How To Play Vinyl Records Through Your Computer

Audiophiles may give you a hard time.

But there are a number of good reasons you might want to lay your records through your computer.

Luckily, it’s fairly easy to do.

Once you know how to play vinyl record through a computer, you’ll be able to get it all set up in no time.

Assuming you have the right equipment.

We will cover the equipment you need first, before getting into our step-by-step guide on playing vinyl records through a computer.

 

How To Play Vinyl Records Through Computer

There are basically two main scenarios: your record player either has a USB port, or it does not. The procedure for playing your records through a computer differs depending on the presence of a USB port.

 

Materials Needed

The equipment you need to play your record through a computer also depends on whether you have a USB turntable or a non-USB turntable. Here’s what you’ll need for each scenario.

 

USB Turntable

A USB turntable is a turntable that has a built-in analog-to-digital converter and a USB output. This allows you to connect the turntable directly to your computer using a USB cable.

The USB turntable handles the conversion of the analog audio signal from the vinyl record to a digital format that can be played on your computer. In addition to the turntable, you will also need the following.

Computer With A USB port

You will need a computer with an available USB port to connect the USB turntable. Make sure your computer meets the system requirements for the USB turntable, if any.

Audio Playback Software

You will need audio playback software on your computer to play the digitized vinyl audio. There are various software options available, such as VLC Media Player, iTunes, or dedicated vinyl playback software.

Depending on your system, different software options allow you to edit and trim mp3 on Mac, to enhance your digitized vinyl recordings in many ways. If you are using a PC, you have even more software options, like the free Audacity.

 

Non-USB Turntable

A non-USB turntable is a traditional turntable that does not have a built-in analog-to-digital converter or a USB output. It requires additional equipment to connect it to your computer.

Phono Preamp

A phono preamp (also known as a phono stage or phono amplifier) is required to amplify the low-level signal produced by the turntable’s cartridge. This preamp boosts the signal to line level, which can then be connected to your computer’s line-in or microphone input.

Audio Interface (optional)

If your computer does not have a dedicated line-in or microphone input, you may need an audio interface. An audio interface acts as an external sound card and provides the necessary inputs and outputs to connect your turntable to your computer.

Audio Cables

You will need audio cables to connect the turntable to the phono preamp and the preamp to your computer or audio interface. The specific cables required may vary depending on the connections available on your turntable, preamp, and computer or audio interface.

 

Step-By-Step Guide For Connecting A USB Turntable

To properly set up the connections if you have a USB turntable, follow these step-by-step instructions.

Step 1: Position Your USB Turntable

Place your USB turntable on a stable surface near your computer. Ensure it is level and secure.

Step 2: Connect The USB Cable

Take the USB cable that came with your turntable and plug one end into the USB output on the turntable.

Step 3: Connect The USB Cable To Your Computer

Plug the other end of the USB cable into an available USB port on your computer. Make sure the connection is secure.

Step 4: Install Any Necessary Drivers

Some USB turntables may require you to install specific drivers on your computer. Check the manufacturer’s instructions or their website for any driver downloads or software that needs to be installed. Follow the instructions provided to complete the installation process.

Step 5: Set up Audio Playback Software

Open your preferred audio playback software on your computer. This can be software like VLC Media Player, iTunes, or dedicated vinyl playback software. Check the software’s settings to ensure it recognizes the USB turntable as the audio input source.

Step 6: Test The Connection

Place a vinyl record on the turntable and start playing it. Use the playback controls in the audio software to start playing the audio. You should now be able to hear the sound from your vinyl records through your computer’s speakers or headphones.

 

Step-By-Step Guide For Connecting A Non-USB Turntable

To properly set up the connections with a non-USB turntable, follow these step-by-step instructions.

Step 1: Position Your Non-USB Turntable

Place your non-USB turntable on a stable surface near your computer. Ensure it is level and secure.

Step 2: Connect The Turntable To A Phono Preamp

Take an audio cable and connect one end to the turntable’s output jacks. The specific type of cable required may vary depending on the connections on your turntable. Connect the other end of the cable to the input jacks on your phono preamp.

Step 3: Connect The Phono Preamp To Your Computer Or Audio Interface

Take another audio cable and connect one end to the output jacks on your phono preamp. Connect the other end of the cable to either the line-in or microphone input jack on your computer, or to the input jacks on your audio interface if you’re using one.

Step 4: Set Up Audio Playback Software

Open your preferred audio playback software on your computer. Check the software’s settings to ensure it recognizes the line-in or microphone input as the audio source.

Step 5: Power On The Turntable And Preamp

Make sure the turntable and preamp are powered on and functioning properly. Some turntables may require manual operation to start spinning the record.

Step 6: Test The Connection

Place a vinyl record on the turntable and start playing it. Use the playback controls in the audio software to start playing the audio. You should now be able to hear the sound from your vinyl records through your computer’s speakers or headphones.

 

Possible Issues And Troubleshooting

If you encounter any issues while playing vinyl records through your computer, here are some possible problems and troubleshooting steps to try.

 

Poor Sound Quality Or Distortion

Check your audio settings and ensure the cables are securely connected. Adjust the input levels and equalizer settings to optimize the sound. If using a non-USB turntable, check that your phono preamp is functioning correctly.

 

No Sound Or Low Volume

Verify that the turntable and preamp (if applicable) are powered on. Make sure the cables are properly connected, and check the audio settings on your computer or audio playback software. Make sure the input source is set to the correct audio input.

 

USB Connection Issues

If using a USB turntable, try using a different USB port on your computer. Ensure the USB cable is securely connected. Install any necessary drivers or software for the USB turntable as per the manufacturer’s instructions.

 

Play Vinyl Records Through A Computer: Final Thoughts

Playing vinyl records through a computer can be a gratifying experience that bridges the gap between analog and digital music. Whether you have a USB turntable that allows for a straightforward, direct connection or a non-USB turntable that requires a bit more setup involving a phono preamp and possibly an audio interface, the process is manageable with the right equipment and software.

By following the detailed steps provided for both scenarios, you can enjoy the rich, warm sounds of vinyl through the convenience of your computer’s audio system. Remember to test your setup and troubleshoot any issues that arise to ensure the best possible sound quality.