Numark PT01 USB

Play records on the go and digitise them directly on your computer: the Numark PT-01-USB combines a portable turntable with USB recording and an integrated speaker. You can power it using a mains adapter or six D batteries, available separately, and listen to vinyl without additional equipment. The belt drive supports 33⅓, 45 and 78 rpm.

To archive your records, connect the turntable to a PC or Mac via USB. The USB connection works without special drivers; the supplied EZ Vinyl Converter 2 software lets you split recordings into individual tracks and transfer them to iTunes. The software can retrieve track information from the Gracenote MusicID database. Recordings can be saved as MP3 or WAV files and then, for example, transferred to CD.

Audacity is also included for editing and post-processing. You can use it to trim recordings and reduce unwanted noise. The PT-01-USB can also be used without a computer: a phono line output connects it to a stereo system, amplifier or other line inputs. An AUX input lets you pass through another audio source.

Playback is through the built-in speaker or headphones. Mini-jack and standard jack connections are provided for this purpose. The pitch control adjusts the playback speed by ±10 per cent. Records up to 12 inches can be played; a 45 rpm adapter and the cartridge system are included. The dust cover with integrated carry handle makes transport easier.

With battery power, a speaker, three speeds and USB digitisation, the turntable is suitable for listening on the go and transferring existing vinyl collections. It is also suitable for a simple home audio setup if you want to connect the phono output to a system or listen with headphones.