Ask MetaFilter questions tagged with stereo and vinyl

Converting vinyl records to digital files using an existing turntable...

You Should See the Other Guy — Wed, 02 Sep 2009 14:14:35 -0800

I like my vinyl records. I want to make digital files out of them. What are my options ... which don't include a new turntable and, preferably but not absolutely, don't require my computer and stereo to be in the same room? I'm on a Mac.

Recommend a budget phono preamp

The Michael The — Wed, 31 Dec 2008 09:14:53 -0800

Which budget phono preamp (less than $50) should I buy? I've got a Technics SL1650 that I'll be connecting to a Yamaha RX-V540, neither of which has an integrated phono preamp. I'd like to pay as little as possible for that separate preamp, certainly under $50. I understand that I'll be sacrificing sound quality vs. a higher-low-end $100-$200 model, but frankly I just want to play my records. So, let's have your recommendations for something that's less than $50 but doesn't sound like complete crap.

Playing records and listening to my iMac through one system

Foam Pants — Sun, 14 Dec 2008 01:32:39 -0800

I would like to set up a system where my turntable and my iMac all flow out of a nice set of speakers. I have no idea where to start. This is the junk I have:
1. iMac
2. Pioneer belt-driven turntable with audio out hardwired and no amplifier
3. a super crappy stereo with half of the speakers missing. Funny story, I had to toss one because a mouse made a nest in it. I want to make this ugly, usable-space-sucker go away.
4. Basic Airport
5. Record collection that I like to play AS RECORDS
6. a sizable MP3 collection that I play through iTunes

Stuff I am willing to purchase
1. New turntable, even though my current one sports a kick-ass sticker collection
2. amplifier
3. Another Airport
4. Sweet speakers
5. Something else a dunder head like me doesn't realize she needs.
6. The services of a male escort.

While I love my music, I am an idiot who doesn't know jack about setting up an audio system. Please advise me, you can be condescending if it helps it come out.

Looking for a Nice, Relatively Inexpensive Turntable+PreAmp

robdon — Sun, 05 Oct 2008 12:12:21 -0800

VinylFilter: Looking for a quality Turntable and PreAmp to fill the needs of a poor audiophile ($500-650 Budget) I've been easing into the world of audiophilia for quite a while now; I've spent my time combing through countless issues of Stereophile, practically live on the Head-Fi forums, and have replaced all of my digital music library with tasty, tasty FLAC. However, after living next to someone with a turntable, and hearing the warm, buttery sound emanating from his turntable rig, I want one. I plan on listening mostly through a pair of DT770 Pro Headphones [80 Ω] (and to a lesser extent a pair of Grados) but will likely purchase a proper Power Amplifier and set of monitors at some point in the future. Just looking for something that will last me awhile and make the vinyl I've had my eye on sound fantastic through my cans.

I've heard fantastic things about the Rega P3, but I feel it might be a touch pricey when you factor in a preamp...

500-650$ Total Budget

All I wanna do is listen to Cheap Trick ive at Budokan

travosaurus — Sat, 12 Jan 2008 10:01:21 -0800

Does anyone else have problems with their cat attacking the record or the turntable every time they try and play vinyl? She likes that it spins. If so, any way to combat this? I prefer not having to lock my dear little in a separate when I want to listen to vinyl. Yes, I have tried moving the turntable... but she finds it.