How to Connect an LP Turntable to My Computer

A turntable can be conected to a computer

Turntables are typically connected to a stereo or A/V receiver when you're playing a record or an LP. If you want to record music from the turntable, it will need to be connected to your computer. This is done by using the audio input that is on the computer's sound card or onboard audio. You can connect an LP turntable to your computer by first making sure that you have the proper audio cables.

Things You'll Need

• Ground wire
• Stereo RCA to mini-jack cable
• RCA audio and video cables
• Turntable
• A/V receiver

Instructions

1. Connect one end of the ground wire to the back of the turntable. Connect the other end of the ground wire to the A/V receiver.

2. Connect one end of the RCA audio and video cables to the audio outputs on the turntable. Connect the other end of the RCA audio and video cables to the "Phono" inputs on the receiver.

3. Connect the RCA end of the Stereo RCA to mini-jack cable to the "Tape" or "Rec Out" outputs on the A/V receiver. Connect the mini-jack end of the cable to the line-in on the computer's sound card or onboard audio.

4. Turn on the computer and wait for the operating system to load. Turn on the power to the turntable.

5. Turn on the power to the A/V receiver. Use the remote for the A/V receiver to change the input mode to "Phono."

6. Place an LP or a record on the turntable. Set the stylus on the LP or record and see if the sound can be heard from the speakers connected to your computer.

Tips & Warnings

• The ground cable will reduce the amount of humming that is heard when you're using the turntable with the computer.

• If there is no "Phono" option on the A/V receiver, use another available RCA input.

• If the RCA cables are reversed on any of the devices, the sound will not be heard correctly.

References

• Microsoft: Record Music from a Vinyl Record to Your Computer