Lenco L-3818 Professional Turntable User Manual

Introduction

Thank you for purchasing the Lenco L-3818 Professional Turntable. This direct-drive turntable is designed for both professional DJ use and high-quality home listening. It features pitch control, 33 and 45 RPM speeds, an integrated stereo preamplifier, USB connectivity for digitization, and RCA line-out. This manual provides essential information for the safe and efficient operation of your new turntable. Please read it thoroughly before use and retain it for future reference.

Safety Instructions

• Power Source: Ensure the power supply voltage matches the rating label on the unit.
• Ventilation: Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
• Water and Moisture: Do not expose this appliance to rain or moisture. Do not place objects filled with liquids, such as vases, on the apparatus.
• Heat: Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
• Cleaning: Clean only with a dry cloth. Avoid using solvents or abrasive cleaners.
• Servicing: Do not attempt to service this product yourself. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.
• Dust Cover: Always use the dust cover to protect the platter and stylus when not in use.

Package Contents

Please check that all items are present and in good condition:

• Lenco L-3818 Turntable Unit
• Dust Cover
• RCA Cable
• USB Cable
• Power Adapter
• Slipmat
• Counterweight
• Headshell with Cartridge

Product Overview

Figure 1: Front-top view of the Lenco L-3818 turntable with the clear dust cover in place, showcasing the Lenco logo on the slipmat and the overall black finish. This view highlights the main components including the platter, tonearm, and control buttons.

Figure 2: Front view of the Lenco L-3818 turntable, showing the dust cover closed. This perspective emphasizes the compact design and the placement of the speed selection buttons (33/45 RPM) and the start/stop button.

Figure 3: Rear view of the Lenco L-3818 turntable, displaying the connectivity ports. From left to right, these include the RCA Line-Out (L/R), a switch for Line/Phono output, a USB port for PC connection, the AC power input, and the main power switch.

Figure 4: Close-up view of the tonearm assembly and pitch control slider on the Lenco L-3818 turntable. This image highlights the stylus, counterweight, anti-skate dial, and the precise pitch adjustment slider for fine-tuning playback speed.

Figure 5: Front view of the Lenco L-3818 turntable with the dust cover removed, providing a clear view of the platter, slipmat with "Lenco Direct Drive" branding, tonearm, and the control panel including speed selectors and pitch control.

Setup

1. Unpacking: Carefully remove the turntable and all accessories from the packaging. Keep the packaging for future transport or storage.
2. Placement: Place the turntable on a stable, level surface away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and excessive dust or vibrations.
3. Dust Cover Installation: Attach the dust cover to the hinges at the rear of the turntable.
4. Platter and Slipmat: Place the platter onto the spindle. Then, place the felt slipmat on top of the platter.
5. Counterweight Adjustment: Slide the counterweight onto the rear of the tonearm. Adjust it to achieve proper tracking force as specified by the cartridge manufacturer (typically 2-4 grams for most DJ cartridges). Balance the tonearm first so it floats freely, then rotate the numbered ring to zero, and finally rotate the entire counterweight to the desired tracking force.
6. Anti-Skate Adjustment: Set the anti-skate dial to match the tracking force. This helps prevent the stylus from skipping inwards.
7. Connections:
   • Audio Output: Connect the RCA cable from the "LINE OUT" ports on the turntable to an available input on your mixer or amplifier. If your amplifier has a "PHONO" input, ensure the PHONO/LINE switch on the turntable's rear is set to "PHONO". If connecting to a standard "LINE" input, set the switch to "LINE" (this utilizes the built-in preamplifier).
   • USB Connection (for Digitization): Connect the USB cable from the turntable's "USB TO PC" port to an available USB port on your computer.
   • Power: Connect the power adapter to the "AC IN" port on the turntable and then plug it into a wall outlet.

Operating Instructions

Playing a Record

1. Ensure the turntable is powered on using the switch at the rear.
2. Place a record on the platter.
3. Select the appropriate speed (33 or 45 RPM) using the speed selector buttons.
4. Press the "START/STOP" button to begin platter rotation.
5. Gently lift the tonearm using the cueing lever.
6. Position the tonearm over the desired groove of the record.
7. Slowly lower the tonearm using the cueing lever. The stylus will now make contact with the record and playback will begin.
8. To stop playback, lift the tonearm using the cueing lever, return it to the tonearm rest, and press the "START/STOP" button.

Using Pitch Control

The pitch control slider allows you to finely adjust the playback speed of the record. Move the slider up or down to increase or decrease the speed, respectively. This is particularly useful for beatmatching when DJing or for correcting minor speed inaccuracies.

Digitizing Vinyl Records (USB to PC)

To digitize your vinyl collection, connect the turntable to your computer via the USB cable. You will need audio recording software (e.g., Audacity, available for free online) on your computer.

1. Connect the USB cable from the turntable to your computer.
2. Open your preferred audio recording software.
3. In the software's audio settings, select the Lenco L-3818 (or similar USB Audio Device) as the input source.
4. Start recording in the software, then begin playing your record on the turntable.
5. Once the record has finished playing, stop the recording in the software.
6. Edit and save your digitized audio files as desired.

Maintenance

• Cleaning the Unit: Wipe the turntable's surface with a soft, dry, lint-free cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners, waxes, or solvents.
• Cleaning the Stylus: Use a soft brush designed for stylus cleaning, brushing gently from back to front. Clean the stylus regularly to ensure optimal sound quality and prevent damage to your records.
• Dust Cover: Keep the dust cover closed when the turntable is not in use to prevent dust accumulation on the platter and stylus. Clean the dust cover with a soft, damp cloth.
• Stylus Replacement: The stylus (needle) is a consumable part and will wear out over time. Replace the stylus when you notice a degradation in sound quality or visible wear. Refer to the cartridge manufacturer's instructions for specific replacement procedures.

Troubleshooting

Specifications

Warranty and Support

Lenco products are designed and manufactured to the highest quality standards. For detailed warranty information and technical support, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Lenco website. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.

For further assistance, you may contact Lenco customer service through their official channels.