OVERVIEW
Instant Music is a simple and cost efficient, all-in-one solution to transfer your vinyl into your computer, edit those files, AND burn the files onto CD. Instant Music includes an interface (goes between your computer and mixer), recording software, and all the...
expand review necessary cables.
USES
- transfer vinyl into computer
- make playlists and burn CDs
- edting
- sound optimization and noise/pop reduction
- turn continuous mixes into separate tracks
FEATURES
Instant Music connects to your computer via USB, just plug your mixer into the RCA inputs, and install the included software, and you are ready to record. The included Nero software is three programs in one, and allows you record, edit, and clean-up your sound files; as well as organizing the files (make tracklists) and burning them onto CD. The editing features are quite easy to use (works similar to Cooledit) and includes useful features such as sound optimization, noise and pop reduction, cut and paste editing, and crossfading between 2 tracks. An especially useful feature for creating mix cds is the ability to create separate tracks from one continuous sound file. This allows you to record your mix, then place markers where you want the CD tracks, and Nero will export the tracks separately based on your markings. Nero saves files as WAV, MP3, WMA, and AAC. Nero is compatible with Windows only.
OUR OPINION
Instant Music is an easy choice for converting vinyl into digital files, and much more. The interface is straight-forward and simple, and in terms of quality is better than going directly into your computer, but not as good as getting a studio-style sound card or interface. But at this price point, the inclusion of the Nero software, low cost, and ease of use are the main selling points. The Nero software is actually quite powerful for a program at this price range, and quite useful for DJs. The ability to create playlists and actually burn those playlists onto CD is a standout feature, as are the editing functions such as cut and paste edtiing, track marking, and sound optimization.
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...
expand review 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. -the mgmnt
This the most inexpensive option for transferring vinyl audio or recording audio into your Mac. Just plug your mixer (RCA adaptor is included) into the iMic; and plug the iMic into your USB port. Features ultra compact design with no drivers to...
expand review 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. -the mgmnt
Record audio directly to your iPod or any external USB storage device with the iKey. The iKey can record audio from any audio device and write it directly to MP3 or WAV format in real time. The iKey features selectable bitrate...
expand review for recordings, compatibility with USB 1.0, 1.1, and 2.0 devices, led indicator showing remaining memory available on target device, record level control, level clip indicator, gold plated rca inputs and reset button. Use it to record DJ sets directly to your iPod or capture samples or performances out of the studio. An extremely useful accessory for your iPod.
OVERVIEW
This is the upgraded version of Gemini's popular IKey portable recorder. The IKey can record any line-out audio source onto a USB hard drive, flash drive, or even an Apple iPod, all in real-time. This Plus version offers several impressive enhancements from...
expand review the basic Ikey including: upgraded sound quality options (up to 320 kbps MP3 and WAV), a built-in phono pre-amp for recording directly from a turntable, a new mic input with included stereo mic, a VU meter display for monitoring recording levels, and a headphone output for monitoring.
HOW IT WORKS
The Ikey works without any software. Simply plug in your audio source (mixer, turntable, mic, guitar) into the RCA or mic input, then plug in your hard drive, flash drive, or iPod into the USB output. Press record and the Ikey is activated. If you are recording into your iPod, the resulting audio file will appear as a song in your song list. Recording options include sound quality selector (MP3 128, 192, 256, 320 kbps or WAV), a recording level control, and a line / phone / mic input selector.
The Ikey Plus is completely portable weighing approximately 2 lbs. and measuring approximately 5.5" x 1" x 3.25". It is powered by either (4) AA batteries (not included) or the included power supply.
OUR OPINION
The Ikey is a powerful, portable device for recording DJ sets, samples, and instrument sketches. With its enhanced sound quality, it rivals any portable recorder on the market. It does not include an internal hard drive or playback options, but this is reflected in the very affordable price. The IKey is especially recommended for use with an iPod, which allows for instant playback. -the mgmnt
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...
expand review 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. -the mgmnt
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...
expand review 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. -the mgmnt
The Arkiv cartridge is the first Ortofon cart specifically design to provide optimized sound quality specifically for the recording process. Featuring an output of 6mV and an elliptical stylus for extended high frequency response, the Arkiv boasts clear and accurate sound reproduction...
expand review and remarkable stereo imaging making it an excellent choice for any recording situation (capturing your vinyl to digital format, sampling, etc.). Scratching and back cueing is not recommended with this cartridge. Set includes one extra stylus (which offsets your initial cost). -mgmnt
Headshell mountable OM version. The Arkiv cartridge is the first Ortofon cart specifically design to provide optimized sound quality specifically for the recording process. Featuring an output of 6mV and an elliptical stylus for extended high frequency response, the Arkiv boasts clear...
expand review and accurate sound reproduction and remarkable stereo imaging making it an excellent choice for any recording situation (capturing your vinyl to digital format, sampling, etc.). Scratching and back cueing is not recommended with this cartridge. Set includes one extra stylus (which offsets your initial cost). -mgmnt
OVERVIEW
FireWire 410 is a powerful audio/MIDI interface that features fast Firewire connection, flexibility, compact size and low price. FireWire 410's 4-in/10-out configuration complete with preamps is ideal for personal recording, studio quality monitoring, or routing discrete outputs to a mixer. The on-board...
expand review mixer and software control panel provide total routing flexibility—including monitoring with external effects. You also get ultra-low latency software monitoring and near-zero latency hardware direct monitoring; and two headphone outs with independent level controls let you collaborate with a partner. FireWire 410 can even be completely bus-powered for total mobile operation.
USES
- high fidelity recording and output
- plug-in recording with pre-amps
- excellent for laptop/mobile use
FEATURES
24-bit/96kHz analog to digital converters: The FireWire 410 uses the highest quality components for digital audio conversion, insuring high quality recording and analog to digital transfers.
24-bit/192kHz digital to analog converter: New high-end audio formats such as DVD-Audio are delivering output at a stunning 192kHz sampling rate. If you're ready to take your critical listening up a level, FireWire 410's ability to output 24-bit/192kHz fidelity in stereo is a giant step up. You also get high-resolution 96kHz audio from all outputs simultaneously.
2 analog audio input channels: Two independent analog input channels accept a wide variety of input signals. A front-panel switch for each channel selects between 1/4" TS (-10dBV) line-level input on the rear and Neutrik (1/4" TS and balanced XLR) mic/instrument input on the front. Connect microphones, guitars, keyboards, samplers, CD players and more. The driver software allows you to route these internally to any analog or digital outputs.
8 analog audio outputs: The combination of eight 1/4" TS outputs and software-controlled routing and mixing yield a tremendous amount of flexibility. This design is equally suited for routing individual signals to separate channels on an external mixer or directly driving the components of a surround sound system. Any output pair can also produce high-definition 24-bit/192kHz signals for amazing sonic clarity.
Digital I/O: Two channels of S/PDIF in and out allow pristine transfers with other digital devices such as CD players, DATs and MiniDisc systems. The software control panel selects between rear-panel coaxial and TOSlink optical inputs, as well as which signals are routed simultaneously to both digital outs. Accompanying LEDs indicate valid data for both input and output. S/PDIF sample rates can either sync to external sources or operate at 44.1kHz, 48kHz or 96kHz.
Dual high-performance preamps: Each of the two input channels incorporates award-winning M-Audio microphone/instrument preamp technology—complete with +48-volt phantom power for condenser mics. They offer up to 48dB of gain for instruments like guitar and bass—and an amazing 66dB of gain for microphones. 20dB pads, as well as signal and clip LEDs on each channel also aid in adjusting proper input signal levels. These preamps simply sound great no matter what you connect to them. FireWire bus-powered operation means that you can record anywhere your laptop goes.
MIDI I/O: In addition to audio, FireWire 410 also features a built-in 1 x 1 MIDI interface. A bypass switch also allows throughput from MIDI In to MIDI Out , allowing you to maintain gear connections even while the computer is off or busy with non-musical tasks. The included drivers are compatible with most popular MIDI software for both Mac and Windows.
Dual headphone outputs: The combination of two 1/4" TSR headphone outputs allow you to easily compose, record and mix with a partner. The software control panel allows assignment of one or more sources to the headphones—perfect for producing in surround. Independent volume controls assure maximum flexibility and listening comfort.
OUR OPINION
The Firewire 410 was one of the first affordable and portable Firewire interfaces on the market. Coupled with its excellent features set and extreme flexibility, the Firewire 410 has become a mainstay for many home and portable studios. If you are a beginner or intermediate producer, don't let all the technical features scare you away, this is an excellent piece that you can grow into. For advanced producer, you'll like all the flexibility the Firewire 410 offers, an invaluable feature for the mobile producer. -the mgmnt
OVERVIEW
The Audiophile USB is M-Audio's very affordable midline USB interface. It allows you to record high quality audio and MIDI, all with the universal compatibility of USB. In addition, this model is excellent for use with DJ setups, with RCA inputs and...
expand review outputs.
USES
• audio recording & playback
• MIDI recording & playback
• MIDI input & output
• vinyl to digital transfers
FEATURES
For connectivity, the Audiophile USB includes two 1/4" inputs, stereo RCA inputs and outputs (connect to dj mixers), S/PDIF digital IN and OUT, and MIDI IN and OUT. A front panel headphone jack with individual level control is included for monitoring.
OUR OPINION
The Audiophile is one of our best selling USB interfaces. It corrects many issues associated with other USB interfaces (latency, poor sound quality) by using AC plug power (no USB-powered). In turn, the AC-powered components allow Audiophile USB to deliver some of the best fidelity, frequency response, dynamic range and noise specs available in a USB interface. In addition for those who want to connect their DJ setups to their computer, the RCA inputs and outputs offer easy connections. -the mgmnt
OVERVIEW
Small enough to fit in your pocket, Transit brings hi-resolution 24-bit/96kHz recording and playback to any USB-compatible computer. In simple terms, this card upgrades your computer's soundcard to studio quality both for input and output. For further ease, the Transit is USB...
expand review powered.
USES
- audio recording & playback
- vinyl to digital transfers
FEATURES
The Transit comes equipped with both stereo 1/8" analog IN and OUT, as well as an optical digital IN. With a couple adaptors, you can record most sources (we wouldn't recommend mic use) with studio quality 24-bit/96kHz sound. And for discerning ears, the Transit can boost up your computer's sound card, increasing output sound quality and loudness.
OUR OPINION
The simplicity of this product is the main strength of this model. Priced under $80, just think of it as a useful adaptor. Throw it in your studio bag, use it to record on the fly, convert audio, or listen to iTunes or DVD player with improved sound. -the mgmnt
OVERVIEW
The Edirol UA-25 is the ideal mid-priced USB/ MIDI interface to serve as the hub for your home or mobile studio. The UA-25 will give you high-end features and performance in a moderately priced, compact package. The most obvious feature of the...
expand review UA-25 is the metal casing, a feature usually reserved for high-end components. In addition to impact protection, the aluminum casing will shield out audio interference. For those who demand high quality audio, the UA-25 offers premium quality sound with powerful analog electronics, quality digital converters, and numerous inputs and outputs including high quality balanced 1/4" outputs. Edirol products are comparably of higher quality than its competitors, and this particular model marks a clear choice in the mid price range for interfaces.
KEY FEATURES
Two High Quality Mic Preamps: Includes a pair of high quality microphone preamps using premium analog components. It provides a clean recording environment to give a perfect recording.
Built-in Analog Limiter: Reduce sudden overloaded sounds or popping noises in your recordings.
Wide Variety of I/O Ports: Wide range of input and output ports in a compact case. A pair of Neutrix XLR/TRS combo jacks with Phantom power, Hi-Z port for guitar direct connection, S/P DIF optical I/O ports and MIDI IN/OUT ports.
Zero Latency, Direct Monitoring: The UA-25 provides ultra low latency with maximum performance from popular music software, such as Sonar, Logic and Cubase. You can control Direct Monitoring from the front panel. Ideal for soft synths controlled from MIDI devices.
USB Bus Powered: No need for an AC adaptor. In combination with your laptop, you get a quality field recorder.
OUR OPINION
If you want to step up from entry level USB interfaces, the Edirol UA-25 should be one of the first you consider. With all its advanced home studio features (premium sound, mic pre-amp, balanced outs, limiter) and portable features (metal casing, USB powered), the UA is the most versatile interface we carry. Overall, there are few to no competitors in this price range with the features and sound quality of the UA-25. A strong buy.
OVERVIEW
The Firewire Solo is an affordable interface which in addition to standard 1/4" and digital inputs & outputs, also boasts separate microphone and guitar inputs. This flexibility allows you to perform standard interface functions (recording, sampling, inputting DJ setup to computer, outputting...
expand review sound to speakers and headphones), as well as recording directly from mics and guitars. The Solo is an excellent choice for producers/songwriters who want Firewire performance and the added flexibility of several input options, all in one very portable package.
FEATURES
The Solo's Firewire offers zero-latency connection to your computer at the studio standard 24-bit/96kHz. In addition, the Solo is bus-powered through the Firewire, eliminating the need for a power cord.
Inputs: The mic input is an XLR port with phantom power, independent gain control and clip meter. The guitar input is a standard 1/4" input also with independent gain control and clip meter. The back of the Solo features a S/PDIF digital input/output and standard unbalanced 1/4" inputs.
Outputs: A headphone output with independent level control is also included on the front panel, which is essential for mobile producers who don't have access to monitors. Additional outputs include dual Firewire outs for daisy-chaining, balanced 1/4 line outputs, and S/PDIF digital output.
OUR OPINION
The Firewire Solo fills several needs. For those who will utilise the mic and/or guitar into their productions, the Firewire Solo is an excellent all-in-one solution. For those who want an affordable Firewire interface, the Firewire Solo is one of the best (and only) at this price-point. And finally, for those who want to use this as their primary portable interface, the metal construction, price and the ability to capture vocals makes this an excellent travel piece. -the mgmnt
OVERVIEW
The Edirol FA-66 is a smart, mid-priced Firewire/MIDI interface. And like its USB-cousin the UA-25, it will work as an ideal hub for your home/mobile studio. With some of the best technical specs of any interface in this price range and...
expand review the speed of a Firewire connection, the FA-66 is an obvious choice for those who wish to upgrade from an entry-level interface.
USES
- audio recording & playback
- MIDI recording & playback
- MIDI input & output
- vinyl to digital transfers
FEATURES
The most obvious features of the FA-66 are its compact size and the durable metal casing (which not only protects the unit from road wear, but also shields out audio interference). For those who demand high quality audio, the FA-66 offers premium level sound with powerful analog electronics, quality digital converters, and numerous inputs and outputs including balanced 1/4" outs. Edirol (and its parent company Roland) make products that are clearly built to higher standards than entry level competitors, and this particular model is an obvious choice in the midprice range for interfaces. Additional features include:
Two High Quality Mic Preamps: Includes a pair of high quality microphone preamps using premium analog components. It provides a clean recording environment to give a perfect microphone recording.
Built-in Analog Limiter: Reduce sudden overloaded sounds or popping noises in your recordings.
Wide Variety of I/O Ports: A pair of Neutrix XLR/TRS combo jacks with Phantom power, (4) 1/4" outputs, (2) RCA inputs, S/P DIF optical I/O ports and MIDI IN/OUT ports.
Zero Latency, Direct Monitoring: The FA-66 provides ultra low latency with maximum performance from popular music software, such as Sonar, Logic and Cubase. You can control Direct Monitoring from the front panel. Ideal for soft synths controlled from MIDI devices.
OUR OPINION:
If your sonic needs take you beyond the scope of entry-level interfaces and you want the power and convenience of Firewire, the Edirol FA-66 is the first model you should consider. Like its USB cousin the UA-25, the FA-66 and all its advanced home studio features (premium sound, mic pre-amp, balanced outs, limiter) and portable features (metal casing, Firewire powered), make it one of the most versatile interfaces we carry.
OVERVIEW
The new MBox 2 is the updated version of the most popular Pro Tools solution. It includes both the newly designed MBox 2 interface and the industry standard Pro Tools LE production program.
NEW FEATURES IN VERSION 2
Improved Sound: Digidesign has improved the...
expand review already excellent sound of the original Mbox by replacing the high quality Focusrite mix preamps with new Digidesign preamps. Also Digidesign has also included new digital and analog converters with better fidelity.
New Interface Design: The Mbox 2 interface can be positioned horizontally or vertically for easy placement. Mbox 2 comes with two faceplates, which are easily swapped using the included hex wrench. One faceplate features a large handle that makes the unit easily portable. The second faceplate, which offers a rubberized grip, allows Mbox 2 to sit flat on a desktop and reduces the space required when the unit is packed for traveling.
More Simultaneous Inputs: 2 analog / 2 digital simultaneously.
New MIDI I/O: MBox 2 adds a very use MIDI input/output.
More Free Software: The Mbox already featured the most free plug-ins and software in its class. Version 2 adds the very powerful Pro Tools Ignition Pack (click the manufacturer's link below for full list of contents)
FEATURES
Mbox 2 is a full-featured, USB-powered studio-in-a-box that works with your Window XP or Mac OS X. With a distinctive hardware interface that delivers exceptional sound quality, Mbox 2 works in conjunction with your computer and the included Pro Tools LE software to provide the creative power you need to achieve professional results. Complementing the hardware interface's analog, digital, and MIDI I/O, Pro Tools LE software offers 32 tracks of simultaneous recording and playback, 128 virtual tracks, 256 MIDI tracks, and a host of additional features. As with all Pro Tools LE systems, Mbox 2 also ships with the Pro Tools Ignition Pack™ —an array of added composition and production tools to extend the power of your system.
OUR OPINION
The MBox Pro Tools solution is always the first Production suite we recommend. In the interface, you get a professional quality component with high quality inputs and mic pre-amp for top-level recording. With its new portable design, it's ideal for your home and mobile setup. As for the software, Pro Tools is simply the industry standard. The LE version offered here features everything you need to record, create, and finish a track; all within, the time-tested Pro Tools environment. If you need more options, Pro Tools has the most third party plug-ins and software enhancements available of all the production programs. And when you want to take your productions to the next level, your tracks will be compatible with any Pro Tools enable studio. -the mgmnt
The Fast Track Pro USB Interface gives you mobile recording flexibility with professional recording features. It features 2 front-panel mic/line inputs complete with phantom power for condenser microphones, inserts for outboard effects balanced and unbalanced analog outputs, S/PDIF digital I/O, MIDI I/O,...
expand review and more.
Fast Track Pro also features near-zero latency direct hardware monitoring and low-latency ASIO software monitoring, plus an A/B source switch and dual output pairs for DJ-style cueing. It is compatible with most popular PC and Mac music software including Pro Tools M-Powered. USB connection (or optional DC adaptor) make it a snap to set up. Compatible with both PC and Mac. -the mgmnt
OVERVIEW
The MBox 2 Mini is Digidesign's smallest, most affordable Pro Tools LE solution. You get a high quality Digidesign interface, Pro Tools LE software, and extra-bundled software, all for under $300; this is clearly an excellent value for both the beginner and...
expand review experienced producer.
FEATURES
The MBox Mini features the same high-quality audio components that make the MBox the industry standard interface. It features professional quality sound up to 24-bit/48kHz.
The other major feature is the inclusion of the industry standard Pro Tools LE software and all the bundled software. Pro Tools is an easy to learn, powerful program; and your tracks will work with any Pro Tools studio when you are ready to master or go into the studio. Bundled software includes: Xpand Sample Workstation (1000 professional sounds), world famous Bomb Factory plug-ins, Pro Tools Ignition Pack (which includes an instructional DVD, Ableton Live Lite 4, Reason Adapted 3, and much more), and over (30) DigiRack plug-ins!
The price difference between higher priced MBox models is primarily reflected in the number of inputs and outputs. The MBox Mini features (2) 1/4" inputs, (1) XLR mic input, and (2) 1/4" outputs. It does not feature MIDI I/O or SPDIF I/O, the only two major omissions (for MIDI I/O, try one of M-Audio's solutions).
OUR OPINION
As stated before, the MBox 2 Mini is an excellent value. The price makes this accessible to Pro Tool novices, as well as Pro Tools experts that need a portable solution. In our book, Digidesign easily gives you over $300 worth of software; it's like getting the interface for free. -the mgmnt
OVERVIEW
This is your basic, most cost-efficient mixer with one deluxe digital feature. The DM950-USB features dual USB ports. With the USB input, you can mix songs played by your computer. With the USB output you can record your mixes into your computer...
expand review (recording software needed). All file formats are accepted and no drivers are needed. In terms of standard features, you get all the necessary functions of a mixer, plus 2 band eq for each channel, mic input, and easy headphone monitor via mini-fader. As well as being an inexpensive mixer solution, this is a the most inexpensive way to get your dj setup digital ready. -mgmnt
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...
expand review 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. -the mgmnt
OVERVIEW
With Technics prices at an all-time high, the Audio-Technica AT-PL120s offers a secondary, more inexpensive option with features the 1200 does not have. Firstly, you will notice that the AT-PL120s looks very similar to the 1200. Audio-Technica has basically "borrowed" the 1200's...
expand review 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-PL120s retains 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 a built-in pre-amp, -/+ 20% pitch adjustment, 33/45/78 options, and reverse play button; and includes a cartridge, slipmats, a dust cover, and Pyro recording software.
FEATURES
Direct Drive Motor: The ATPL20s 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 ATPL20 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 ATPL20s 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 ATPL20s includes a Audio-Technica ATP-2 cartridge and headshell.
Recording Software: The ATPL20s includes Pyro software that allows you to record vinyl onto your computer.
OUR OPINION
We have tested the ATPL20s for two weeks and it has worked well for both listening and DJing. It is definitely a viable alternative to 1200s and includes some excellent features for recording and listening (not found on the 1200). Having the pre-amp, cartridge, and recording software included also made setup much easier. -the mgmnt
OVERVIEW
The T.90 is Stanton's first entry into the ever-growing USB turntable market. 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...
expand review platter response. Includes cartridge, slipmat, and all necessary cables as well as editing software for digitizing your records.
FEATURES
The T.90 turntable features a quality, high-torque direct drive motor with +/- 8% or 12% pitch range 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.90 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 basic, direct drive turntable with USB capabilities - this is it. The T.90 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. -the mgmnt
OVERVIEW
The AT-LP2D USB Turntable improves upon our bestselling AT-PL50 and AT-LP2Da turntables by replacing the RCA output with a USB port for direct connectivity to your MAC or PC. This means super easy vinyl-to-digital conversions without the need for a costly interface...
expand review or flimsy adapter cables. No interface necessary!
FEATURES
The AT-LP2D comes with everything you need to get started, right out of the box. You get the USB turntable with built-in pre-amp and cartridge, Pyro recording software for PC and Audacity recording software for Mac so you can create MP3s, WAVs, WMAs, and burn CDs from your vinyl. The PYRO Software also remove clicks, pops, and crackles from noisy, old LPs with DeClicker. -the mgmnt
OVERVIEW
Ion's TTUSB turntable is a simple and affordable all-in-one vinyl to digital turntable. It is modeled after Numark's TTUSB (minus the pitch shift) and includes software for both Mac and PC to make digitizing your vinyl very easy. It also includes Audacity...
expand review software for more advanced editing.
FEATURES
The Ion TTUSB is a belt-driven turntable with USB connectivity. Simply plug and play into your Mac or PC with no drivers needed. The turntable features 33 1/3 and 45 RPM play, adjustable anti-skate control for increased stereo balancing, switchable phono/line level RCA outputs, and a handy 1/8" stereo line input (for connecting and digitizing cassettes and other sources). The included EZ Vinyl Converter 2 for PC (EZVC2) and EZ Audio Converter for Mac (EZAC) makes recording and transferring vinyl directly to iTunes extremely easy. Also included is the Audacity software for more advanced audio editing and recording of 78 RPM LPs.
OUR OPINION
This USB turntable package is perfect for anyone looking to capture their vinyl into digital format. The 1/8" input makes this a great value since you can record from other sources (cassettes,etc) as well. Full-sized, pro turntable design is a plus too (though mixing is not recommended due to lack of pitch control).
-the mgmnt
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...
expand review 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. -the mgmnt
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