turntable setup with era 300

What is “not right” about the sound?  Is the volume low, the bass emphasized, and the highs missing?  If so, you need to switch the pre-amp to Line instead of Phone. 

I have multiple speakers throughout the apartment and they all sound distorted. I have it switched to Line but its like the backing

vocals are at a different level than the music and main vocals. Not sure if that makes sense 

Hi purchased the Pro-Ject T1 and had it with Line-in to the Era 1. It took a bunch of trouble shooting until it was even pushing sound, then working with all the settings in the old app and switching the functions on the turntable until it worked. Then I was kind of happy with it but did not like a few functions that were missing. So then I purchased a Victrola. No need for Line-in. EASY connection to my SONOS system. Sounds like old school record player (LOVE IT). Simi Automatic (missing from the Pro-Ject. I can place it anywhere in my home and works perfect. Volume control on the Victrola turntable is really cool. I still have my project and have it and my Era set up in our guest bedroom for quests to use if they would like. 

Merman88

I bought the Project T1 as suggested by Sonos (included in a package with the Five actually)

It’s been a struggle to get the system behaving itself, I do want to use the line-in because thats why I didnt buy the bluetooth option. It should offer better quality audio via cable and that is the point of having Vinyl in the first place. The most noticeable problem is the left and right channels are reversed (no the cables aren’t crossed) its a small problem but annoying because it’s makes me think ‘what else is wrong’ 

I refuse to buy another TT, they should sort it out. I’ve started another conversation and to date no one can fix it…..

I purchased the Victrola because it doesn’t use the line in or Bluetooth (unless you want to). It works over the WiFi, same as all the other SONOS products I have. You can use it via Bluetooth but I chose not too. The ProJect T1 worked ok, after I spent days trying to make it work. I also wanted something simi automatic. The Victrola, in my opinion, sounds a lot better than the ProJect T1 and easier set up. I like the way it sounds just like the turntables I had in the old school 80’s. I love the simi auto function and that I do not need to use line-in. I am upset with SONOS and their forced release of a broken app, but my turn table works great with my system. 

WiFi TT, interesting

The SONOS line inputs don’t sound right to me.  I was using them on a Port to get music from my recording studio into my rec room. The volume was low but no setting worked to fix it - either too low, or distorted.  I ended up reverting to a 40 foot or so RCA cable to carry the audio which should be a terrible idea, but it sounds 1) correct volume and 2) no distortion.

I cannot image a turntable doing any better.  Something isn’t right with the line inputs.  And this was before the app and firmware SNAFU.

Stevepow, yeah but I’m stuck with line in to the Five, there is no other option without buying more gear

Double check the phono-preamp switch, make sure it is switched on.

If it is, try switching it off and listen for a sound change. Maybe try a few cycles. You should hear good sound with it on and distorted (non-RIAA equalized) sound with it off.

Sounds like the Victrola is the popular favorite for a turntable setup. Any preference on which of their models is best sound and easiest setup with the Sonos speakers?

@sarahrose 

I don't own the Victrola series. However, aside from price the latter two at $799 vs $599 for the Stream Onyx the major difference is the phono cartridges. The Ortofon 2M Red being the better choice. Also the Pearl and Carbon both have Carbon Fiber Tone Arms vs Aluminum for the Onyx. Ease of setup should be the same for all three (3) using their app.

Note: The Stream Pearl is a Limited Edition if that makes a difference 

Stream Onyx Works with Sonos Turntable

Features & Benefits

• Wirelessly stream vinyl to your entire Sonos system
• 2-speed, belt-driven turntable with Victrola silicone slipmat plays all your favorite 33 1/3 and 45 rpm vinyl records
• Onyx features an Audio Technica AT-VM95E or Ortofon OM5E cartridge for high-fidelity sound
• The Victrola Stream app allows easy setup and adjustments
• Fully integrates with the Sonos app
• Includes RCA output for use with non-Sonos speakers

Stream Pearl Works with Sonos Turntable: Limited Edition

Stream Carbon Works with Sonos Turntable

Features & Benefits

• Wirelessly stream vinyl records to your entire Sonos system
• Premium Ortofon 2M Red cartridge brings crisp, clear sound
• 2-speed, belt-driven turntable with Victrola silicone slipmat plays all your favorite 33 1/3, and 45 rpm vinyl records
• The Victrola Stream app allows easy setup and adjustments
• Fully integrates with the Sonos app 
• Includes RCA output for use with non-Sonos speakers

I have the Onyx and it works GREAT and set up was so easy and after the lame SONOS app update, it still worked as it did before the update. I am very happy with Victrola. I did not pay for the more expensive Stream and Pearl because this was the second turntable I purchased to work with SONOS and didn’t want to spend that much, but I would totally purchase either one of the two more expensive now, I think totally worth it. I use the turn table almost daily.