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As more and more phones are being made without a headphone jack, the options are narrowing for improving sound quality. As much as I love getting cheap new music on iTunes (or whatever they call it these days), I'd like to hear some old favorites too, and I want them to sound as good as they do on my vinyl records. Getting a USB compatible turntable seems like the best way to make that happen. Right now I've narrowed it down to three models: (1) Innovation Technologies Victrola Nostalgic Aviator 8-in-1 Turntable because it seems very easy to use and it has everything I would need too get started. It's also on the cheaper end, but that's not necessarily a plus since the price could mean it's made with poor materials. (2) Teac TN-300SE well-priced and I think I can manage it putting it together, but it might be a hassle. I'll also have to figure out how to use Audacity. (3) Audio-Technica AT-LP5 slightly pricey, though I don't mind it, but it looks tough to set up. Which one would you pick? Do you know of a better USB compatible turntable? My main goal is to get that same warm, rich sound like you'd hear on vinyl. Will this type of turntable do that or am I expecting too much?
I've used my own turntable to do some vinyl ripping. Bought a reasonably priced phono preamp with usb to go to the laptop. I downloaded Audacity for free. It takes awhile to catch on to using it. There's plenty of online info and forums dedicated to this. One thing I'd stay away from on your list is the first item. Looks like a waste of good money to me.
Check the possible output before selecting one. I bought one that only created MP3s which defeated the whole purpose. I could just buy the digital song directly for the exact same sound. I packed it up and took it back. Felt foolish for not checking beforehand.
I don't know much about the three models you listed. Just wanted to warn you about a different model. I bought a Crosley Nomad and was very disappointed. It skips a lot and the records don't fit well so it's wobbly. If Audacity looks too tough to learn, you can buy software from Pure Vinyl or Vinyl Studio. Both of these offer more hand-holding.
Hi, All of them will work, none are really of high quality. The least expensive one I know of that will deliver quality sound is one by Pro-ject. Their USB model is pretty good. It all sort of depends on what you are playing. If the LPs are in great condition then the P-J is the choice. If they are not...then pretty much any one will do. None will by themselves clean up a bad recording. Audocity can do a pretty good job, but it will not make them perfect.
As a purist, I don't like this idea. I can see the use for it, but it's not for me. I don't want to hear the type of sound a turntable puts out.....on my laptop.