The Computer
Most computers
will be supplied with a soundcard. All you need to do is connect the soundcard
and the turntable, BUT the output from a magnetic cartridge is too low to work
properly with a soundcard (or many modern amplifiers that no longer have a 'phono'
turntable input). You will need a 'preamplifier' to boost the signal so there
is enough 'oomph' for the amplifier. You could use an old amplifier with a phono
input (by connecting the tape output to the soundcard input) or using a stand
alone preamplifier. Usually all you need is a cable with a mini headphone plug
on one end and RCA plugs on the other (as on the right).
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A
3.5mm to phono connector cable for connecting the preamplifier or tape
output to the computer
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The
connectors on the back of a music system that has a phono input. Phono
is the input for the turntable. In this case the 'video sound out' will
work to connect to the soundcard as there is no tape output. Do not use
the speaker outputs!
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Here
is the connection on a HiFi amplifier. In this case the output is called
'Tape 1 Rec'. Use the output that will send a line level signal to a cassette
recorder or video system
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These
are the connections on a stand alone phono preamplifier. Use one of these
if your amplifier or sound system does not have a input. The Input connects
to the turntable, the output goes to the sound card.
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This is the connector
on the back of the soundcard. It looks like a row of mini headphone sockets.
If you want a better pic of the connectors try this link: www.delback.co.uk/
soundcard.htm
Computers have
the advantage of allowing you to record the audio from and LP and then manipulate
the sound file. Things you can do to the audio file include:
- trimming any
'dead areas' at the beginning or end of the recording
- filtering to
remove rumble or other noises
- electronically
cleaning the file to reduce clicks and pops
- adjusting the
volume
- splitting the
file into separate tracks
To record audio
the computer you will need to have a soundcard installed. Consumer type soundcards
will suit most users, but there are a number of very good professional soundcards
available.
Thje software
used in this tutorial is Wave
Corrector, the software I currently use in preference. There is a version
of this tutorial using an outdated version of CoolEdit Pro, but this is out
of date and no longer updated.
