If you’re deeply invested in a large collection of vinyl records, a high-quality player like the Audio Technica AT-LP120XUSB might be worth your money.

The turntable: Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB Below is one such turntable we recommend. That’s not to say you can’t convert your vinyl to a digital format without an integrated USB output, but opting for a turntable built with said output makes the process far easier, and likely at a better quality. Many modern turntables feature both a built-in preamp and a USB output, allowing you to quickly and efficiently convert that musty copy of Steely Dan’s Can’t Buy a Thrill with little effort. Turntables without preamps will rely on a receiver with a phono input or a stand-alone phono preamp. Some turntables come with built-in phono preamps - electronics that boost the typically low signal produced by the needle and cartridge alone before sending it to the receiver or set of powered speakers. There is no catch-all method for digitizing your vinyl collection, and the exact process depends on what kind of equipment you have. Phono preamp or analog-to-digital converterĭerek Malcolm / Digital Trends The hardware From USB turntables and digital audio converters to the various software options and how to use them, we'll take you through all the steps you need for going digital in this article.

Transferring your precious platters from grooves to sound waves is easier than you might think. first pressing you're afraid to take out of its sleeve and protect it from further wear and tear, but you'll also have portable versions of your favorite records, including those you just can't find on streaming services, for you to enjoy anywhere. So why not digitize them? Not only will converting your vinyl records to a digital music format preserve that rare Beatles U.K. The problem is, records are fragile, and crates full of them don't fit in your back pocket. Maybe it's the warm, uncompressed sound spinning off a solid turntable, or the feel of holding a physical piece of art in your hands while the record spins - it's a special experience that has regained much of its glory in a world dominated by digital streaming.

The turntable: Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB.

Amazon vinyl digital download