Using USB on MacBook Pro for audio input

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Level 1

5 points

Using USB on MacBook Pro for audio input

I have a turntable that outputs audio via USB for conversion from LPs to digital sound on my MacBook. It comes with Audacity software for control of the process. When I use my daughter's 5 year old Gateway I am presented, within Audacity, with a drop down of audio input choices - including the USB ports. When I try to use my MacBook the only option for audio input is the Microphone jack.

I'm pretty sure that I should be able to use the USB port for audio input but am unsure how to make it happen. I'm comfortable using GarageBand if the Audacity software is the problem.

Can anyone help me with this?

MacBook Pro

Posted on Dec 30, 2013 10:25 AM

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Answer 1

Top-ranking reply

angelofarina

Level 1

42 points

Dec 30, 2013 10:38 AM in response to Kappy

The previous answer is CRAP, your turntable already provides you digital audio over USB.

You just have to select USB Audio as the default audio input.

Under OSX this is not done inside Audacity, as is done under Windows. It must be done on the System Preferences, Audio.

There you will be able to select the USB interface as your default sound input.

After this, launch Audacity, and there you will see that the USB audio is now the only available option...

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Answer 2

Kappy

Level 10

362,017 points

Dec 30, 2013 10:29 AM in response to Springg

On the Mac you need an adaptor to go from USB to Mic jack such as iMic | The original USB audio adapter by Griffin Technology | Griffin ...

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Answer 3

Springg Author

Level 1

5 points

Dec 30, 2013 11:23 AM in response to angelofarina

Thanks to both you and Kappy for the very quick reply. Yes, the turntable already has the USB plug to go into the USB port. Problem - I had gone to system preferences/audio and the only input device available (the only one that appears anywhere) is the microphone.

I'm doing this WITHOUT the turntable plugged in however so that could be it. I will check this and be back if it doesn't work.

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Answer 4

Dec 30, 2013 11:31 AM in response to Springg

Of course, if the turntable is not plugged to your USB port and powered, the only available input is the microphone!

The same is for the line input port (minijack). It only appears available when something is plugged in the minijack port...

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