo receiver or powered speakers, is turned on and set to the correct input.
Step 2: Place Your Vinyl Record on the Turntable
Carefully place your vinyl record onto the turntable, making sure it’s centered and secure.
Step 3: Select the Correct Speed
Select the correct speed for your vinyl record by adjusting the speed selector switch on the turntable. Most records will be played at 33 1/3 RPM, but some may require 45 RPM or even 78 RPM.
Step 4: Start the Turntable
Gently move the tonearm over to the edge of the record and press the start button on the turntable. The turntable should begin spinning and the needle should lower onto the record.
Step 5: Adjust Volume and Tone Controls
Adjust the volume and tone controls on your playback device to your desired level and sound quality.
Step 6: Enjoy Your Vinyl Record
Sit back and enjoy your vinyl record! When it’s finished playing, gently lift the tonearm off of the record and return it to its resting position. You can then either flip the record over to play the other side or remove it from the turntable.
By following these simple steps, you can enjoy all of your favorite vinyl records on your Audio Technica turntable with ease.
Maintaining And Cleaning Your Turntable For Longevity
To ensure that your Audio Technica turntable lasts for a long time, it’s important to keep it clean and well-maintained. Here are some tips on how to do that:
1. Keep it clean: Dirt and dust can build up on your turntable over time, affecting its performance and sound quality. Make sure to dust it regularly with a soft cloth or brush to keep it clean.
2. Use a record cleaning fluid: For heavily soiled vinyl records, a record cleaning fluid can help loosen the dirt and grime stuck in the grooves, making it easier to wipe away. Spray 3-4 pumps of fluid around the surface of the record, avoiding the label to prevent damage. Gently wipe the fluid around the record and into the grooves with a clean lint-free cloth, then lightly buff the surface with the cloth. Allow the record to dry before playing it.
3. Keep your stylus clean: A dirty stylus can collect dust and debris over time, causing static sound on your records. Clean your stylus regularly with a stylus brush or cleaning solution to ensure the best sound quality. A clean stylus will also prevent scratches and smudges on your records, which can be very damaging in the long run.
4. Unplug your turntable: Before cleaning your turntable, make sure to unplug it completely from any power or audio cables for safety reasons.
5. Use turntable accessories: Fluance’s line of turntable accessories can help you maximize the performance of your Audio Technica turntable. Upgrading your turntable with performance-enhancing components such as superior styli, platters or other turntable accessories can take your analog music listening experience to the next level.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your Audio Technica turntable stays in great condition for years to come, providing you with high-quality sound and an enjoyable listening experience.
