[starkiller]

Since I sometimes run across cool vinyl I was wondering if I can get a USB turntable to hook up to my computer and play discs to hear if they play ok and sound good.

[Mariusz]

Sure
I've one that is used for archiving.
It is cheap tho. But it has build in phono and speakers for monitoring the sound. It is also portable - runs on batteries ...... just in case you were stock on deserted vinly island without your iPod. 

[starkiller]

so, it just runs via usb into my computer and voila', music??

[Mariusz]

Kind of....... it comes with software for PC and Mac that needs to be installed.
You can record it almost instantly to your iTunes library. It (software) will also try to find the art-work and other info ( not always successful ).

It also has stereo analog out, so you can connect it on the fly to any stereo rig.
(also volume, gain and treble controls)

 

[starkiller]

Is one brand any better then another?  I need and want cheap as this will be a money making thing for me until I can find a job, plus, I love vinyl

[Lyndon]

Starkiller,
I would tell you to step up a little more.
What about that TT that was like an AR clone?  Akai, Aiwa? I don't know, but something that is a little better for the
playback.
Then, get this gizmo from Amazon, and I think your transfer would be a mite better.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000KW2YEI/ref=ord_cart_shr?ie=UTF8&m=ATVPDKIKX0DER

Lyndon

[starkiller]

Honestly i do not care about the transfer, just want to be able to ascertain whether a lp is fit to be sold or not.  No scratches, low surface noise etc...i can look at an lp and say it looks fine but of course you don't know till you actually play it and I do not have a preamp with phono in.

[starkiller]

so far it looks like sony, ion, numark and memorex are the main players....

[Mariusz]

Get the cheapest one with features you NEED.
Many choices out there. I bought my on sell at the guitar center.
Info here: http://www.ionaudio.com/iptusb

[Lyndon]

With the previous mentioned attachment, this would run you around $250.
http://www.amazon.com/Audio-Technica-AT-PL120-Professional-Direct-Drive-Turntable/dp/B00012EYNG/ref=cm_cr_pr_product_top

Or this version,
http://tinyurl.com/2cybeyn

[starkiller]

It just occurred to me, can't i just buy a cheap TT and a cheap rat shack preamp and be done??  especially since all i am concerned with is whether the lp is ok?

[Mariusz]

But why?
Those USB tables with speakers can be had for way under $99.
Look on eBey and Craigslist for great deals. (50% off is not unusual)
  

[starkiller]

hmm, i dont want or need speakers so that means maybe i can get one even cheaper

[Mariusz]

Sorry..... With build-in speaker(s).

[Delta Wave]

Dear god no! Life is too short to own a plastic turntable! Put your cash to a decent used table and a phono preamp and just run it in to your aux input on your pc.