Introduction
Thank you for choosing the Lenco LBT-188 Bluetooth Turntable. This high-quality belt-drive turntable is designed to provide an excellent vinyl listening experience with modern conveniences. It features two selectable speeds (33 and 45 RPM), an anti-skating mechanism, a built-in pre-amplifier, and a USB port for digitizing your vinyl collection to MP3. Additionally, its integrated Bluetooth transmission allows for wireless audio streaming to compatible speakers or headphones.
This manual provides detailed instructions for setting up, operating, and maintaining your LBT-188 turntable to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
Package Contents
- Lenco LBT-188 Turntable Unit
- Dust Cover
- Platter
- Felt Mat
- Counterweight
- Anti-skating Weight
- AC Power Adapter (CE-UK)
- USB Cable
- RCA Audio Cable
- Instruction Manual
Setup
1. Unpacking and Placement
Carefully remove all components from the packaging. Place the turntable on a stable, level surface away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and strong vibrations. Ensure adequate ventilation around the unit.
Figure 1: Lenco LBT-188 Turntable with dust cover closed, ready for placement.
2. Platter and Belt Installation
- Gently place the platter onto the center spindle.
- Locate the drive belt underneath the platter. Stretch the belt around the motor pulley.
- Place the felt mat on top of the platter.
3. Tonearm Assembly and Balance
- Attach the counterweight to the rear of the tonearm. Rotate it clockwise until it is fully threaded.
- Carefully remove the stylus protector from the cartridge.
- Release the tonearm clamp. Adjust the counterweight by rotating it until the tonearm is perfectly balanced and floats horizontally.
- Once balanced, hold the counterweight steady and rotate the tracking force ring to "0".
- Rotate the entire counterweight counter-clockwise to set the recommended tracking force (typically 2.0g for the AT3600 cartridge). Refer to the cartridge manufacturer's specifications for precise values.
Figure 2: Close-up of the tonearm assembly, showing the counterweight and anti-skating wire.
4. Anti-Skating Adjustment
Attach the small loop of the anti-skating weight string to the anti-skating post. The weight should hang freely. This helps prevent the stylus from skipping inwards across the record.
5. Connecting to Audio System
The LBT-188 has a built-in switchable pre-amplifier. You can connect it to an amplifier's PHONO input (if the pre-amp is OFF) or to an AUX/LINE input (if the pre-amp is ON).
- Connect the RCA audio cables from the turntable's RCA output jacks (red for right, white for left) to the corresponding input jacks on your amplifier or powered speakers.
- Ensure the PHONO/LINE switch on the back of the turntable is set correctly based on your amplifier's input.
Figure 3: Rear panel connections including RCA outputs, USB port, and power input.
6. Power Connection
Connect the AC power adapter to the DC 12V input on the back of the turntable, then plug the adapter into a wall outlet.
Operating Instructions
1. Powering On/Off
Use the ON/OFF switch located on the rear panel to power the turntable on or off.
2. Playing a Record
- Place a record on the platter.
- Select the appropriate speed (33 or 45 RPM) using the speed selector knob.
- Unlock the tonearm clamp.
- Lift the tonearm using the cueing lever.
- Position the tonearm over the desired starting groove of the record.
- Gently lower the tonearm using the cueing lever. The stylus will descend onto the record and playback will begin.
- To stop playback, lift the tonearm using the cueing lever and return it to the tonearm rest. Secure it with the clamp.
Figure 4: A hand carefully positioning the tonearm over a record.
Figure 5: The stylus tracking a groove on a vinyl record during playback.
3. Bluetooth Transmission
The LBT-188 can stream audio wirelessly to Bluetooth-enabled speakers or headphones.
- Ensure your Bluetooth receiving device (speaker/headphones) is in pairing mode.
- With the turntable powered on, press and hold the Bluetooth pairing button (usually indicated by a Bluetooth icon) on the turntable until the indicator light flashes, signifying pairing mode.
- The turntable will automatically search for and connect to the nearest available Bluetooth device. Once connected, the indicator light will become solid.
- Begin playing a record, and the audio will be transmitted to your paired Bluetooth device.
Note: Bluetooth connection may be affected by other nearby Bluetooth devices. Ensure your receiving device is close to the turntable during pairing.
4. USB Digitization (Vinyl to MP3)
The integrated USB port allows you to convert your vinyl records into digital MP3 files directly to a computer.
- Connect the turntable to your computer using the supplied USB cable.
- Install appropriate audio recording software on your computer (e.g., Audacity, available for free online).
- Follow the instructions of your chosen software to select the turntable as the input device and begin recording.
- Play your vinyl record, and the audio will be captured by the software.
- Save the recorded audio as an MP3 file on your computer.
Maintenance
1. Cleaning the Stylus
Regularly clean the stylus using a soft brush, brushing gently from back to front. A dirty stylus can cause poor sound quality and damage to your records.
2. Cleaning the Turntable Unit and Dust Cover
Wipe the turntable and dust cover with a soft, dry, lint-free cloth. For stubborn marks, use a slightly damp cloth with mild soap, then wipe dry immediately. Avoid abrasive cleaners or solvents.
3. Replacing the Stylus/Cartridge
The stylus (needle) has a limited lifespan and should be replaced after approximately 300-500 hours of playback. Refer to the cartridge manufacturer's instructions for replacement. The LBT-188 typically uses an Audio-Technica AT3600 cartridge.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No power | Power adapter not connected; Power outlet faulty; Turntable switch off. | Ensure power adapter is securely connected and plugged into a working outlet. Check ON/OFF switch on the rear. |
| No sound or low sound output | Incorrect PHONO/LINE switch setting; RCA cables not connected properly; Amplifier/speakers off or volume low; Stylus damaged. | Check PHONO/LINE switch matches your amplifier input. Ensure RCA cables are fully inserted. Turn on amplifier/speakers and adjust volume. Inspect stylus for damage. |
| Skipping or distorted sound | Dirty stylus; Incorrect tracking force or anti-skating; Damaged record; Turntable not level; Vibrations. | Clean stylus. Re-balance tonearm and adjust tracking force/anti-skating. Check record condition. Ensure turntable is on a stable, level surface. Minimize vibrations. |
| Bluetooth not connecting | Receiving device not in pairing mode; Too far from turntable; Interference; Already paired to another device. | Ensure receiving device is in pairing mode and close to the turntable. Turn off other Bluetooth devices. Reset Bluetooth on both devices if necessary. |
| USB recording issues | USB cable not connected; Software not configured correctly; Driver issues. | Ensure USB cable is securely connected. Verify software input settings. Check computer's device manager for driver status. |
Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Brand | Lenco |
| Model Number | LBT-188 WA |
| Color | Walnut |
| Connectivity Technology | Bluetooth, RCA, USB |
| Drive Type | Belt Drive |
| Speeds | 33 1/3 RPM, 45 RPM |
| Cartridge Type | Moving Magnetic Cartridge (AT3600) |
| Special Features | Bluetooth Transmission, USB for MP3 Digitization, Built-in Pre-amplifier (ON-OFF), Anti-Skating |
| Compatible Devices | Headphones, Speakers, Personal Computer |
| Material | Metal, Plastic |
| Item Weight | 4.8 Kilograms |
| Manufacturer | Commaxx |
| Country of Origin | China |
Warranty and Support
This product comes with a 12-month warranty from the date of purchase, covering manufacturing defects. Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims.
For technical support, troubleshooting assistance beyond this manual, or warranty inquiries, please contact Lenco customer service through their official website or the retailer where you purchased the product. Do not attempt to repair the unit yourself, as this may void the warranty.
