[andrewrb93]

Hey guys, This is my first post here and I'm a total noob to higher-end audio equipment so forgive me if this isn't the right place for this post. 

For Christmas I was Given a Pro-ject Debut Carbon turntable and a pair of audio engine 2+ speakers. The point of getting the audio engine speakers was that they're powered and eliminate the need for an amp when using this turntable. Obviously I'm sure you all know this and some of you think going with powered speakers instead of an amp was a bad choice but that's not what I'm here for. My problem is that when I use the speakers with the turntable they're very, very quiet. Like, iPhone external speaker quiet. I plugged my phone into them though and they sound great. I was thinking the problem might be that I need a pre-amp with my turntable and that's why they're so quiet? Is this right? Can anyone help me out here?

 

[arcorob]

A turntable is not a line level out device. It requires a phono stage for two reasons:
1) The output from a cartridge is VERY VERY low
2) It needs to comply to the 47k RIAA output standard
 
Easy fix in your case. If your powered speakers are supposed to use Line Level input (no amp) then get one of these (see below). Turntable and ground go the ART Pre and then RCA outs to your speakers.
 
http://www.amazon.com/ART-II-Preamplifier-Output-Switchable/dp/B000AJR482
 
It is actually a damn nice phono stage beating many in the $50 to $250 range ...for an easy $49
 
Also, if you have a new turntable, you may want to view my turntable setup video for beginners
 
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CnskL8Pe6fk&feature=player_embedded

 

[andrewrb93]

Thanks for the help. I'll check these out.