Anyone have thoughts on the best way to record vinyl records to digital?
Specifically. ..do you think a turntable with USB output to PC and recording with SonarX3
or Turntable to pre-amp to A/D converter (specifically Fast track Duo) via RCA jacks and recording with X3.
Any theories on which would produce a more accurate recording? 
 
Thanks
Jacob

generally using a specialist audio interface (such as the fast track) will be better as you would assume the AD converters would be better than those in your PC's soundcard...

Makes sense...thanks
I think whats confusing be a little bit is that the Fast Track is connected via USB also.  Sowo3uld it be a matter if the turntable is doing the AD conversion or the audio interface?
sorry for the edits....cant type on a tablet for s**t!
 

I use go through a phono pre amp, into my AD convertors, into the DAW. 
 
Which is better depends on the quality that you have going into your computer. I've never researched the turntables with built in convertors and USB outputs, so I don't know good they are.

Your audio interface's A/D converter will almost certainly be better.  Most USB turntables are built like junk and will have other issues such as wow and flutter.  I had an Audio Technica and tossed it for a few reasons, including what appeared to be a lack of EQ.
 
A vinyl record needs to be played through equipment having the proper RIAA equalization curve or it will sound tinny.  Old stereo receivers had this built-in.   I once tried recording direct from turntable-to-tape using a $20 Phono preamp from Radio Shack (supposedly with equalization) but the preamp itself sounded like crap.  That's when I realized the importance of a true RIAA curve.
 
If I were to do this, I'd plug my standard turntable into a stereo receiver with phono inputs, then connect record-out/line-out from the receiver to a good audio interface (your Fast-Track?).  Others have said this is the best way.
 
 

I use the record ("tape") out sockets in my hi-fi amp connected to an audio interface to do this.

Phono cartridges need a pre-amp with the right kind of electronics in it otherwise cartridges have a very low output and are, as pvaudo says, tinny.

PC built-in soundcards can have decent convertors, but the surrounding electronics are usually pretty poor. If they only have a mic input expect a great deal of hiss as well.

As for USB turntables my advice is to not waste your money on them.

Thanks for the suggestions.  Just to save money for now I am going to use my current Stanton str8-80 that doesnt have USB and connect to my Pioneer receiver via the phono in and through the Fast Track.
I will be upgrading my turntable cartridge and stylus and buy the spin-clean record cleaner.
 
Thanks again

The quality of the turntable and cartridge is vastly more important than the quality of the audio interface. I think you're going about it correctly, assuming you've got a proper turntable preamp. Your typical audio interface isn't going to have enough gain on its own. 

^^^Exactly what I thought. I haven't followed the USB-turntable market, but the ones you usually bump into are so cheap you can't get a decent cartridge/stylus for the money.
My EMU interface has a phono-input which is very good IMO.

We digitize vinyl professionally for thousands of customers.
Record Player: EMT 948  (professional Broadcasting machine)
Audio out in a RME Fireface 800.
USB is not recommended.
iZotope RX4 für cleaning crackles and noise.
This gives a perfect quality for publishers