Analog to Digital questions


Hi folks,

Would love some help here as I think about recording vinyl to computer.  A few questions:

  1. My phono stage is built-in to my pre-amp (Classe CP-35).  The pre-amp has RCA and XLR outputs for connection to an amp, as well as a "tape out" connection.  Can I use one of those to connect to an Analog-to-Digital converter (ADC)?  Or is the pre-amp output too "loud" for the ADC?
  2. Is it important to have an input gain control on the ADC?
  3. Is there such a thing as a device that does both A->D AND D->A?  In the long run, I'd like to use the computer to play music as well as record it.  Or does everyone buy two devices?

Thank you!
ehart
Use the tape out.  Most pro oriented A/Ds have an input gain control to optimize recording gain.  There are any number of pro oriented combo A/D and D/A units plus McIntosh, PS Audio, Channel D and others have introduced a variety of audiophile targeted vinyl digitizing options.