Connect Phono to Dialog

[seb]

It's not the ideal path IMO. What if you want to upgrade the TT later? You're limiting yourself to those with USB out. Just save and get a decent A2D converter like the Pro-Ject A/D Phono Box S. Less is more.

You are right. In terms of flexibility it may be better for some to go for a turntable with a "classic" RCA Phono connector. This would also leave room for some improvements regarding the Phono stage and ADC. In fact most of the turntables with USB out have also a phono stage included and only Line out, so output quality may vary. 

However the ADL Stratos as well as the ADL GT40a have a Phono Preamp included. In addition Stratos can convert to optical out (GT40a only coax!). Unfortunately there is a design flaw with the Pro-Ject A/D Phono Box S as it can only deliver optical out while actively being connected to a computer (also discussed here in the forum). Having said that I found two other ADC which might be of interest. Both are around USD 500. The third one I mention below is much more expensive.

The first also handles HDMI, but misses a phono stage:
http://www.essenceelectrostatic.com/product/hdacc/

The second is actually a music system (incl. amplifier and speakers) but it has a phono stage and optical out (which is a rare combination):
http://www.musicalfidelity.com/merlin/

If there are no budget restrictions, this one might be appealing (it has digital out but apparently no optical out):
http://www.psaudio.com/products/nuwave-phono-converter/

Update:

Another one that might be interesting (ca. USD 150), no phono stage but incl. a headphone preamp):
http://www.m-audio.com/products/view/sup...quQK2diAUE