Problem setting turntable record levels

[StuS]

Just got a new usb turntable, can record and monitor just fine, but can't manually set record levels. Levels controls are inactive, and when I rollover them, I get a message that says "cannot control input level, use system mixer". When I open the Audio Devices utility, there's no mixer, and none of the settings there have any effect. Where is the mac OS 10.5.8 system mixer? Can't seem to find an answer to this online, just one step away from recording... TIA

[StuS]

Also, tried the settings on this page and it still didn't help.

http://wiki.audacityteam.org/wiki/Mixer ... Issues#osx

[billw58]

Where is the mac OS 10.5.8 system mixer?

Windows-centric message

You want to go to Apple menu > System Preferences, then the Sound panel, Input tab. But save yourself the trouble - there is no input volume control for USB devices. The analog to digital conversion is done inside the USB interface device (in your case, the USB turntable), so there is no chance to adjust the level after that.

I use a Behringer UFO-202 to connect my standard turntable to my Mac. I accept that my peak recording level will be in the range of -12 dB to -9 dB. As long as your recording levels are not too high, and not below -15 dB, you should be good. Just do Click Removal then Amplify to bring the final level up to near 0 dB before you export.

Does the turntable have a volume control anywhere on it? I've heard tell that they can sometimes be found on the bottom.

BTW, are you really using Audacity 1.2? You owe it to yourself to upgrade to 1.3.12.

http://audacityteam.org/download/beta_mac

-- Bill

[StuS]

Hey Bill,

Thanks, this was driving me crazy. After playing with it today, so far so good, haven't had any clipping issues with the turntable doing the conversion, will keep my fingers crossed.

BTW, I do have 1.3.12, just downloaded it today with the new turntable.

[billw58]

BTW, I do have 1.3.12, just downloaded it today with the new turntable.

You downloaded a turntable? Where can I do that?

-- Bill