Connecting your turntable to your LS Wireless Speakers is straightforward, but following a few key steps is important to get the best sound quality. For those looking to upgrade their setup, consider exploring our LS wireless speaker range, designed to complement the richness of vinyl playback.
What You Need to Know About Turntables and LS Wireless Speakers
Before diving into the connection process, it’s essential to understand the basic requirements:
Turntable Output
Turntables can have either a “Line” or a “Phono” output. A “Line” output indicates the presence of a built-in phono preamp, which amplifies the signal to the level required by most speakers. If your turntable has a “Phono” output, you’ll need an external phono preamp to boost the signal before connecting it to your speakers.
LS Wireless Speakers Compatibility
KEF’s LS wireless Speakers are designed with versatility, allowing easy integration with various audio sources, including turntables. Frank Eschholz, EU Product Specialist, says, "The LS Wireless Speakers offer multiple input options, including RCA or 3.5mm and digital, making them ideal for connecting with a wide range of turntables."
Connection Cables
The quality of your cables can affect sound quality. For analogue connections, use high-quality RCA or 3.5mm cables. Ensure your turntable supports digital output via optical or coaxial cables for digital connections.
For a deeper understanding of the types of speakers available and their impact on sound quality, check out our essential guide to wireless HiFi speakers.
How to Connect a Turntable to Your LS Wireless Speakers
Connecting a turntable to your LS Wireless Speakers involves a few simple steps. Here’s a straightforward guide to ensure you set it up correctly:
Step 1: Determine if You Need a Phono Pre-Amp
Most turntables require an additional phono pre-amp. This small device amplifies the low signal from the turntable’s magnetic cartridge to a level suitable for standard audio inputs.
A quick note: The need for a phono pre-amp is not unique to KEF’s LS Wireless speakers; it’s a common requirement for many turntables.
Step 2: Identify Your Cartridge Type
Check whether your turntable’s cartridge is MM (Moving Magnet) or MC (Moving Coil). Once you know, it will be time to set the Phono Pre-Amp.
Switch your phono pre-amp to the correct setting (MM or MC) based on your cartridge type.
Tip: If unsure of your cartridge type, test both settings at a low volume. The correct setting will produce a clear sound, while the wrong one will sound distorted.
Step 3: Connect the Turntable to Your LS Wireless Speakers
Once your phono pre-amp is connected to the turntable, use a pair of RCA cables or a 3.5mm cable (with an adaptor if necessary) to connect the pre-amp to your LS Wireless speakers.
Then, select the AUX input on your LS Wireless speakers, and you’re ready to enjoy your vinyl records.
Step 4: Understanding Connectors
RCA and 3.5mm connectors effectively transmit audio signals using the same cable type. The choice between them typically depends on the available space on the speaker’s terminal panel.
Key Point: There’s virtually no difference in sound quality between these two connector types at the voltages and frequencies involved in audio playback.
By following these steps, you can easily connect your turntable to your LS Wireless Speakers and enjoy the rich, authentic sound of your vinyl records.
Connecting an External DAC: What You Need to Know
You might be wondering if you can connect an external DAC (Digital-to-Analogue Converter) to the analogue inputs on your LS Wireless speakers. The short answer is yes, you can — but you might not need to, and in some cases, you might not want to.
Why an External DAC Might Not Be Necessary
KEF’s LS Wireless speakers are designed with a seamless two-channel performance in mind, achieved through digital interspeaker transmission. The Primary and Secondary speakers in your setup come equipped with their own DAC, DSP (Digital Signal Processor), and amplifiers.
This means that:
- The Secondary speaker connects to the Primary speaker via a digital cable (RJ45) or wirelessly through an internal network, ensuring optimal synchronisation.
- Any analogue source you connect—whether it’s a turntable, CD player, cassette deck, or an external DAC—is converted to digital through KEF's onboard, audiophile-grade ADC (Analogue-to-Digital Converter). This conversion is crucial for the customised DSP to perform at its best, maintaining a high-resolution connection between the speakers. The built-in DAC works as an internal crossover for the mid-bass driver and the tweeter, thus it can´t be bypassed.
Technical Specs and Performance Considerations
- The LS50 Wireless II and LS60 Wireless speakers support a resolution of 192kHz/24-bit, while the LSX II offers 96kHz/24-bit. Both speaker models handle file resolutions up to 384kHz/24-bit.
- Adding an external DAC introduces another link in the audio chain, potentially compromising performance—even if the DAC is of high quality. While the difference might be subtle, it’s something to consider.
Experimenting with Your Setup
KEF encourages experimentation with your setup to find what sounds best. Whether you're adjusting connections or optimising speaker placement, it's worth trying different configurations. Remember to keep the volume low while experimenting to avoid potential damage.
What if my turntable only has a Phono output?
You will need an external phono preamp to amplify the signal to a level that your LS Wireless Speakers can handle. This is a common requirement for many high-quality turntables, designed to be paired with external components for better sound control.
Can I use a digital connection with my turntable?
If your turntable supports digital output, you can connect it to the LS Wireless Speakers using an optical or coaxial cable. This method can provide a cleaner signal path and reduce interference, resulting in high-fidelity sound.
How can I ensure the best turntable and speaker setup?
For optimal performance, choose a turntable and speakers that complement each other. KEF’s LS Wireless Speakers are designed to bring out the best in vinyl playback, offering detailed sound reproduction and a wide soundstage. Pairing them with a quality turntable and preamp will provide an immersive listening experience.
To further refine your setup, explore the differences between active and passive HiFi speakers and how each type can influence your audio system's performance.
Connecting your turntable to your LS Wireless Speakers unlocks the full potential of your vinyl records, delivering a rich and authentic listening experience. By following the steps outlined in this guide and taking advantage of expert tips, you can create an elegant and functional setup. For those looking to elevate their audio experience, don’t miss our guide to wireless HiFi speakers, which covers everything from speaker selection to placement tips.
If you’re considering an upgrade, explore our full range of LS Wireless speakers to find the perfect match for your turntable.
