[LAU] Simple hardware

[Adam]

cdr wrote:
> i had a Behringer UCA-202 , Phono Pre version
>
> its ADC clipped on almost all my records, and there is no gain control, on either it or my turntable. (most of my records are DNB/House 12"s cut fairly hot). so it was pretty much useless
[...]
> i much prefer the ART Tech pre, in a tank-style case, with a gain pot, roughly +-12dB range, and a Red LED to indicate clipping.

Thanks for your suggestions, cdr!  Would you have any idea how much 
of that distortion was caused by the phono preamp section, and how 
much by the ADC stage?  In my case, I already have a consumer-grade 
receiver that includes a phono preamp (MM, not MC).

>> the 25' of audio cables (RCA plugs) necessary to connect my "stereo
>> system" to my computer, unless rearranging my entire room
> for something like archival recording, im not sure i'd want 25' of cable running an analog signal.

These are line-level signals here; the turntable is right next to 
the receiver with its phono preamp.  I'm planning on moving the 
cassette deck closer while digitizing, but because of my room layout 
moving the receiver and turntable much closer would take 
considerable effort.

> at the very least it increases the likelihood gear is plugged into different outlets, and potential ground-loops.

That's a good point.  I can temporarily plug my "stereo system" into 
my computer system's UPS by using a 120V extension cord, which 
should eliminate (or at least minimize) ground loops.

> are you using balanced XLR? s/PDIF?

This is a consumer-grade system, using unbalanced RCA connectors.  
Everything except the short distance from the turntable to the 
receiver is a line-level signal, if that matters.

Thanks again for your carefully thought-out and comprehensive replies!

Adam