TURNTABLE LAB

Alesis
PhonoLink USB Audio Interface

easy, affordable way to record to computer

LAB POINTS
- connect any turntable, cd player, tape deck or line level source to computer via USB
- quality 16-bit/44.1kHz digital recording
- plug and play
- Mac and PC compatible


MANUFACTURER'S REVIEW
PhonoLink makes it easy to direct-connect nearly any turntable, tape deck, mixer, or other stereo, line-level audio source to USB for stereo recording.

The AudioLink Series USB-audio cable outputs studio quality stereo, 16-bit, 44.1 kHz digital audio thanks to its internal analog-to-digital conversion system. PhonoLink connects plug-and-play to your Mac or PC for an all-in-one USB audio solution.


MORE DETAILS
For more details, please visit the manufacturer's website.
reviewed by the mgmnt

file under:
all - digital djing / vinyl to digital transfers - digital djing / dj accessories / most requested - cables / and more

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Audio-Technica
AT-LP120-USB Turntable w/ Built-In Pre-Amp

direct drive deck with USB connectivity

OVERVIEW
Updated USB version of Audio-Technica's direct-drive turntable. With Technics prices at an all-time high, the Audio-Technica AT-LP120 USBs offers a secondary, more inexpensive option with features the 1200 does not have. Firstly, you will notice that the AT-LP120s looks very similar to the 1200. Audio-Technica has basically "borrowed" the 1200's popular layout and design. The major difference is that the AT-PL120s' body is mostly constructed of plastic (vs. the metal of the 1200); however the key parts remain metal (platter and tonearm). In addition, the AT-LP120 USBs retain some of the 1200s most popular features including a high-torque direct drive motor and 3-way adjustable tonearm assembly. Additionally, the AT-PL120 features direct USB connection for digitizing vinyl (software included), built-in pre-amp, -/+ 20% pitch adjustment, 33/45/78 options, and reverse play button; and includes a cartridge, slipmats, and dust cover.


FEATURES
USB Connectivity: Connect the ATLP120 USBs directly to your Mac or PC (no interface required) and easily digitize your vinyl with included Audacity software. Plug & play, no driver installations required.

Direct Drive Motor: The ATLP120 USBs features a high torque direct drive motor that is suitable for DJing. The motor also features quick start-up, a reverse button, and options for 33/45/78 rpm.

Built-In Preamp: The ATLP120 USBs features a switchable built-in pre-amp which allows you to directly connect either into an AUX input (found on most stereos or computers) or a phono mixer. The switch is located underneath the platter.

Pitch Control: The Pitch Control of the ATLP120 USBs is selectable between -/+20% and the standard -/+10%.

Tonearm + Cartridge: The S-shape tonearm features 3 adjustable controls including anti-skate control, tonearm height, and tonearm weight. The ATLP120 USBs includes a Audio-Technica ATP-2 cartridge and headshell.



OUR OPINION
The ATLP120 USB is one of the more professional USB turntables we carry; definitely a viable alternative to 1200s with some excellent features for recording and listening (not found on the 1200). Having the pre-amp and cartridge included also made setup much easier and the added USB connectivity makes digitizing vinyl a snap.
reviewed by the mgmnt

file under:
vinyl to digital transfers - digital djing / vinyl to digital / audio-technica - turntables / and more

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Audio-Technica
AT-LP60-USB Automatic Turntable (w/ Built-In Pre-Amp)

basic turntable w/ USB recording capability and pre-amp

Audio-Technica brings its legendary quality and audio fidelity to the digital realm with this LP-to-digital recording system. The AT-LP60-USB stereo turntable comes equipped with a USB output that allows direct connection to your computer. The system also offers: Mac and PC compatible Audacity software; an integral dual-magnet Audio-Technica phono cartridge; and a USB cable and adapter cables. The turntable also features a built-in switchable phono/line preamp that allows connection to a stereo system equipped with either a phono or line-level input. The turntable also features a built-in switchable phono preamp making it perfect for listening to your 33 1/3 or 45 RPM records on your home stereo, computer or any other component that has no dedicated turntable input. Includes an integral Audio-Technica Dual Magnet phono cartridge with replaceable stylus, dust cover, 45 adapter, and all necessary cables. Recommended for anyone looking for a basic, no-frills turntable to record or listen to vinyl records.
reviewed by the mgmnt

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vinyl to digital transfers - digital djing / vinyl to digital / audio-technica - turntables / and more

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Crosley
Crosley Revolution: Portable USB Turntable - Black (CR6002A-BK)

super compact portable USB turntable w/ FM radio

LAB POINTS
- unique slim portable design (similar to the sought-after "Sound Burger")
- plays 7"s & 12"s at 33 or 45rpm
- USB connectivity for easy analog-to-digital
- built-in FM transmitter
- built-in speaker
- battery powered

MANUFACTURER'S REVIEW
We took the record player "out of the box". Crosley's Revolutionâ„¢ turntable truly fits the word in every way. Where other turntables take up space, this one dances around a desk without ado. Where other record players must be kept in their designated place, the Crosley Revolutionâ„¢ practically begs to join you on every journey. And where other turntables tangle you in a web of wires, the Crosley Revolutionâ„¢ effortlessly pairs with any FM radio for cordless, clear sound. It is a turntable of firsts-the first battery-powered Crosley turntable, the first with a platter smaller than a teacup saucer, and the first with a wireless transmitter for cord-free enjoyment. Users can tote this two-speed turntable with them to vinyl swaps or to a friend's house. Featuring a USB hookup for easy analog-to-digital transfer, the Crosley Revolutionâ„¢ will allow users to free their favorites from the grooves for digital enjoyment across a variety of devices. This small but mighty turntable also features a headphone jack, passive audio out, and a dynamic full range speaker.


MORE DETAILS
For more details please visit the manufacturer's website.



reviewed by the mgmnt

file under:
vinyl to digital transfers - digital djing / vinyl to digital / turntables / and more

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Crosley
Keepsake USB Turntable - Black (CR249-BK)

USB turntable with built in speakers and editing software

LAB POINTS
- USB turntable
- built in stereo speakers
- 3 speeds (33/45/78)
- includes software for recording and editing audio to CD


MANUFACTURER'S REVIEW
Can't bear to live without your vinyl albums, yet can't seem to find the time to fire up the record player these days? The Crosley Keepsake USB Turntable may be the perfect solution. You can now take your old vinyl and convert them to CD in minutes with just a few simple steps. The Keepsake allows those old albums to be recorded in a digital audio format for high quality sound on a smaller, more modern compact disc. It easily interfaces with the USB port on any computer by utilizing the supplied software suite. However, if you still want to enjoy your albums old style, then Crosley's Keepsake offers a 3-speed turntable for your listening enjoyment. Preserve your entire music collection with the Keepsake.


MORE DETAILS
For more details, please visit the manufacturer's website.
reviewed by the mgmnt

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vinyl to digital transfers - digital djing / vinyl to digital / turntables / and more

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Crosley
Keepsake USB Turntable - Tan (CR249-TA)

USB turntable with built in speakers and editing software

LAB POINTS
- USB turntable
- built in stereo speakers
- 3 speeds (33/45/78)
- includes software for recording and editing audio to CD


MANUFACTURER'S REVIEW
Can't bear to live without your vinyl albums, yet can't seem to find the time to fire up the record player these days? The Crosley Keepsake USB Turntable may be the perfect solution. You can now take your old vinyl and convert them to CD in minutes with just a few simple steps. The Keepsake allows those old albums to be recorded in a digital audio format for high quality sound on a smaller, more modern compact disc. It easily interfaces with the USB port on any computer by utilizing the supplied software suite. However, if you still want to enjoy your albums old style, then Crosley's Keepsake offers a 3-speed turntable for your listening enjoyment. Preserve your entire music collection with the Keepsake.


MORE DETAILS
For more details, please visit the manufacturer's website.
reviewed by the mgmnt

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vinyl to digital transfers - digital djing / vinyl to digital / turntables / and more

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Crosley
Memory Master II CD Recorder / USB Turntable - Black (CR2413A-BK)

loaded USB turntable/cassette deck with built in CD recorder and speakers

LAB POINTS
- USB turntable w/ cassette deck and cd player
- includes software for ripping and editing audio
- built in CD recorder records vinyl and cassettes direct to CD
- built in stereo speakers
- plug in your portable audio player via aux in/out
- analog AM/FM tuner
- 3 speeds (33/45/78)
- remote control included
- works with Mac or PC


MANUFACTURER'S REVIEW
Finally, a way to record vinyl and cassette to CD without tangled wires, confusing hookups or extensive computer expertise. With Crosley's Memory Master II - the sleek, redesigned version of the popular Memory Master CD recorder -- simply put on your LP or pop in a cassette, load a blank CD and press "record." With its handsome cabinet, this system harkens back to the golden days while still nodding to technology of the 21st century. Users will appreciate its three speeds (33-1/3, 45 and 78 rpm) so they can play and record their entire collection. The Memory Master II is USB enabled for connection to PC and Mac and includes a software suite for ripping and editing audio content. This Crosley also allows you to simply spin records, play cassettes and CDs, or tune in to your favorite station on the analog AM/FM tuner for hours of nostalgic enjoyment.


MORE DETAILS
For more details, please visit the manufacturer's website.
reviewed by the mgmnt

file under:
vinyl to digital transfers - digital djing / vinyl to digital / turntables / and more

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Crosley
Recording Tech Turntable - Mahogany (CR6007A-MA)

USB turntable with built in speakers and editing software

LAB POINTS
- USB/SD Card recording turntable
- built in stereo speakers
- plug in your portable audio player via aux in/out
- analog AM/FM tuner
- 3 speeds (33/45/78)
- remote control included


MANUFACTURER'S REVIEW
Blast into the vinyl preservation revolution with the CR6007A Tech Turntable. Simply plug in a USB or SD card to transfer music from your records, giving you the flexibility to put the digital tunes on CDs or your MP3 player. The tech turntable's playback feature can also be used to listen to prerecorded MP3 files. Return to the days of platform heels and The Beatles' Abbey Road album as you admire the wood-styled casing, mirror faceplate, and streamlined dials. This Crosley turntable even features a PAR (portable audio ready) hookup for MP3 players, and an analog AM/FM radio for more listening enjoyment.


MORE DETAILS
For more details, please visit the manufacturer's website.
reviewed by the mgmnt

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vinyl to digital transfers - digital djing / vinyl to digital / turntables / and more

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Crosley
Tech Turntable w/ Built-In CD Player - Black (CR6008A-BK)

USB/SD Card turntable with built in CD player and speakers

LAB POINTS
- USB/SD Card recording turntable
- built in CD player
- built in stereo speakers
- plug in your portable audio player via aux in/out
- analog AM/FM tuner
- 3 speeds (33/45/78)
- remote control included


MANUFACTURER'S REVIEW
Put the needle on the record and rock with the CR6008A Tech Turntable. This streamlined turntable will easily transfer your vinyl directly to a USB drive or SD card. Dynamic full range stereo speakers offer clear, warm melodies that will quickly make this three-speed 1970's vintage turntable your favorite way to play all your music. The CR6008A also is Portable Audio Ready for easy connection to your iPod or MP3 player and features a CD player and AM/FM radio.


MORE DETAILS
For more details, please visit the manufacturer's website.
reviewed by the mgmnt

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vinyl to digital transfers - digital djing / vinyl to digital / turntables / and more

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Electrix
Ebox-44 USB Audio Interface

compact USB interface for DJs/producers

LAB POINTS
- compact USB interface
- 4 RCA inputs with Phono / Line switch
- 1/4" Microphone input with level control
- 4 RCA line level outputs
- 1/4" stereo headphone output with level control
- LED activity indicators for inputs and outputs
- ground post for turntable connections
- includes low-latency drivers for Mac & PC


MANUFACTURER'S REVIEW
The new Electrix Ebox-44 is the perfect audio interface for mobile applications, budget studios, computer DJs, or even home use to convert your vinyl or CD collection to digital audio files. It is fully USB bus powered, which means it can be connected on-the-fly and used anywhere with just a laptop.

The Ebox-44 features four RCA inputs, four RCA outputs, 1/4in headphones output with volume control, and 1/4in microphone input with gain control. The four inputs support turntables thanks to the built-in phono preamps, ground post, and phono/line switch. The four inputs and outputs have blue LED activity indicators.

The included low latency ASIO and Core Audio drivers means flawless performance on both PC and Mac. The Ebox-44 is great for use with DJ software including Virtual DJ and Traktor, audio recording and production software like Logic, Cubase, & Live, or even everyday applications like iTunes.
reviewed by the mgmnt

file under:
vinyl to digital transfers - digital djing / vinyl to digital /

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Griffin
iMic USB Audio Interface + Software for Recording

This the most inexpensive option for transferring vinyl audio or recording audio into your Mac. Just plug your mixer into the iMic; and plug the iMic into your USB port. Features ultra compact design with no drivers to install and no power brick to attach and a side mounted selector switch to choose between mic and line input. In addition to having better audio quality than most built-in soundcards, the iMic also comes with a free download of the Final Vinyl recording software which allows you to custom EQ and add CD-readable tracks before you record (saving you lots of time). A quality alternative to expensive I/O devices.
reviewed by the mgmnt

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all - digital djing / vinyl to digital transfers - digital djing / vinyl to digital / and more

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ION
U-Record USB Audio Interface w/ Audacity Recording Software

OVERVIEW
The U-Record is an easy to use USB interface from ION. Simply connect your turntable, tape player or other audio sources to your computer with this USB interface (with pre-amp) and record them into digital format with included recording software. One of the most simple and affordable interfaces available.

FEATURES
The U-Record features simple plug and play operation (PC and Mac) so you can start recording into digital formats right away. It uses one RCA phono/line input for connecting your turntable, tape player, or other audio device, ground (for turntables) and features a built-in pre-amp (no need to go through a stereo system - connect direct to the U-Record). Also included is the easy to use EZ Vinyl Converter (PC) and EZ Audio Converter (Mac) software that automatically imports the music directly to your iTunes library, and Audacity software (PC/Mac) for more advanced audio editing and reduction of clicks, pops, hiss and other noises from worn recordings.
reviewed by the mgmnt

file under:
vinyl to digital transfers - digital djing / vinyl to digital / ion dj store

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Music Hall
MMF USB-1 Turntable

high quality USB turntable

LAB POINTS
- high quality belt drive turntable w/ sturdy construction similar to Technics
- USB output for converting vinyl on Mac/PC
- analog output with built-in phono preamp for direct line out
- includes Audio Technica AT3600L cartridge
- +/- 10% pitch control


MANUFACTURER'S REVIEW
Music Hall's new USB-1 is a convenient, easy to use, and fun turntable. It’s a snap to set-up and comes with everything you need to start spinning vinyl. Whether you’re looking to digitize and download your record collection, release your inner DJ, or simply discover the joy of spinning vinyl, the USB-1 is your answer. It has a built-in phono preamp, cartridge, dust cover, and includes all necessary cables and software required for simple plug and play operation.


MORE DETAILS
For more details, please visit the manufacturer's website.
reviewed by the mgmnt

file under:
vinyl to digital transfers - digital djing / vinyl to digital / turntables / and more

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Numark
PT01 Portable USB Turntable

bestselling portable turntable

Now with USB for easy recording of vinyl to WAV or MP3 directly into your computer! For anyone who collects or buys vinyl regularly, the uses of a portable turntable are obvious- listen to records before you buy, and play them anywhere. It's a good deal all around. The Numark PT 01 follows the basic principles that brought us the Vestax Handy Trax and improves upon those features in quite a few areas. Like the Vestax, this turntable has many features which older portables lack: play speeds of 33, 45 & 78 rpm, dual RCA outputs, hi/low tone control, pitch control, the ability to run on battery or included power plug, and now USB connectivity. The basics are down solid, and improvements are made in key "aesthetic" areas that make the PT 01 even more convenient. Most importantly, the PT 01 is a more utilitarian shape than the Handy Trax- not quite as sexy, but at 12" in its case, this will fit inside a record crate or bag quite easily. Another nice touch is the fact that the little platter has a slipmat on it. In addition, there are raised felt pads on the player's surface to keep 12" records from getting scratched. The other main improvement is the inclusion of both 3.5mm and 1/8" headphone inputs. A high quality portable and a great value especially with the ability to record to computer via USB (with included software for MAC and PC).
reviewed by the mgmnt

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Numark
TTi USB Turntable

iPod ready USB deck

OVERVIEW
The TTi USB combines Numark performance, USB connectivity and direct-to-iPod recording all in one easy-to-use turntable unit. The USB turntable features a built-in universal dock for easy transfer of vinyl to your iPod, as well as line-level RCA outs with built-in phono pre-amp to connect to a mixer and record to analog sources, and a USB out for recording to your Mac or PC with included software.

FEATURES
The TTi USB features a built-in universal dock for direct vinyl recording to your iPod video (5th gen) and/or iPod nano (2nd gen). It also records with any docking iPod when used through iTunes and connects via USB to your MAC or PC for direct digital recording with included software - no drivers or interfaces required! Line level RCA outs allow for connecting to mixers, recievers, etc. while turntable itself features belt drive performance with +/-10% pitch control and 33/45 RPM playback (78 RPM recording is possible with bundled software). Included are the EZ Vinyl Converter software (PC) and EZ Audio Converter (Mac) for hassle-free recording, as well as Audacity recording (PC and Mac) software to reduce vinyl noise and pops.

OUR OPINION
The TTi USB gives you all the options you can possibly need to get your vinyl to digital format. With the option of direct to iPod recording, computer recording, and analog recording (via RCA outs), the TTi sets itself apart as one of the most versatile and easy to use vinyl-to-digital solutions. Add to this the bundled software and the +/-10% pitch control and you've got a turntable that is ideal for all levels of DJs and vinyl enthusiasts alike.
reviewed by the mgmnt

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vinyl to digital transfers - digital djing / vinyl to digital / numark - turntables / and more

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Numark
TT-USB Turntable (w/ Recording Software)

full featured USB turntable

OVERVIEW
The TTUSB turntable makes digitizing your vinyl record collection a breeze. The belt-drive table is equipped with an adjustable anti-skating control for increased stereo balance, support for 33.33 and 45 RPM playback speeds, ± 10% adjustable pitch control, and a 1/8-inch stereo minijack input connector to facilitate the transfer of cassette tapes, Numark's TTUSB is an excellent and affordable tool for digitally archiving your record collection. Combined with Audacity's software (PC and Mac compatible) for removing clicks and other noises, the TTUSB is an easy-to-use solution for transferring your record collection to a computer and converting them into WAVs or MP3s.
reviewed by the mgmnt

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vinyl to digital transfers - digital djing / vinyl to digital / numark - turntables / and more

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Numark
TTX-USB Turntable

feature loaded USB turntable

OVERVIEW
This is the improved USB version of the Numark TTX turntable. The impressive features of the TTX are now paired with the ability to digitize your vinyl without the need for an audio interface via USB plug and play compatibility for both Mac and Windows PCs at no extra cost. Includes all necessary cables as well as software for removing clicks and pops.

FEATURES
As a pro turntable, the TTX is a very viable option to the classic 1200. This turntable will function like a 1200 in basic features, but also adds many new digital features and improvements. It's evident that Numark had turntablists in mind when designing this turntable, but most of the features come in handy for non-turntablist DJs as well. For starters, it includes both a straight arm and s-shaped tonearm. Some would argue the straight arm is better for scratching (more skip resistant), whereas the classic S-Shaped tonearm is better for mixing. The pitch control (+/- 10, 20 and 50% selectable pitch ranges with key (chord) control) is movable and can be rotated for battle or regular position. The digital display features vital BPM and RPM information (plays 33 / 45 / 78 and reverse) and all the connections are detachable (power, RCA, and ground wire). The construction is as solid as the 1200, weighs more than the 1200, and features a similar steel top and rubber base construction. Add the USB connectivity and you can safely say Numark has covered all the bases.

OUR OPINION
Like all the other turntables that have come along over the years trying to compete with the Technics 1200, we were initially skeptical about the performance of the TTX, which has been hailed by many as the next step. But after inspection and testing, we must first applaud Numark for their vast improvements in product quality. The TTX-1 is leaps and bounds beyond the sub-par quality that they had become notorious years back. That being said, the TTX-1 is quite impressive. Beyond the list of new features and improvements (see below), it is solidly built (even heavier than a 1200) with an extremely strong motor (stronger torque than 1200), great start-up time and accurate pitch control. With the addition of USB connectivity (which eliminates the need for an audio interface when digitizing vinyl), Numark has included a very necessary tool for today's DJ.
reviewed by snackmaster

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vinyl to digital transfers - digital djing / vinyl to digital / numark - turntables / and more

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Ortofon
Arkiv OM (Recording) Cartridge

optimized for vinyl to digital recording

LAB POINTS
- top choice for digitizing your vinyl
- features elliptical stylus for better sound
- includes extra stylus
- not recommended for djing
- headshell required, not included


MANUFACTURER's REVIEW
Growing demand for the ability to transcribe vinyl to digital formats has prompted the creation of the Arkiv - a cartridge specially designed to provide optimized sound quality specifically for recording purposes. The Arkiv boasts clear and accurate sound reproduction and remarkable stereo imaging, making it perfectly suited for sampling, transcription, and numerous other professional applications. The Arkiv ships with an elliptical stylus, for more detailed sound reproduction.
reviewed by the mgmnt

file under:
ortofon - cartridges / vinyl to digital transfers - digital djing / dj cartridges / listening + recording cartridges / and more

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Ortofon
Arkiv (Recording) Concorde Cartridge Kit

optimized for vinyl to digital recording

LAB POINTS
- top choice for digitizing your vinyl
- features elliptical stylus for better sound
- includes extra stylus
- not recommended for djing


MANUFACTURER's REVIEW
Growing demand for the ability to transcribe vinyl to digital formats has prompted the creation of the Arkiv - a cartridge specially designed to provide optimized sound quality specifically for recording purposes. The Arkiv boasts clear and accurate sound reproduction and remarkable stereo imaging, making it perfectly suited for sampling, transcription, and numerous other professional applications. The Arkiv ships with an elliptical stylus, for more detailed sound reproduction.
reviewed by mgmnt

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ortofon - cartridges / vinyl to digital transfers - digital djing / dj cartridges / listening + recording cartridges / and more

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Pro-Ject
Debut III USB Turntable - Black

entry level audiophile deck with USB

Pro-Ject's Debut III turntable is an excellent way to get outstanding, audiophile quality sound and USB connectivity for less than $500. This hi-fi turntable features completely manual, belt drive operation with 8.6" tone arm, 1.3kg balanced steel platter with included felt mat, low-tolerance chrome-plated stainless-steel axle that runs on a polished ball bearing in a brass bearing housing, and reduced vibration motor, and resonance damping feet to ensure top quality sound. This is the USB version so you can connect directly to your MAC or PC to convert your vinyl to digital. Comes complete with Ortofon OM5e cartridge so you can start listening to your vinyl right out of the box. Recommended.
reviewed by the mgmnt

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Pro-Ject
Phono Box II USB Phono Preamp - Black

audiophile phono preamp with USB connectivity

The Phono Box II USB is a high quality phono preamp from Pro-Ject that is compatible with both Moving Magnet (MM) and Moving Coil (MC) cartridges. There is a swtich on the rear panel to select which kind of cartridge you are using, as well as analog RCA out and USB out to connect to either PC or MAC. This unit features low-noise ICs and premium components to ensure top quality sound.
reviewed by the mgmnt

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Pro-Ject
Phono Box II USB Phono Preamp - Silver

audiophile phono preamp with USB connectivity

The Phono Box II USB is a high quality phono preamp from Pro-Ject that is compatible with both Moving Magnet (MM) and Moving Coil (MC) cartridges. There is a swtich on the rear panel to select which kind of cartridge you are using, as well as analog RCA out and USB out to connect to either PC or MAC. This unit features low-noise ICs and premium components to ensure top quality sound.
reviewed by the mgmnt

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vinyl to digital transfers - digital djing / dj accessories / vinyl to digital / and more

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Shure
M97xE Cartridge

Long before Shure became recognized for their exceptional DJ cartridges, their phono reputation was built on audiophile cartridges. Their top of the line, the V15VxMR is world famous for its extremely accurate sound reproduction and standout, ultra low record wear. That model costs about $350. For people demanding a high quality audio cartridge for either listening or recording, the M97xE offers many of the same qualities at much more manageable price. This cartridge offers accurate reproduction that can't be found in dj cartridges, particularly in the high frequency range, precise tracking ability (much lower record wear than a dj cartridge) and a flat frequency response. It also features a "dynamic stabilizer," which maintains a uniform distance between the cartridge and the record under difficult playing conditions, such as those caused by warped records, or mismatched tonearm mass. Just to be clear, the M97xE is recommended for listening or recording/sampling purposes only, it is not designed or recommended for dj use.
reviewed by the mgmnt

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shure - cartridges / vinyl to digital transfers - digital djing / dj cartridges / listening + recording cartridges / and more

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Shure
Whitelabel Cartridge

OVERVIEW
Shure's entry into the concorde-style cartridge market. This is the first real competition we've seen to the dominant Ortofon line. The White Label is aimed specifically at today's hybrid club deejays, combining the high grade sound quality demanded for club use with Shure's legendary scratch ability and low record wear. From our testing, we've found that the sound quality is comparable to the Ortofon DJ (blue)cartridge, with an output at 6.0mV, great skip resistance, and a low tracking force for minimal record wear. The white label also makes several new improvements over other concorde-style cartridges. It is the first concord-style cartridge that allows you to adjust stylus overhang (useful for setting up on different turntables), and according to Shure, they have also developed a reliable electrical connection for the part that plugs into your tonearm. This should eliminate the eventual poor connection that may occurs with other concorde-style cartridges. For straight scratching, the M447 is still number one in terms of skip resistance, but the White Label is an excellent combination of club sound quality and scratch ability.
reviewed by the mgmnt

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shure - cartridges / vinyl to digital transfers - digital djing / bestsellers - cartridges / dj cartridges / and more

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Stanton
T.55 USB Turntable

belt drive USB turntable w/ pitch control

LAB POINTS
- USB output for easy vinyl digitizing on PC or MAC
- fully manual belt drive operation
- Stanton 500.v3 cartridge included
- straight tone arm for better tracking


MANUFACTURER'S REVIEW
The T.55 USB is a great all-around belt drive turntable that also features USB and RCA outputs so you can easily use the deck to transfer the music on your vinyl records onto your PC or Mac to create music files for use with CDs or mp3 players such as iPod. To make things even simpler, we've included the software you can use to transfer and edit the music files, so you can remove any pops and clicks that are common when playing vinyls. The T.55 USB also comes with the professional Stanton 500.v3 cartridge for ideal sound quality and perfect compatibility. Not just a tool for vinyl transfer, this deck is also a perfect fit for the novice or intermediate level DJ.
reviewed by snackmaster

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vinyl to digital transfers - digital djing / vinyl to digital / turntables / and more

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Stanton
T.92 USB Turntable (w/ Recording Software)

direct drive USB turntable

OVERVIEW
The T.92 upgrades Stanton's popular T.92 turntable with a sleek black finish on the body and tone arm. It is a direct drive turntable with USB connectivity for under $300. Digitize your vinyl without the need for an interface or mix and scratch with great pick up and platter response. Includes cartridge, slipmat, and all necessary cables as well as editing software for digitizing your records.


FEATURES
The T.92 turntable features a quality, high-torque direct drive motor with +/- 8% or 12% pitch range (with key lock!) in Stanton's unique styled body. The direct drive motor coupled with the S-shaped tone arm provides much better response, pick up and tracking than belt drive turntables allowing for better performance while mixing and scratching. The T.92 also features USB connectivty, an important feature in todays age of digital DJing. Simply connect to your computer to digitize your records into audio files for your Digital DJ system or your iPod. Comes with everything you need to get started - cartridge, slipmat, cloth dust cover, and Cakewalk Pyro sound editing program.


OUR OPINION
If you need a direct drive turntable that's good for DJing with USB capabilities - this is it. The T.92 is much better for dj performance than some of the more budget belt drive USB tables we sell, and it doesn't have any extraneous features you might not use like some of it's higher priced competitors. It is a great all in one solution with everything you need already in the box for under $300.
reviewed by the mgmnt

file under:
vinyl to digital transfers - digital djing / vinyl to digital / turntables / and more

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Vestax
VMC-002XLu USB Mixer - Black

OVERVIEW
The VMC-002XLu is the upgraded version of the popular (and now discontinued) VMC-002XL mixer. This new version gets a sleek black finish and adds a USB port for easy connectivity to your computer. It features a simple, durable 2 channel design, upgradable crossfader, and XLR outputs that get you professional level connectivity at a very inexpensive price.

FEATURES
The VMC-002XLu is your basic entry level, 2 channel mixer, beefed up in terms of sound quality and durability and now the addition of a USB port. The USB port is a great since you can bypass the need for an interface and record vinyl or mixes directly into your computer (recording software needed). It has 2 phono and 2 line inputs (channel 1 and channel 2), plus 1 microphone input with volume control. Each channel has trim adjustment and 3 band EQs that go from completely off (kill) to +6dB. The crossfader is an ALPS fader (upgradeable to the CF-PCV) with a curve control switch on the front panel for "soft" or "sharp" crossfading. It also has a master/cue mix knob so you can practice in the headphones. As mentioned before, one of the main attractions of this mixer is the option for professional XLR outputs, which allow you to send a higher quality signal to any piece of equipment. The VMC-002XL also offers a standard RCA out, which you could use for your "record" out.

OPINION
The VMC-002XL gives you excellent mid-level quality and features at a very economical price. It's an ideal choice for most non-club situations (home and small studio), and with it's three band EQs and XLR outs could even be used in a club if you were in a pinch. It's compact size won't take up too much space, and it has all the necessary features for most dj's (and digital DJs now with the addition of a USB port)0. Scratch DJs will like possibility of upgrading to a PCV crossfader and there really isn't much more you can ask for at this price range.
reviewed by the mgmnt

file under:
vestax - mixers / vinyl to digital transfers - digital djing / basic - mixers / mid-range - mixers / and more

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