Help with Technics SL12-10 (mk2) and loss of top end

[EllisD]

Sorry if this is off topic but I can't find anywhere else to put it!

My problem is thus. I have my industry standard 2 x Technics SL1210 Mk2's hooked up through a Vestax mixer, into a TLA compressor and then onto the line in on my Creative Audigy 2zs soundcard.

When playing from vinyl and sampling onto the PC the recordings seem a little flat, not a lot of top end. It's not REALLY bad but still affects the quality of the mixes I am recording. I have confirmed this by looking at the spectrum analyser in the audio recording program on the PC. There is nothing above 10kz and everything a little below or on 10kz is also a little low.

I've tried the following to rectify:

1: different sound card
2: different mixer
3: different cabling
4: removing the compressor
5: different PC
6: new needles

None of the above made any difference. I've hooked up a CD player as the source to the soundcard and all is fine, the spectrum analyser shows activity in and around the 10 - 20kz region.

I'm a bit stumped as to the source of the problem. Could it be the cartridges they are very old (8+ years) but would rather not have to buy new ones if possible? (I have Stanton 500MK2 carts and 5100AL-2 needles).

Anyones ideas would be greatly received!

Thanks in advance,

Ellis

[Cable Monkey]

I presume you are using inputs specifically for turntables on the mixer to take account of RIAA equalisation?

[EllisD]

Mmmm, to be honest I have no clue! I've read your link on RIAA equalisation and am still none the wiser

It's a "pro" (!!) mixer with proper Phono inputs if that helps!

Thanks for your help

Ellis