Turntable system setup integration request

vpacalypse

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Feb 22, 2009
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I am somewhat a novice when it comes to all things turntables although I've meaning to take the dive for a while now.

At present, the system in which I wish to integrate the turntable to consists of my PC attached to Kef egg speakers (alongside a monitor audio subwoofer attached to the kef eggs via one of the ports on the rear).

I am looking to purchase either one of the rega planar 1 or 3 models alongside the cambridge audio duo pre-amp. Can anyone run me through the procedure of how this would be set up or whether if at all possible.

Relevant Links (Thanks in advance).

http://uk.kef.com/egg

https://www.cambridgeaudio.com/gbr/en/products/hi-fi/phono-preamp/duo

http://www.rega.co.uk/planar-3-2016.html

http://www.rega.co.uk/planar-3-2016.html
 
I’m swerving the setup question slightly by asking this:- why are you considering a turntable?

The reason I ask is that I think the benefits come from playing treasured LPs through a traditional stereo system. So you’d need an amplifier with a phono stage, unless funds permit the preamp and a proper amp, PLUS proper stereo speakers, not KEF Eggs hanging off a PC.

If you have an auxiliary/line level input on your PC sound card it might function, but I can’t see the point!
 

Gray

Well-known member
It's well worth considering what nopiano has said in the previous post, especially if you're starting a vinyl collection from scratch.

You'd really need to justify the high cost of todays vinyl with a system that would allow you to appreciate it.

Having said that, by all accounts your Kef Eggs are capable speakers and if you're set on a turntable, here's a suggestion:

This version of the P1 has a built-in preamp:

http://cpc.farnell.com/pro-signal/psg00806/3-5mm-jack-to-2x-phono-plugs-1m/dp/AV14269?st=rca%20to%203.5mm%20lead%20ofc

(The lead's available in various lengths) IMPORTANT NOTE: If you do get one of these leads, confirm channel identification. Plug the 3.5mm plug into the Kefs, then just the RED RCA plug into the TT and confirm sound only from RIGHT speaker. I've had 2 of these leads where the RCA plugs have been incorrectly colour coded - easy enough to mark them correctly yourself, but without first checking, there's the potential to forever be listening with your channels reversed.

Your subwoofer still connects to the Kefs sub out of course.

Physically isolate TT from speakers (don't have them both on the same surface such as a desk)

By doing the above the TT plays through the Kefs / sub and your computer has nothing to do with it.

If you still want to hear the computer through the Kefs, you can swap plugs into the Kefs. Or, assuming its output is also on a 3.5mm plug, for convenience, include a switch to change sources.
 

priam

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Oct 26, 2016
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+1 for No Piano.

I've heard that the Cambridge Audio isn't a good match for Rega, too bright.
See if your budget allows for Rega Fono MKIII or just the A2D. If you're going for the Planar 1 then stick to the basics and get the A2D
 

vpacalypse

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Feb 22, 2009
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Point noted and after contemplation I have decided against venturing into turntables as the high cost wouldn't justify the usage. For now my my mind has turned to upgrading my modest pc system (high usage).

I bought an arcam subwoofer yesterday to upgrade from the monitor audio subwoofer I have attached to the kef eggs. (Paid £200 from ebay 20% offer they had running - links below).

https://www.vickershifi.com/products/arcssub/arcam-solo-muso-sub-300w-active-subwoofer

https://www.whathifi.com/monitor-audio/vector-vw-8/review

I have a meridian explorer 2 dac (just for headphone use). Though, I am thinking the next natural progression for my system would be a dedicated DAC such as arcam irDAC-II. My question here would be whether this is a worthwhile pursuit as the kef eggs already have a pre-amp and dac (for usb input). Would it override the kef DAC or the kef just downgrade it back down? Please advise.

https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Arcam-irDAC-II-USB-DAC-Clearance-sale-NEW/282928450074?hash=item41dfd98a1a:g:WNEAAOSwns1a1a4~

& how would such an integration work in terms of pc and possible in future a TV (via optical input I think). Thanks for the all help.
 

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