Hi all
I have a Scarlett 18i8 audio interface that I use in a small home studio. I run a pair of Yamaha monitors out of it that sound great for the price.
I just bought a new turntable (the first time I've spent over $100 on one) and I realized I don't have the proper preamps and amp. Rather than buying a new audio system, is there any way I can get by on an outboard phono preamp and RCA to XLR adapters and just use my interface? There's a single spdf in on the back, but I'd rather have the option for stereo.
Thanks
I have a Scarlett 18i8 audio interface that I use in a small home studio. I run a pair of Yamaha monitors out of it that sound great for the price.
I just bought a new turntable (the first time I've spent over $100 on one) and I realized I don't have the proper preamps and amp. Rather than buying a new audio system, is there any way I can get by on an outboard phono preamp and RCA to XLR adapters and just use my interface? There's a single spdf in on the back, but I'd rather have the option for stereo.
Thanks
Used to be a phono preamp was part of every stereo amp or receiver, but not any more.
But they still make phono preamps. They are a small stand alone accessory that amplifies the phono cartridge output of the table up to line level. You then connect that to any line input of your amplifier. Aux/tuner/tape/etc.
Just google "phono preamp" and see many options. They start at about $20 and go up to the sky from there.
But they still make phono preamps. They are a small stand alone accessory that amplifies the phono cartridge output of the table up to line level. You then connect that to any line input of your amplifier. Aux/tuner/tape/etc.
Just google "phono preamp" and see many options. They start at about $20 and go up to the sky from there.
Right. But I want to run the phono preamp through my audio interface so I can use my studio monitors for playback. How do I do that without RCA inputs on the interface?
The speakers are powered. Could I get individual 1/4" to RCA adapters and plug the monitors directly into the phono preamp? Or would I better off using XLR to RCA adapters and running the phono preamp into the mic ins on my interface?
The speakers are powered. Could I get individual 1/4" to RCA adapters and plug the monitors directly into the phono preamp? Or would I better off using XLR to RCA adapters and running the phono preamp into the mic ins on my interface?
You also need equalization. Likewise, the interface's input impedance will not be optimal for most cartridges, so a simple impedance transformation circuit needs to be built.
The definitive treatment is Scott Wurcer's excellent article in the latest issue of Linear Audio (volume 10).
The definitive treatment is Scott Wurcer's excellent article in the latest issue of Linear Audio (volume 10).
The Scarlett pre-amps are excellent for this. A simple JFET source follower might be needed depending on cart loading desired and you could do the equalization in software if desired. I tried the Scarlett pre-amps with no additional gain and the results were fine (5mV MM).
For a quick experiment Audacity has a linear phase FIR RIAA built in or if you want to compare that with the correct minimum phase run these two IIR filters (96k sampling) in sequence via the Effects -> Nyquist prompt menu (s below is the selected audio). The IIR goes to DC so remove any offset first.
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Use RCA to 1/4" cables, or adapters. Go in the line inputs of the Scarlet. Just treat the phono preamp like any other line source. I've done that with several M-Audio cards and it works just fine.
There was (seldom) a selector for mic/phono, with the phono "just" using the RIAA equalization ,but same gain stage shared.
But...this works after the 1st gain stage...
otherwise>https://www.cambridgeaudio.com/products/hifi-and-home-cinema/azur-551p
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