Set up the turntable to record onto your computer in a similar way to how you would set up the turntable to record LPs onto cassette tape. The computer soundcard substitutes for the cassette deck. The following diagram is adapted from one supplied with the Creative SoundBlaster Live! Value Card.
1. Connect the turntable to the phono input of your stereo amplifier
2. Connect the tape output or line output of your stereo amplifier to the line input of your sound card. See below for details of a suitable connecting cable.
NOTE: Do NOT connect the cable to the microphone input of your soundcard. It is too sensitive and will result in loud distorted sound.
Additionally, soundcard microphone inputs are often only capable of recording a mono
signal.
NOTE: You cannot connect your turntable directly to the soundcard as the signal is not strong enough. If you are not able to connect your turntable via your main stereo amplifier, you could purchase a
Stereo Cartridge Phono Preamp. This will match the signal levels and
perform the RIAA equalisation required for LPs. Phono preamps vary in cost from as low as $US30 to
several hundred dollars for a connoisseur 'Hi-Fi' version.
If you do not have a suitable cable to connect your stereo amplifier to your soundcard, you can purchase one from Tandy / Radio Shack or a similar electronic store. The exact type of cable you need depends on the type of connectors you have on your stereo and soundcard. Check your systems' manuals for details. The cables are often the same as those sold for connecting a portable CD player to a stereo system.
Many domestic stereo systems use RCA Phono sockets for connections. Most home computer soundcards have a line-in socket that accepts a 1/8" stereo mini-jack. If your system fits this description, you will need a cable that has two RCA plugs (one for each stereo channel) at one end to connect to your stereo, and a 1/8" stereo mini-jack at the other to plug in to the soundcard, as shown below.
For example, the Radio Shack catalog at www.radioshack.com has a cable of this type listed as Model 42-2551 6' Gold Series Y-Adapter Audio Cable.
NOTE: Ensure that the mini-jack on the cable is a stereo mini-jack. You can tell by looking for the two black bands as shown. Mono mini-jacks only have one of these bands.