Turntable To Computer Hookup PROBLEM SOLVED

[Jimbo]

I just wanted to thank all of you who helped me with the problem I had
trying to hookup my turntable to my computer a few weeks ago (see
original post below). The problem was solved by simply connecting a 'V'
cable from the R/L Tape Rec outputs on the back of my stereo receiver
(no pre-amp was needed after all) to the "sound in" jack on the back of
my computer. No buzzing sound, No hassle, and only $10.00 spent at Radio
Shack on a 'V' cable. Thanks again.

> My goal is to be able to record from my turntable to my computer so that
> I can burn to CD. Right now, I have just installed and connected the
> M-Audio Audiophile USB 2496 to my stereo receiver's tape rec outputs and
> no sound is coming out, nor is it working with my software (CD Spin
> Doctor). before that I was using a phono preamp, which seemed to work,
> but was giving me a buzz. I'm not sure what I should have the sound
> control panel set at, but I've tried everything from "sound in" and "RCA
> in" to Audiophile USB. Still nothing.
>
> Anyhow, with the money i am spending and difficulties I am having trying
> to get this all to work I am growing increasingly frustrated. So, if
> anyone can give me some simple steps to get my $150.00 Audiophile 2496
> to work with my turntable and software on my Mac computer I would
> greatly appreciate it. I am having so much trouble with this.

[matt neuburg]

Jimbo > wrote:

> I just wanted to thank all of you who helped me with the problem I had
> trying to hookup my turntable to my computer a few weeks ago (see
> original post below). The problem was solved by simply connecting a 'V'
> cable from the R/L Tape Rec outputs on the back of my stereo receiver
> (no pre-amp was needed after all) to the "sound in" jack on the back of
> my computer. No buzzing sound, No hassle, and only $10.00 spent at Radio
> Shack on a 'V' cable. Thanks again.

It's great to know that you solved the problem, even though the buzz has
not been satisfactorily explained. m.


>
> > My goal is to be able to record from my turntable to my computer so that
> > I can burn to CD. Right now, I have just installed and connected the
> > M-Audio Audiophile USB 2496 to my stereo receiver's tape rec outputs and
> > no sound is coming out, nor is it working with my software (CD Spin
> > Doctor). before that I was using a phono preamp, which seemed to work,
> > but was giving me a buzz. I'm not sure what I should have the sound
> > control panel set at, but I've tried everything from "sound in" and "RCA
> > in" to Audiophile USB. Still nothing.
> >
> > Anyhow, with the money i am spending and difficulties I am having trying
> > to get this all to work I am growing increasingly frustrated. So, if
> > anyone can give me some simple steps to get my $150.00 Audiophile 2496
> > to work with my turntable and software on my Mac computer I would
> > greatly appreciate it. I am having so much trouble with this.


--
matt neuburg, phd = , http://www.tidbits.com/matt/
AppleScript: The Definitive Guide
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0596005571/somethingsbymatt
Read TidBITS! It's free and smart. http://www.tidbits.com

[matt neuburg]

Jimbo > wrote:

> I just wanted to thank all of you who helped me with the problem I had
> trying to hookup my turntable to my computer a few weeks ago (see
> original post below). The problem was solved by simply connecting a 'V'
> cable from the R/L Tape Rec outputs on the back of my stereo receiver
> (no pre-amp was needed after all) to the "sound in" jack on the back of
> my computer. No buzzing sound, No hassle, and only $10.00 spent at Radio
> Shack on a 'V' cable. Thanks again.

It's great to know that you solved the problem, even though the buzz has
not been satisfactorily explained. m.


>
> > My goal is to be able to record from my turntable to my computer so that
> > I can burn to CD. Right now, I have just installed and connected the
> > M-Audio Audiophile USB 2496 to my stereo receiver's tape rec outputs and
> > no sound is coming out, nor is it working with my software (CD Spin
> > Doctor). before that I was using a phono preamp, which seemed to work,
> > but was giving me a buzz. I'm not sure what I should have the sound
> > control panel set at, but I've tried everything from "sound in" and "RCA
> > in" to Audiophile USB. Still nothing.
> >
> > Anyhow, with the money i am spending and difficulties I am having trying
> > to get this all to work I am growing increasingly frustrated. So, if
> > anyone can give me some simple steps to get my $150.00 Audiophile 2496
> > to work with my turntable and software on my Mac computer I would
> > greatly appreciate it. I am having so much trouble with this.


--
matt neuburg, phd = , http://www.tidbits.com/matt/
AppleScript: The Definitive Guide
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0596005571/somethingsbymatt
Read TidBITS! It's free and smart. http://www.tidbits.com

[Richard Crowley]

"Jimbo" wrote ...
> I just wanted to thank all of you who helped me with the problem I had
> trying to hookup my turntable to my computer a few weeks ago (see
> original post below). The problem was solved by simply connecting a 'V'
> cable from the R/L Tape Rec outputs on the back of my stereo receiver
> (no pre-amp was needed after all) to the "sound in" jack on the back of
> my computer. No buzzing sound, No hassle, and only $10.00 spent at Radio
> Shack on a 'V' cable. Thanks again.

Perhaps you mean "no extra pre-amp was needed" or "no external pre-amp
was needed". Your configuration is using the RIAA pre-amp in your
receiver. Congrats on a successfull solution.

[Richard Crowley]

"Jimbo" wrote ...
> I just wanted to thank all of you who helped me with the problem I had
> trying to hookup my turntable to my computer a few weeks ago (see
> original post below). The problem was solved by simply connecting a 'V'
> cable from the R/L Tape Rec outputs on the back of my stereo receiver
> (no pre-amp was needed after all) to the "sound in" jack on the back of
> my computer. No buzzing sound, No hassle, and only $10.00 spent at Radio
> Shack on a 'V' cable. Thanks again.

Perhaps you mean "no extra pre-amp was needed" or "no external pre-amp
was needed". Your configuration is using the RIAA pre-amp in your
receiver. Congrats on a successfull solution.

[David C. Stone]

In article >, matt neuburg
> wrote:

[snip]
> It's great to know that you solved the problem, even though the buzz has
> not been satisfactorily explained. m.

Given the description below and personal experience, I'd suspect either
a ground loop or inadequate screening of the phono preamp picking up the
monitor (assuming a CRT of some kind). If I had to choose, I'd probably
go for the ground loop.

> > > My goal is to be able to record from my turntable to my computer so that
> > > I can burn to CD. Right now, I have just installed and connected the
> > > M-Audio Audiophile USB 2496 to my stereo receiver's tape rec outputs and
> > > no sound is coming out, nor is it working with my software (CD Spin
> > > Doctor). before that I was using a phono preamp, which seemed to work,
> > > but was giving me a buzz. I'm not sure what I should have the sound
> > > control panel set at, but I've tried everything from "sound in" and "RCA
> > > in" to Audiophile USB. Still nothing.

[David C. Stone]

In article >, matt neuburg
> wrote:

[snip]
> It's great to know that you solved the problem, even though the buzz has
> not been satisfactorily explained. m.

Given the description below and personal experience, I'd suspect either
a ground loop or inadequate screening of the phono preamp picking up the
monitor (assuming a CRT of some kind). If I had to choose, I'd probably
go for the ground loop.

> > > My goal is to be able to record from my turntable to my computer so that
> > > I can burn to CD. Right now, I have just installed and connected the
> > > M-Audio Audiophile USB 2496 to my stereo receiver's tape rec outputs and
> > > no sound is coming out, nor is it working with my software (CD Spin
> > > Doctor). before that I was using a phono preamp, which seemed to work,
> > > but was giving me a buzz. I'm not sure what I should have the sound
> > > control panel set at, but I've tried everything from "sound in" and "RCA
> > > in" to Audiophile USB. Still nothing.

[Adrian W]

Jimbo > wrote:

> I just wanted to thank all of you who helped me with the problem I had
> trying to hookup my turntable to my computer a few weeks ago (see
> original post below). The problem was solved by simply connecting a 'V'
> cable from the R/L Tape Rec outputs on the back of my stereo receiver
> (no pre-amp was needed after all) to the "sound in" jack on the back of
> my computer. No buzzing sound, No hassle, and only $10.00 spent at Radio
> Shack on a 'V' cable. Thanks again.

A pre-amp was certainly needed ... you are using the built-in pre-amp in
your receiver to convert the turntable cartridge output to provide
appropriate equalization and to lift the signal to the line level
required for your Mac ... just thought you might want to know this!

--
Adrian

[Adrian W]

Jimbo > wrote:

> I just wanted to thank all of you who helped me with the problem I had
> trying to hookup my turntable to my computer a few weeks ago (see
> original post below). The problem was solved by simply connecting a 'V'
> cable from the R/L Tape Rec outputs on the back of my stereo receiver
> (no pre-amp was needed after all) to the "sound in" jack on the back of
> my computer. No buzzing sound, No hassle, and only $10.00 spent at Radio
> Shack on a 'V' cable. Thanks again.

A pre-amp was certainly needed ... you are using the built-in pre-amp in
your receiver to convert the turntable cartridge output to provide
appropriate equalization and to lift the signal to the line level
required for your Mac ... just thought you might want to know this!

--
Adrian

[G.T.]

Adrian W wrote:
> Jimbo > wrote:
>
>
>>I just wanted to thank all of you who helped me with the problem I had
>>trying to hookup my turntable to my computer a few weeks ago (see
>>original post below). The problem was solved by simply connecting a 'V'
>>cable from the R/L Tape Rec outputs on the back of my stereo receiver
>>(no pre-amp was needed after all) to the "sound in" jack on the back of
>>my computer. No buzzing sound, No hassle, and only $10.00 spent at Radio
>>Shack on a 'V' cable. Thanks again.
>
>
> A pre-amp was certainly needed ... you are using the built-in pre-amp in
> your receiver to convert the turntable cartridge output to provide
> appropriate equalization and to lift the signal to the line level
> required for your Mac ... just thought you might want to know this!
>

I'm not using a pre-amp. The iMic's Final Vinyl app does the RIAA
equalization. I've found that something as simple as the iMic works great
for my lo-fidelity punk records but YMMV.

Greg

[G.T.]

Adrian W wrote:
> Jimbo > wrote:
>
>
>>I just wanted to thank all of you who helped me with the problem I had
>>trying to hookup my turntable to my computer a few weeks ago (see
>>original post below). The problem was solved by simply connecting a 'V'
>>cable from the R/L Tape Rec outputs on the back of my stereo receiver
>>(no pre-amp was needed after all) to the "sound in" jack on the back of
>>my computer. No buzzing sound, No hassle, and only $10.00 spent at Radio
>>Shack on a 'V' cable. Thanks again.
>
>
> A pre-amp was certainly needed ... you are using the built-in pre-amp in
> your receiver to convert the turntable cartridge output to provide
> appropriate equalization and to lift the signal to the line level
> required for your Mac ... just thought you might want to know this!
>

I'm not using a pre-amp. The iMic's Final Vinyl app does the RIAA
equalization. I've found that something as simple as the iMic works great
for my lo-fidelity punk records but YMMV.

Greg

[Dave Seaman]

On Thu, 03 Jun 2004 14:34:32 -0700, G.T. wrote:
> Adrian W wrote:
>> Jimbo > wrote:
>>
>>
>>>I just wanted to thank all of you who helped me with the problem I had
>>>trying to hookup my turntable to my computer a few weeks ago (see
>>>original post below). The problem was solved by simply connecting a 'V'
>>>cable from the R/L Tape Rec outputs on the back of my stereo receiver
>>>(no pre-amp was needed after all) to the "sound in" jack on the back of
>>>my computer. No buzzing sound, No hassle, and only $10.00 spent at Radio
>>>Shack on a 'V' cable. Thanks again.
>>
>>
>> A pre-amp was certainly needed ... you are using the built-in pre-amp in
>> your receiver to convert the turntable cartridge output to provide
>> appropriate equalization and to lift the signal to the line level
>> required for your Mac ... just thought you might want to know this!
>>

> I'm not using a pre-amp. The iMic's Final Vinyl app does the RIAA
> equalization. I've found that something as simple as the iMic works great
> for my lo-fidelity punk records but YMMV.

You said you were connecting the R/L Tape Rec outputs on the back of your
stereo receiver to the "sound in" jack on the back of your computer.

What comes from the R/L Tape Rec outputs on the back of your stereo
receiver depends on what source you have selected. If you selected
"phono" as your source, then you are using the receiver's built-in preamp
and RIAA equalization, even if you don't realize it. That is how
receivers work.

If you selected some other source instead of phono, then you are not
using the receiver's preamp section, but you also are not recording from
a turntable. At least, not if it has a magnetic cartridge.



--
Dave Seaman
Judge Yohn's mistakes revealed in Mumia Abu-Jamal ruling.
<http://www.commoncouragepress.com/index.cfm?action=book&bookid=228>

[Dave Seaman]

On Thu, 03 Jun 2004 14:34:32 -0700, G.T. wrote:
> Adrian W wrote:
>> Jimbo > wrote:
>>
>>
>>>I just wanted to thank all of you who helped me with the problem I had
>>>trying to hookup my turntable to my computer a few weeks ago (see
>>>original post below). The problem was solved by simply connecting a 'V'
>>>cable from the R/L Tape Rec outputs on the back of my stereo receiver
>>>(no pre-amp was needed after all) to the "sound in" jack on the back of
>>>my computer. No buzzing sound, No hassle, and only $10.00 spent at Radio
>>>Shack on a 'V' cable. Thanks again.
>>
>>
>> A pre-amp was certainly needed ... you are using the built-in pre-amp in
>> your receiver to convert the turntable cartridge output to provide
>> appropriate equalization and to lift the signal to the line level
>> required for your Mac ... just thought you might want to know this!
>>

> I'm not using a pre-amp. The iMic's Final Vinyl app does the RIAA
> equalization. I've found that something as simple as the iMic works great
> for my lo-fidelity punk records but YMMV.

You said you were connecting the R/L Tape Rec outputs on the back of your
stereo receiver to the "sound in" jack on the back of your computer.

What comes from the R/L Tape Rec outputs on the back of your stereo
receiver depends on what source you have selected. If you selected
"phono" as your source, then you are using the receiver's built-in preamp
and RIAA equalization, even if you don't realize it. That is how
receivers work.

If you selected some other source instead of phono, then you are not
using the receiver's preamp section, but you also are not recording from
a turntable. At least, not if it has a magnetic cartridge.



--
Dave Seaman
Judge Yohn's mistakes revealed in Mumia Abu-Jamal ruling.
<http://www.commoncouragepress.com/index.cfm?action=book&bookid=228>

[G.T.]

Dave Seaman wrote:
> On Thu, 03 Jun 2004 14:34:32 -0700, G.T. wrote:
>
>>Adrian W wrote:
>>
>>>Jimbo > wrote:
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>>I just wanted to thank all of you who helped me with the problem I had
>>>>trying to hookup my turntable to my computer a few weeks ago (see
>>>>original post below). The problem was solved by simply connecting a 'V'
>>>>cable from the R/L Tape Rec outputs on the back of my stereo receiver
>>>>(no pre-amp was needed after all) to the "sound in" jack on the back of
>>>>my computer. No buzzing sound, No hassle, and only $10.00 spent at Radio
>>>>Shack on a 'V' cable. Thanks again.
>>>
>>>
>>>A pre-amp was certainly needed ... you are using the built-in pre-amp in
>>>your receiver to convert the turntable cartridge output to provide
>>>appropriate equalization and to lift the signal to the line level
>>>required for your Mac ... just thought you might want to know this!
>>>
>
>
>>I'm not using a pre-amp. The iMic's Final Vinyl app does the RIAA
>>equalization. I've found that something as simple as the iMic works great
>>for my lo-fidelity punk records but YMMV.
>
>
> You said you were connecting the R/L Tape Rec outputs on the back of your
> stereo receiver to the "sound in" jack on the back of your computer.
>

Wrong person. I'm not using anything but an iMic and Final Vinyl.

Greg

[G.T.]

Dave Seaman wrote:
> On Thu, 03 Jun 2004 14:34:32 -0700, G.T. wrote:
>
>>Adrian W wrote:
>>
>>>Jimbo > wrote:
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>>I just wanted to thank all of you who helped me with the problem I had
>>>>trying to hookup my turntable to my computer a few weeks ago (see
>>>>original post below). The problem was solved by simply connecting a 'V'
>>>>cable from the R/L Tape Rec outputs on the back of my stereo receiver
>>>>(no pre-amp was needed after all) to the "sound in" jack on the back of
>>>>my computer. No buzzing sound, No hassle, and only $10.00 spent at Radio
>>>>Shack on a 'V' cable. Thanks again.
>>>
>>>
>>>A pre-amp was certainly needed ... you are using the built-in pre-amp in
>>>your receiver to convert the turntable cartridge output to provide
>>>appropriate equalization and to lift the signal to the line level
>>>required for your Mac ... just thought you might want to know this!
>>>
>
>
>>I'm not using a pre-amp. The iMic's Final Vinyl app does the RIAA
>>equalization. I've found that something as simple as the iMic works great
>>for my lo-fidelity punk records but YMMV.
>
>
> You said you were connecting the R/L Tape Rec outputs on the back of your
> stereo receiver to the "sound in" jack on the back of your computer.
>

Wrong person. I'm not using anything but an iMic and Final Vinyl.

Greg

[G.T.]

G.T. wrote:
> Dave Seaman wrote:
>
>> On Thu, 03 Jun 2004 14:34:32 -0700, G.T. wrote:
>>
>>> Adrian W wrote:
>>>
>>>> Jimbo > wrote:
>>>>
>>>>
>>>>
>>>>> I just wanted to thank all of you who helped me with the problem I had
>>>>> trying to hookup my turntable to my computer a few weeks ago (see
>>>>> original post below). The problem was solved by simply connecting a
>>>>> 'V'
>>>>> cable from the R/L Tape Rec outputs on the back of my stereo receiver
>>>>> (no pre-amp was needed after all) to the "sound in" jack on the
>>>>> back of
>>>>> my computer. No buzzing sound, No hassle, and only $10.00 spent at
>>>>> Radio
>>>>> Shack on a 'V' cable. Thanks again.
>>>>
>>>>
>>>>
>>>> A pre-amp was certainly needed ... you are using the built-in
>>>> pre-amp in
>>>> your receiver to convert the turntable cartridge output to provide
>>>> appropriate equalization and to lift the signal to the line level
>>>> required for your Mac ... just thought you might want to know this!
>>>>
>>
>>
>>> I'm not using a pre-amp. The iMic's Final Vinyl app does the RIAA
>>> equalization. I've found that something as simple as the iMic works
>>> great for my lo-fidelity punk records but YMMV.
>>
>>
>>
>> You said you were connecting the R/L Tape Rec outputs on the back of your
>> stereo receiver to the "sound in" jack on the back of your computer.
>>
>
> Wrong person. I'm not using anything but an iMic and Final Vinyl.
>

Oh yeah, I can post a photo of my setup along with an m4a or two for
samples of the results.



Greg

[G.T.]

G.T. wrote:
> Dave Seaman wrote:
>
>> On Thu, 03 Jun 2004 14:34:32 -0700, G.T. wrote:
>>
>>> Adrian W wrote:
>>>
>>>> Jimbo > wrote:
>>>>
>>>>
>>>>
>>>>> I just wanted to thank all of you who helped me with the problem I had
>>>>> trying to hookup my turntable to my computer a few weeks ago (see
>>>>> original post below). The problem was solved by simply connecting a
>>>>> 'V'
>>>>> cable from the R/L Tape Rec outputs on the back of my stereo receiver
>>>>> (no pre-amp was needed after all) to the "sound in" jack on the
>>>>> back of
>>>>> my computer. No buzzing sound, No hassle, and only $10.00 spent at
>>>>> Radio
>>>>> Shack on a 'V' cable. Thanks again.
>>>>
>>>>
>>>>
>>>> A pre-amp was certainly needed ... you are using the built-in
>>>> pre-amp in
>>>> your receiver to convert the turntable cartridge output to provide
>>>> appropriate equalization and to lift the signal to the line level
>>>> required for your Mac ... just thought you might want to know this!
>>>>
>>
>>
>>> I'm not using a pre-amp. The iMic's Final Vinyl app does the RIAA
>>> equalization. I've found that something as simple as the iMic works
>>> great for my lo-fidelity punk records but YMMV.
>>
>>
>>
>> You said you were connecting the R/L Tape Rec outputs on the back of your
>> stereo receiver to the "sound in" jack on the back of your computer.
>>
>
> Wrong person. I'm not using anything but an iMic and Final Vinyl.
>

Oh yeah, I can post a photo of my setup along with an m4a or two for
samples of the results.



Greg

[Adrian W]

G.T. > wrote:

> Wrong person. I'm not using anything but an iMic and Final Vinyl.

The iMic has a greater sensitivity than the Mac input on its own, so it
can handle low level signals such as from a microphone or phono
cartridge ... before sending a suitable input to the Mac (presumably in
digital form). In that sense it is acting as a preamp.

--
Adrian

[Adrian W]

G.T. > wrote:

> Wrong person. I'm not using anything but an iMic and Final Vinyl.

The iMic has a greater sensitivity than the Mac input on its own, so it
can handle low level signals such as from a microphone or phono
cartridge ... before sending a suitable input to the Mac (presumably in
digital form). In that sense it is acting as a preamp.

--
Adrian

[flint]

"Adrian W" > wrote in message
...
> G.T. > wrote:
>
> > Wrong person. I'm not using anything but an iMic and Final Vinyl.
>
> The iMic has a greater sensitivity than the Mac input on its own, so it
> can handle low level signals such as from a microphone or phono
> cartridge ... before sending a suitable input to the Mac (presumably in
> digital form). In that sense it is acting as a preamp.
>
> --
> Adrian

But does it have the required RIAA EQ? Without it the treble & bass will be
all messed up.

- FLINT

[flint]

"Adrian W" > wrote in message
...
> G.T. > wrote:
>
> > Wrong person. I'm not using anything but an iMic and Final Vinyl.
>
> The iMic has a greater sensitivity than the Mac input on its own, so it
> can handle low level signals such as from a microphone or phono
> cartridge ... before sending a suitable input to the Mac (presumably in
> digital form). In that sense it is acting as a preamp.
>
> --
> Adrian

But does it have the required RIAA EQ? Without it the treble & bass will be
all messed up.

- FLINT

[noman]

["Followup-To:" header set to comp.sys.mac.apps.]
On 2004-06-04, flint > wrote:
>
> "Adrian W" > wrote in message
> ...
>> G.T. > wrote:
>>
>> > Wrong person. I'm not using anything but an iMic and Final Vinyl.
>>
>> The iMic has a greater sensitivity than the Mac input on its own, so it
>> can handle low level signals such as from a microphone or phono
>> cartridge ... In that sense it is acting as a preamp.
>
> But does it have the required RIAA EQ?


Final Vinyl does this part, in software.

Together the iMic and Final Vinyl do the job that a (very cheap) phono
stage would do.

[noman]

["Followup-To:" header set to comp.sys.mac.apps.]
On 2004-06-04, flint > wrote:
>
> "Adrian W" > wrote in message
> ...
>> G.T. > wrote:
>>
>> > Wrong person. I'm not using anything but an iMic and Final Vinyl.
>>
>> The iMic has a greater sensitivity than the Mac input on its own, so it
>> can handle low level signals such as from a microphone or phono
>> cartridge ... In that sense it is acting as a preamp.
>
> But does it have the required RIAA EQ?


Final Vinyl does this part, in software.

Together the iMic and Final Vinyl do the job that a (very cheap) phono
stage would do.

[Adrian W]

flint > wrote:

> "Adrian W" > wrote in message
> ...
> > G.T. > wrote:
> >
> > > Wrong person. I'm not using anything but an iMic and Final Vinyl.
> >
> > The iMic has a greater sensitivity than the Mac input on its own, so it
> > can handle low level signals such as from a microphone or phono
> > cartridge ... before sending a suitable input to the Mac (presumably in
> > digital form). In that sense it is acting as a preamp.
> >
> > --
> > Adrian
>
> But does it have the required RIAA EQ? Without it the treble & bass will be
> all messed up.
>
> - FLINT

The OP said that the iMic's Final Vinyl app does the RIAA equalization
(within the Mac).

--
Adrian

[Adrian W]

flint > wrote:

> "Adrian W" > wrote in message
> ...
> > G.T. > wrote:
> >
> > > Wrong person. I'm not using anything but an iMic and Final Vinyl.
> >
> > The iMic has a greater sensitivity than the Mac input on its own, so it
> > can handle low level signals such as from a microphone or phono
> > cartridge ... before sending a suitable input to the Mac (presumably in
> > digital form). In that sense it is acting as a preamp.
> >
> > --
> > Adrian
>
> But does it have the required RIAA EQ? Without it the treble & bass will be
> all messed up.
>
> - FLINT

The OP said that the iMic's Final Vinyl app does the RIAA equalization
(within the Mac).

--
Adrian

[Arny Krueger]

G.T. wrote:
> Adrian W wrote:
>> Jimbo > wrote:
>>
>>
>>> I just wanted to thank all of you who helped me with the problem I
>>> had trying to hookup my turntable to my computer a few weeks ago
>>> (see original post below). The problem was solved by simply
>>> connecting a 'V' cable from the R/L Tape Rec outputs on the back of
>>> my stereo receiver (no pre-amp was needed after all) to the "sound
>>> in" jack on the back of my computer. No buzzing sound, No hassle,
>>> and only $10.00 spent at Radio Shack on a 'V' cable. Thanks again.
>>
>>
>> A pre-amp was certainly needed ... you are using the built-in
>> pre-amp in your receiver to convert the turntable cartridge output
>> to provide appropriate equalization and to lift the signal to the
>> line level required for your Mac ... just thought you might want to
>> know this!
>>
>
> I'm not using a pre-amp. The iMic's Final Vinyl app does the RIAA
> equalization. I've found that something as simple as the iMic works
> great for my lo-fidelity punk records but YMMV.

I've been telling folks that the iMic input does bad things to sound, but
never have I thought of the possiblity that it would function as a RIAA
equalizer.

The active ingredient in the IMic *equalizer* is a low-voltage op amp chip
being run with so much gain that it rolls off above some modestly high
frequency in the audio range. It's also pretty noisy. The doubly-bad news
is that the line input is obtained with an input attenuator. So, the line
input has the same noise and poor frequency response, but less sensitivity.

[Arny Krueger]

G.T. wrote:
> Adrian W wrote:
>> Jimbo > wrote:
>>
>>
>>> I just wanted to thank all of you who helped me with the problem I
>>> had trying to hookup my turntable to my computer a few weeks ago
>>> (see original post below). The problem was solved by simply
>>> connecting a 'V' cable from the R/L Tape Rec outputs on the back of
>>> my stereo receiver (no pre-amp was needed after all) to the "sound
>>> in" jack on the back of my computer. No buzzing sound, No hassle,
>>> and only $10.00 spent at Radio Shack on a 'V' cable. Thanks again.
>>
>>
>> A pre-amp was certainly needed ... you are using the built-in
>> pre-amp in your receiver to convert the turntable cartridge output
>> to provide appropriate equalization and to lift the signal to the
>> line level required for your Mac ... just thought you might want to
>> know this!
>>
>
> I'm not using a pre-amp. The iMic's Final Vinyl app does the RIAA
> equalization. I've found that something as simple as the iMic works
> great for my lo-fidelity punk records but YMMV.

I've been telling folks that the iMic input does bad things to sound, but
never have I thought of the possiblity that it would function as a RIAA
equalizer.

The active ingredient in the IMic *equalizer* is a low-voltage op amp chip
being run with so much gain that it rolls off above some modestly high
frequency in the audio range. It's also pretty noisy. The doubly-bad news
is that the line input is obtained with an input attenuator. So, the line
input has the same noise and poor frequency response, but less sensitivity.

[G.T.]

"Arny Krueger" > wrote in message
...
> G.T. wrote:
> >
> >
> > I'm not using a pre-amp. The iMic's Final Vinyl app does the RIAA
> > equalization. I've found that something as simple as the iMic works
> > great for my lo-fidelity punk records but YMMV.
>
> I've been telling folks that the iMic input does bad things to sound, but
> never have I thought of the possiblity that it would function as a RIAA
> equalizer.
>
> The active ingredient in the IMic *equalizer* is a low-voltage op amp chip
> being run with so much gain that it rolls off above some modestly high
> frequency in the audio range. It's also pretty noisy. The doubly-bad news
> is that the line input is obtained with an input attenuator. So, the line
> input has the same noise and poor frequency response, but less
sensitivity.
>

When I move on from my punk records I'll try something with better fidelity
but until then the iMic is working fine.

Greg

[G.T.]

"Arny Krueger" > wrote in message
...
> G.T. wrote:
> >
> >
> > I'm not using a pre-amp. The iMic's Final Vinyl app does the RIAA
> > equalization. I've found that something as simple as the iMic works
> > great for my lo-fidelity punk records but YMMV.
>
> I've been telling folks that the iMic input does bad things to sound, but
> never have I thought of the possiblity that it would function as a RIAA
> equalizer.
>
> The active ingredient in the IMic *equalizer* is a low-voltage op amp chip
> being run with so much gain that it rolls off above some modestly high
> frequency in the audio range. It's also pretty noisy. The doubly-bad news
> is that the line input is obtained with an input attenuator. So, the line
> input has the same noise and poor frequency response, but less
sensitivity.
>

When I move on from my punk records I'll try something with better fidelity
but until then the iMic is working fine.

Greg

[noman]

["Followup-To:" header set to comp.sys.mac.apps.]
On 2004-06-05, G.T. > wrote:
> When I move on from my punk records I'll try something with better fidelity

This doesn't make any sense. Punk music might be raw, or at least
some of its fans might like to think so, but unless you're dubbing
bootleg lps, the records are likely to have perfectly good, and in
some cases, excellent fidelity. For sure, plenty of punk lps from the
1976-78 era and thrash/hardcore records from the early 80s sound
great, sonically speaking.

If you're losing fidelity in the digitization, this is just as bad for
punk records as it would be for string quartet records. Why would the
genre make any difference? Either you care about the music or you
don't.


I'm disturbed to hear about all these issues with the iMic input
though, since it seems like such a nice product for the price. Is it
better to use the analog line-in jack on a PowerBook than to use an
iMic? How about the iMic as an output device -- does it also have
design problems?

[noman]

["Followup-To:" header set to comp.sys.mac.apps.]
On 2004-06-05, G.T. > wrote:
> When I move on from my punk records I'll try something with better fidelity

This doesn't make any sense. Punk music might be raw, or at least
some of its fans might like to think so, but unless you're dubbing
bootleg lps, the records are likely to have perfectly good, and in
some cases, excellent fidelity. For sure, plenty of punk lps from the
1976-78 era and thrash/hardcore records from the early 80s sound
great, sonically speaking.

If you're losing fidelity in the digitization, this is just as bad for
punk records as it would be for string quartet records. Why would the
genre make any difference? Either you care about the music or you
don't.


I'm disturbed to hear about all these issues with the iMic input
though, since it seems like such a nice product for the price. Is it
better to use the analog line-in jack on a PowerBook than to use an
iMic? How about the iMic as an output device -- does it also have
design problems?

[Paul Stamler]

I looked at the specs for the iMic, and as far as audio is concerned, there
are none. It's one of the least useful spec sheets ever written.

However, I'll make a bet, which is that the input impedance is less than the
47k needed to load a magnetic phono cartridge. Which means the cartridge's
response is skewed to hell and gone, unless the user's using a moving coil,
and I'd bet against that, too.

Go to a swap meet or look in the paper, and buy an old stereo receiver that
has phono inputs. Take the output from the "Tape Out" jacks into the line
inputs of your computer. You'll get much, much, much better results.

Peace,
Paul

[Paul Stamler]

I looked at the specs for the iMic, and as far as audio is concerned, there
are none. It's one of the least useful spec sheets ever written.

However, I'll make a bet, which is that the input impedance is less than the
47k needed to load a magnetic phono cartridge. Which means the cartridge's
response is skewed to hell and gone, unless the user's using a moving coil,
and I'd bet against that, too.

Go to a swap meet or look in the paper, and buy an old stereo receiver that
has phono inputs. Take the output from the "Tape Out" jacks into the line
inputs of your computer. You'll get much, much, much better results.

Peace,
Paul

[S O'Neill]

Paul Stamler wrote:
> I looked at the specs for the iMic, and as far as audio is concerned, there
> are none. It's one of the least useful spec sheets ever written.

Their response to my query on this was "It's $40". They do work great
for what they are, though.

[S O'Neill]

Paul Stamler wrote:
> I looked at the specs for the iMic, and as far as audio is concerned, there
> are none. It's one of the least useful spec sheets ever written.

Their response to my query on this was "It's $40". They do work great
for what they are, though.

[StrikitRich]

>
>> My goal is to be able to record from my turntable to my computer so that
>> I can burn to CD. Right now, I have just installed and connected the
>> M-Audio Audiophile USB 2496 to my stereo receiver's tape rec outputs and
>> no sound is coming out, nor is it working with my software (CD Spin
>> Doctor). before that I was using a phono preamp, which seemed to work,
>> but was giving me a buzz. I'm not sure what I should have the sound
>> control panel set at, but I've tried everything from "sound in" and "RCA
>> in" to Audiophile USB. Still nothing.
>>
>> Anyhow, with the money i am spending and difficulties I am having trying
>> to get this all to work I am growing increasingly frustrated. So, if
>> anyone can give me some simple steps to get my $150.00 Audiophile 2496
>> to work with my turntable and software on my Mac computer I would
>> greatly appreciate it. I am having so much trouble with this.


Right now, I am trying to do something similar with a tape deck. When the
deck is playing, I cn see the input meter moving in the Sound Prefs, but
still get no sound out of my speakers. Is there something else that I nee
or need to do?

Thanks, SR1

[StrikitRich]

>
>> My goal is to be able to record from my turntable to my computer so that
>> I can burn to CD. Right now, I have just installed and connected the
>> M-Audio Audiophile USB 2496 to my stereo receiver's tape rec outputs and
>> no sound is coming out, nor is it working with my software (CD Spin
>> Doctor). before that I was using a phono preamp, which seemed to work,
>> but was giving me a buzz. I'm not sure what I should have the sound
>> control panel set at, but I've tried everything from "sound in" and "RCA
>> in" to Audiophile USB. Still nothing.
>>
>> Anyhow, with the money i am spending and difficulties I am having trying
>> to get this all to work I am growing increasingly frustrated. So, if
>> anyone can give me some simple steps to get my $150.00 Audiophile 2496
>> to work with my turntable and software on my Mac computer I would
>> greatly appreciate it. I am having so much trouble with this.


Right now, I am trying to do something similar with a tape deck. When the
deck is playing, I cn see the input meter moving in the Sound Prefs, but
still get no sound out of my speakers. Is there something else that I nee
or need to do?

Thanks, SR1

[matt neuburg]

StrikitRich > wrote:

> Right now, I am trying to do something similar with a tape deck. When the
> deck is playing, I cn see the input meter moving in the Sound Prefs, but
> still get no sound out of my speakers. Is there something else that I nee
> or need to do?

Are you saying you get no sound out of the *computer's* speakers? That
would be because Mac OS X doesn't support "playthru" (which is what
you're trying to do). If you need to monitor what's coming through the
tape deck, then you need to pick it up at some other point - headphones
in the tape deck, for example, or with speakers attached to the amp thru
which the sound may pass on the way to the computer.

Alternatively, you can use a program like RogueAmeoba's LineIn to enable
playthru. m.

--
matt neuburg, phd = , http://www.tidbits.com/matt/
AppleScript: The Definitive Guide
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0596005571/somethingsbymatt
Read TidBITS! It's free and smart. http://www.tidbits.com

[matt neuburg]

StrikitRich > wrote:

> Right now, I am trying to do something similar with a tape deck. When the
> deck is playing, I cn see the input meter moving in the Sound Prefs, but
> still get no sound out of my speakers. Is there something else that I nee
> or need to do?

Are you saying you get no sound out of the *computer's* speakers? That
would be because Mac OS X doesn't support "playthru" (which is what
you're trying to do). If you need to monitor what's coming through the
tape deck, then you need to pick it up at some other point - headphones
in the tape deck, for example, or with speakers attached to the amp thru
which the sound may pass on the way to the computer.

Alternatively, you can use a program like RogueAmeoba's LineIn to enable
playthru. m.

--
matt neuburg, phd = , http://www.tidbits.com/matt/
AppleScript: The Definitive Guide
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0596005571/somethingsbymatt
Read TidBITS! It's free and smart. http://www.tidbits.com

[Mark Edwards]

In article >, matt neuburg
> wrote:

> StrikitRich > wrote:
>
> > Right now, I am trying to do something similar with a tape deck. When the
> > deck is playing, I cn see the input meter moving in the Sound Prefs, but
> > still get no sound out of my speakers. Is there something else that I nee
> > or need to do?
>
> Are you saying you get no sound out of the *computer's* speakers? That
> would be because Mac OS X doesn't support "playthru" (which is what
> you're trying to do). If you need to monitor what's coming through the
> tape deck, then you need to pick it up at some other point - headphones
> in the tape deck, for example, or with speakers attached to the amp thru
> which the sound may pass on the way to the computer.
>
> Alternatively, you can use a program like RogueAmeoba's LineIn to enable
> playthru. m.


Or Audiox available on Versiontracker.

[Mark Edwards]

In article >, matt neuburg
> wrote:

> StrikitRich > wrote:
>
> > Right now, I am trying to do something similar with a tape deck. When the
> > deck is playing, I cn see the input meter moving in the Sound Prefs, but
> > still get no sound out of my speakers. Is there something else that I nee
> > or need to do?
>
> Are you saying you get no sound out of the *computer's* speakers? That
> would be because Mac OS X doesn't support "playthru" (which is what
> you're trying to do). If you need to monitor what's coming through the
> tape deck, then you need to pick it up at some other point - headphones
> in the tape deck, for example, or with speakers attached to the amp thru
> which the sound may pass on the way to the computer.
>
> Alternatively, you can use a program like RogueAmeoba's LineIn to enable
> playthru. m.


Or Audiox available on Versiontracker.