Hi folks!
I want to integrate my Phono Signal into a digital Stereo chain without PC by adding an ADC before or as part of the DSP-DAC stage.
So, in order to not distract the "Integrating a turntable into a digital system" thread, I'm starting this thread to dedicate it to my own project

A short recap of the situation and project:
- 3-Way or 4-Way active Speakersystem with DSP x-over.
- DSP has only digital Inputs: coax S/P-DIF, Toslink, bluetooth, USB
- I do like to listen to LP records occationally
- Looking for an ADC appropriate for Phono Preamp Output AD conversion
- Budget is up to 200€ for ADC box (or board).
- PC is optional signal source, it is not and will not become integral part of the signal chain
I have learned that input signal range is a potentially critical thing, but in light of <60dB dynamic range I wonder how much to invest and which technology to use in order to not "damage" the phono signal.
As a first step I have bought a PCM1804 based ADC board from Audiophonics but have no idea if this thing "fits the bill" of requirements for a decent phono ADC:
- Inputs are cinch unbalanced
- Input OPAs are 5532s, the ADC is the old TI PCM1804
- 24.576MHz clock generator is on board for up to 24/192 (I will use 24/96)
- ADC Outputs are coax S/P-DIF and Toslink, no USB
- The board's back side shows (marked) I²S solder bumps (not mentioned in the data sheet)
- The board can run as clock master or clock slave
So please give any feedback
- How do you approach the Phono ADC case?
- Which approach should I take?
- Where are pit falls?
- Does my integration idea (picture above) make sense?
- Which factors do I need to observe/optimise for best phono-ADCing quality?
- Is there a viable chance to take advantage of the DSP internal 24.576MHz clock or even its I²S?
- Which ADC or ADC board do you consider more/most appropriate for phono ADCing and why?
Thanks and Regards,
Winfried
I want to integrate my Phono Signal into a digital Stereo chain without PC by adding an ADC before or as part of the DSP-DAC stage.
So, in order to not distract the "Integrating a turntable into a digital system" thread, I'm starting this thread to dedicate it to my own project
A short recap of the situation and project:
- 3-Way or 4-Way active Speakersystem with DSP x-over.
- DSP has only digital Inputs: coax S/P-DIF, Toslink, bluetooth, USB
- I do like to listen to LP records occationally
- Looking for an ADC appropriate for Phono Preamp Output AD conversion
- Budget is up to 200€ for ADC box (or board).
- PC is optional signal source, it is not and will not become integral part of the signal chain
I have learned that input signal range is a potentially critical thing, but in light of <60dB dynamic range I wonder how much to invest and which technology to use in order to not "damage" the phono signal.
As a first step I have bought a PCM1804 based ADC board from Audiophonics but have no idea if this thing "fits the bill" of requirements for a decent phono ADC:
- Inputs are cinch unbalanced
- Input OPAs are 5532s, the ADC is the old TI PCM1804
- 24.576MHz clock generator is on board for up to 24/192 (I will use 24/96)
- ADC Outputs are coax S/P-DIF and Toslink, no USB
- The board's back side shows (marked) I²S solder bumps (not mentioned in the data sheet)
- The board can run as clock master or clock slave
So please give any feedback
- How do you approach the Phono ADC case?
- Which approach should I take?
- Where are pit falls?
- Does my integration idea (picture above) make sense?
- Which factors do I need to observe/optimise for best phono-ADCing quality?
- Is there a viable chance to take advantage of the DSP internal 24.576MHz clock or even its I²S?
- Which ADC or ADC board do you consider more/most appropriate for phono ADCing and why?
Thanks and Regards,
Winfried
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