The vinyl revival has rekindled interest in turntables and the desire to integrate them into modern audio systems. Many contemporary audio devices, such as speakers, soundbars, and receivers, come equipped with auxiliary (AUX) inputs. These inputs are typically used for connecting devices like smartphones, tablets, or laptops. But can you use an auxiliary input to hook up a turntable? In this article, we’ll delve into the compatibility, challenges, and potential solutions when connecting a turntable to an AUX input.
Understanding Turntable Outputs
Before we explore the possibility of connecting a turntable to an auxiliary input, it’s essential to understand the outputs that most turntables offer. Traditional turntables, particularly those designed for playing vinyl records, typically have one of the following types of outputs:
- Phono Output: This is the most common output on turntables specifically designed for vinyl playback. Phono outputs produce a low-level, unamplified signal that requires further amplification to be audible through speakers. The output level from a phono output is lower than what an AUX input expects.
- Line Output: Some modern turntables, often referred to as “turntables with a built-in preamp” or “line-level turntables,” come equipped with a line-level output. Line-level outputs produce a signal that is at the same level as what an AUX input expects, making them compatible with a wider range of devices.
Challenges When Using AUX Input with Turntables
If your turntable has a line-level output, connecting it to an AUX input is straightforward. However, when dealing with a traditional turntable with a phono output, several challenges arise:
- Inadequate Amplification: AUX inputs are designed to receive line-level signals, which are much stronger than the low-level signal produced by a phono cartridge. Without proper amplification, the resulting sound will be barely audible or distorted.
- Incorrect Equalization: Vinyl records are encoded with specific equalization curves, such as the RIAA curve, which need to be applied during playback to achieve accurate sound reproduction. AUX inputs typically do not include the necessary phono preamp or equalization, which can result in distorted and unbalanced sound.
- Impedance Mismatch: The impedance of a phono cartridge is different from what an AUX input expects. This impedance mismatch can lead to sound quality issues and potentially damage the cartridge or AUX input.
Solutions for Connecting a Turntable to an AUX Input
While connecting a traditional turntable to an AUX input can be challenging, it’s not impossible. Here are some solutions to consider:
- External Phono Preamp: The most common solution is to use an external phono preamplifier (phono stage) between the turntable and the AUX input. A phono preamp amplifies the low-level phono signal and applies the necessary equalization. These preamps are readily available and come in various price ranges, offering improved sound quality and compatibility.
- Turntable with Built-in Preamp: Consider upgrading to a turntable with a built-in preamp or line-level output. This eliminates the need for an external phono preamp and simplifies the connection to an AUX input.
- Receiver with Phono Input: If you have a receiver or amplifier with a dedicated phono input, it will include the necessary preamplification and equalization for a turntable. This allows you to connect your turntable directly to the receiver, bypassing the need for an external preamp.
Conclusion
While it’s technically possible to connect a turntable to an AUX input, it’s crucial to address the inherent challenges, especially when dealing with traditional turntables with phono outputs. The use of an external phono preamp is the most common and effective solution, ensuring proper amplification and equalization for vinyl playback. Alternatively, upgrading to a turntable with a built-in preamp or using a receiver with a dedicated phono input simplifies the process and enhances the listening experience. With the right equipment and setup, you can enjoy the warm, analog sound of vinyl records through an AUX input.