In the process of starting to convert my vinyl into digital to add to my track collection for use in Traktor, using the following to capture the audio:
Turntable to Mixer to iMac 10.6.8 using Audacity 1.3.14
(This iMac is one that has an audio line-port so from that point of view it is simple. Throughout when I refer to playback volume its the volume achieved by the computers built-in speakers not use of amplifier and speakers at this stage)
I’m happy with the sound I’ve captured but when I compare it to WAV files I’ve purchased from places such as Junodownload the playback volume isn’t comparable at the high end ie. the same max level of sound isn’t achieved. I tried increasing the master volume on the mixer and lower the input volume and vice versa but everything I did made no difference as once I had adjusted to ensure no track clipping the end result was pretty much the same. When I export these files and add them to Traktor then play them the “Gain” adjusts to something like +4.6dB, I’ve seen some of my downloaded tracks adjust slightly but that seems like a big adjustment, I’m not sure if that makes a difference really but it seems unusual.
I’ve looked at some other threads for ideas, I tried amplifying the captured track but at max volume the track was loud but sore on the ears whereas the WAVs I’ve downloaded where just as loud but not sore to listen to (describing a feeling here but I think most people will know what I mean, maybe sore isn’t the correct word more like uncomfortable). I probably amplified it too much but I was just guessing as a trial.
Just looking for some more/different ideas or more importantly some direction as to how I can achieve the best possible sound before I start to work through my collection so far I’ve only done about 8 tracks from different 12" and EPs to get an idea, just don’t want to waste time pursuing the incorrect route. I don’t mind spending time to achieve the best results just not sure where to start.
Any thought and ideas will be gratefully received - thanks
