# Low input vinyl timecode problem **URL:** \ **Category:** General Discussion\ **Created:** [June 18, 2017, 1:22pm UTC](https://forum.djtechtools.com/t/low-input-vinyl-timecode-problem/76158 "2017-06-18T13:22:13Z")\ **Posts on this page:** 5\ **Page:** 1
**Author:** ![Magnorage](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/m/97f17d/32.png) [@Magnorage](https://forum.djtechtools.com/u/Magnorage)\ **Post date:** [June 18, 2017, 1:22pm UTC](https://forum.djtechtools.com/t/low-input-vinyl-timecode-problem/76158/1 "2017-06-18T13:22:13Z")
**Low input vinyl timecode problem** Hey, guys! In my current set-up I’ve got a Traktor Z2 and an Audio teknica LP120 running with a timecode vinyl running. I keep getting a red “low input”-signal flashing when I try to calibrate my record. this happens basicly everytime I open up Traktor. Earlier, what I’ve done is brush my fingers on the needle and brush the dust of off the needle in order to get a cleaner signal and then everything works fine. However, now it doesn’t seem to work. The audio is sounds very distorted and above the deck inside the software it says “Low Input”. What am I doing wrong? ![Screen Shot 2017-06-18 at 15.12.07.jpg](https://us1.discourse-cdn.com/flex001/uploads/techtools/original/3X/1/c/1c3cbf8dbbd8cff4c57086c80dfe9d362521d179.jpeg) In case this is relevant: The turntable is plugged into line. (not phono) The turntable itself is set to line. (not phono) I have not used the metal screw thing to “ground” the signal or whatever. I don’t know what that’s for. I’m using the cartage that came with the turntable. ---
**Author:** ![deevey](https://sea1.discourse-cdn.com/flex001/user_avatar/forum.djtechtools.com/deevey/32/10758_2.png) [@deevey](https://forum.djtechtools.com/u/deevey)\ **Post date:** [June 18, 2017, 10:36pm UTC](https://forum.djtechtools.com/t/low-input-vinyl-timecode-problem/76158/2 "2017-06-18T22:36:26Z")
> [@](#): > > I have not used the metal screw thing to “ground” the signal or whatever. I don’t know what that’s for. 1. Screw it to GND screws on the mixer - they ARE important (removal of buzzing and ground hum) - see it that works. 2. After that try set the Turntables to Phono, Plug them into Phono - see if things improve. 3. Test the Turntable with some real (non-timecode) vinyl - does it seem low or distorted ? If yes, you might need a new stylus or cart. I’m sure someone else will chime in with some more suggestions ---
**Author:** ![Karlos\_Santos](https://sea1.discourse-cdn.com/flex001/user_avatar/forum.djtechtools.com/karlos_santos/32/13263_2.png) [@Karlos\_Santos](https://forum.djtechtools.com/u/Karlos_Santos)\ **Post date:** [June 18, 2017, 10:49pm UTC](https://forum.djtechtools.com/t/low-input-vinyl-timecode-problem/76158/3 "2017-06-18T22:49:50Z")
> [@Magnorage](#): > > I’ve done is brush my fingers on the needle and brush the dust of off the needle Stop doing that. > [@Magnorage](#): > > What am I doing wrong? Everything. Switch the turntable to phono. Connect to phono on the Z2. Get a brush for your needles and clean your records A LOT. Also recalibrate often. ---
**Author:** ![ImNoDJ](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/i/977dab/32.png) [@ImNoDJ](https://forum.djtechtools.com/u/ImNoDJ)\ **Post date:** [June 19, 2017, 12:46am UTC](https://forum.djtechtools.com/t/low-input-vinyl-timecode-problem/76158/4 "2017-06-19T00:46:25Z")
> [@Karlos\_Santos](#): > > Stop doing that. > > Everything. > > Switch the turntable to phono. Connect to phono on the Z2. > > Get a brush for your needles and clean your records A LOT. > Also recalibrate often. OP could have avoided all of this if they spent ten minutes reading the manual and quickstart guide. ---
**Author:** ![the\_bastet](https://sea1.discourse-cdn.com/flex001/user_avatar/forum.djtechtools.com/the_bastet/32/56295_2.png) [@the\_bastet](https://forum.djtechtools.com/u/the_bastet)\ **Post date:** [June 19, 2017, 1:11am UTC](https://forum.djtechtools.com/t/low-input-vinyl-timecode-problem/76158/5 "2017-06-19T01:11:39Z")
Always use a stylii brush for your needles. Keep your timecode records clean (Get a record brush or pad) Switch the ATLP120 to Phono and plug into phono channels.