A turntable is a device that helps to play sound recordings. It is basically the circular platform of the phonograph that you may have already seen. If you want to know how to set up turntable, you have come at the perfect place. In this article, you will know everything about a turntable and how to operate it. So, let’s begin!
Ways to set up a turntable
If you are someone who do not know how to set up a turntable, there is nothing you need to worry about. You may think that it is a very complicated process. But in reality, it isn’t. Rather, the process is pretty simple and easy to understand. However, a few things are there that should be known by you before you purchase a setup. This guide will try to explain to you the various setup configurations, the key components and also the FAQs related to it.
Phono Preamp
An output Phono signal is produced by a turntable. This signal is to be converted into an Aux signal to make it work with audio equipment which include computers, stereo systems and powered speakers. A Phono preamp helps converting Phono to Aux (Line level) signal.
Amplifier and common turntable setup
For this particular setup, you will firstly need a turntable, of course, then a Preamp (external or built-in), cartridge, stereo system or amplifier. This one is the most commonly used turntable setup. Try adding a turntable to the existing stereo system of yours. Make sure if you need the preamp or not.
Turntable setup with active or powered speakers
Here you will need the same threecomponents as mentioned under the previous point, except the last one. Instead, you will need active or powered speakers. This is a streamlined setup. Connect your Preamp or turntable directly to your active or powered speaker. If you have an active speaker, it has to be self-powered and will not need a stereo system or additional amplifier. The speaker will always contain one power cord.
Turntable setup for a computer
Here again, the first three components are same except the last one. For the fourth option you will of course need a computer. If there is a USB output to your turntable, connect the turntable directly into the computer device. If there is no USB output, an adaptor will be needed for inputting it into the audio input section of the computer. Usually it is a headphone style input.
Turntables – direct drive versus belt drive
In belt drive turntable, there is an independent motor which drives the platter through a rubber belt. On the other hand, direct drive turntables feature a platter which is fully integral to that motor. Direct drive turntables seem perfectly suitable for DJing. But the belt drive ones are not suitable.
Turntables, which do not consist of a pre-existing preamp, need grounding. These ones feature a cable which should be attached to the Preamp (Be it a mixer, an external preamp, an amplifier etc.)
FAQs
1. Do Turntables need a receiver?
You should definitely want a receiver for better sound quality. You simply can’t go without it and expect the quality of sound to be the best.
2. Should turntables be levelled perfectly?
If you use an equipment rack, you may need to level your whole setup. If your turntable is positioned on a shelf & it isn’t levelled, fix it properly and if you can’t, accept the limitations &take help from someone who can do it properly.
