Art USB Phono Plus
- RIAA phono preamp with low cut filter
- USB, optical TOSlink and S/PDIF coax digital connections
- 16 bit, 44.1 kHz or 48 KHz conversion
- Windows and Mac support listed
- All-aluminum case, front gain control
- 2 year warranty
Updated 2 days ago · Based on the Amazon listing and published specifications, not hands-on testing.
A phono preamp that also works as a USB audio interface, aimed at digitizing a record collection. It is bulky, and software support is listed only for older systems.
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ASIN: B000BBGCCICategory: Phono Preamps
Overview
ART builds the USB Phono Plus to take a turntable signal, apply RIAA equalization and send it to a computer over USB. Front-panel gain and a signal and clipping indicator help set levels before recording.
Choose it for vinyl transfer with a gain control, a low cut filter and optical and coax digital paths in one box. The limit is the age of the supported systems named in the description, so check driver support for a current computer.
Who it's for
A desk with a turntable and a computer, plus time to record and trim tracks, is the intended use. Someone with a very recent computer should check the supported operating system list, which stops at older releases.
Pros and cons
- Phono preamp and audio interface in one
- Low cut filter for record rumble
- Front gain and clipping indicator
- Digital in and out connections
- Older operating systems listed
- Large for a desktop box
- Software bundled is one title
- Sample rate stops at 48 KHz
Performance notes
The RIAA stage restores the record curve, the low cut filter trims rumble, and the converter turns the signal into digital data for the computer. Setting gain by watching the clipping light stops distortion from entering the recording. Final quality also depends on the cartridge and record condition.
Where it stands among phono preamps
- #4 most-searched brand and model of the 5 phono preamps lines we track (by search demand, not sales).
From the specs of the 8 phono preamps we list; not a test result.
Specifications
| Dimensions & fit | |
|---|---|
| Item dimensions | 11.4"D x 11.7"W x 4.7"H |
| Item weight | 0.6 kg |
| Compatibility & installation | |
| Connectivity technology | USB |
| Compatible devices | Laptop, Personal Computer |
| Included components | |
| Included Components | RCA Input, USB Port |
| Warranty & support | |
| Warranty Description | 2-year warranty. |
| Supported software | Sound Saver Express |
| Other details | |
| Number of Channels | 2 |
| Audio input | USB, Optical, Coaxial |
| Maximum sample rate | 48 KHz |
Closest rivals on specs
AIYIMA T3 PRO MM/MC Phono Preamp RIAA Equalization for Turntable/Vinyl Record Player/Home- Item Weight 1.32 vs 1.76 pounds (-25%)
Schiit Skoll F XLR Balanced and RCA Single-Ended- Item Weight 1.32 vs 2 pounds (-34%)
Frequently asked questions
How do you set levels on the ART USB Phono Plus?
Use the front-mounted gain control and the signal and clipping indicator, which are there to help optimize different analog sources.
Which operating systems does the ART USB Phono Plus list?
The description names Mac OS9.1 and OS X computers with native USB support, and Windows 98SE, ME, 2000, XP, Vista and 7.
Is the USB Phono Plus only a phono preamp?
No. It is also an audio interface, with USB, optical TOSlink and S/PDIF coax digital connections.