Vinyl records have made a comeback in recent years, with many music enthusiasts rediscovering the unique sound and tactile experience of playing records.
However, if you’re new to the world of vinyl, you may be surprised to learn that you can’t simply plug your turntable into any sound system like you would with other audio equipment.
This is where phono amps come in. But are they any different than other amps?
In this article, we’ll explore the distinct differences between phono preamps and power amplifiers, and why they are both necessary in the signal chain between a turntable and speakers.
We’ll also discuss the importance of properly matching your power amplifier with your speakers to avoid any damage.
So, let’s dive in and learn more about these essential components for vinyl playback.
Are Phono Amps Any Different Than Other Amps
To answer the question simply, yes, phono amps are different than other amps.
Phono preamps and power amplifiers perform different duties in the signal chain between a turntable and speakers. While power amplifiers are used to drive the speaker components, phono preamps are required to amplify the incredibly quiet output of a phono cartridge and raise it up to line level so that the audio receiver and amplifier can use the signal.
Additionally, phono preamps have a unique function of adding in RIAA EQ correction. This equalization standard was introduced by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) in the 1950s to compress audio so that more of it could fit on a record. During playback, the exact opposite function is performed through an RIAA phono preamp, resulting in the reproduction of the original audio.
Furthermore, there are external preamps and built-in preamps. External preamps are standalone units that require their own power supply and must be connected to the turntable with RCA cables. Built-in preamps, on the other hand, are integrated into some turntables for ease of use.
It’s important to note that higher-end phono preamps offer more versatility and can accurately amplify a wider range of cartridges, including rarer Moving Coil (MC) cartridges that require much more gain and have different electrical requirements than their more common Moving Magnet brethren.
When it comes to power amplifiers, it’s crucial to properly match them with your speakers. You don’t want a power amplifier that is too weak to drive your speakers nor one that is so powerful that it might damage them.
Understanding The Basics: What Is A Phono Amp?
A phono amp, also known as a phono preamp, is an essential component in the audio chain that connects a turntable to an amplifier or receiver. It is responsible for amplifying the low-level output of a phono cartridge, which produces a PHONO signal that needs to be converted to a LINE LEVEL signal. The phono amp raises the signal level to match the LINE LEVEL input of an amplifier or receiver so that it can be played through speakers.
One important function of a phono amp is to apply RIAA EQ correction. This equalization standard was introduced in the 1950s to compress audio so that more of it could fit on a record. During playback, the phono amp applies the exact opposite function of RIAA EQ correction, resulting in the reproduction of the original audio.
Phono preamps can be external or built-in. External preamps are standalone units that require their own power supply and must be connected to the turntable with RCA cables. Built-in preamps, on the other hand, are integrated into some turntables for ease of use.
It’s important to note that not all phono preamps are created equal. Higher-end phono preamps offer more versatility and can accurately amplify a wider range of cartridges, including rarer Moving Coil (MC) cartridges that require much more gain and have different electrical requirements than their more common Moving Magnet brethren.
The Difference Between Phono Preamps And Power Amplifiers
The main difference between phono preamps and power amplifiers is their function in the signal chain. Phono preamps are required to amplify the incredibly low output of a phono cartridge and raise it up to line level, while power amplifiers are used to drive the speaker components.
Another significant difference is that phono preamps have a unique function of adding in RIAA EQ correction, while power amplifiers do not. This equalization standard was introduced in the 1950s to compress audio so that more of it could fit on a record. During playback, the exact opposite function is performed through an RIAA phono preamp, resulting in the reproduction of the original audio.
Moreover, while there are external and built-in preamps, power amplifiers are typically standalone units that require their own power supply. It’s also important to note that higher-end phono preamps offer more versatility and can accurately amplify a wider range of cartridges, including rarer Moving Coil (MC) cartridges that require much more gain and have different electrical requirements than their more common Moving Magnet brethren.
Why You Need Both: The Signal Chain For Vinyl Playback
To truly experience vinyl and record players, you need both a phono preamp and a power amplifier in the signal chain between your turntable and speakers. The phono preamp is responsible for amplifying the incredibly quiet output of a phono cartridge and adding in RIAA EQ correction, while the power amplifier is used to drive the speaker components.
Without a phono preamp, the output of your turntable will be too quiet and will not be compatible with the rest of your audio system. The RIAA EQ correction is also necessary to reproduce the original audio as it was pressed into a record.
On the other hand, without a power amplifier, the signal from your preamp will not be strong enough to drive your speakers. It’s important to properly match your power amplifier with your speakers to avoid damaging them or having insufficient power.
Matching Your Power Amplifier With Your Speakers: Why It Matters
Matching your power amplifier with your speakers is crucial for achieving optimal sound quality and avoiding potential damage to your equipment. The process of matching involves finding the right pairing or selection of amplifier and speaker, taking into consideration factors such as impedance, power output, sensitivity, and channel configuration.
Impedance matching refers to having the same source and load impedance, which is great for maximum power transfer but not ideal for signal transfer. Therefore, it’s important to consider the impedance characteristics of both the amplifier and speaker when selecting a pair.
Power output is another important factor to consider when matching your power amplifier with your speakers. The power output of an amplifier is measured in watts and affects how loud the speakers will play. However, it’s important to note that a more powerful amplifier doesn’t necessarily mean better sound quality. In fact, using an amplifier that is too powerful for your speakers can cause damage.
Sensitivity is also a crucial factor in matching your power amplifier with your speakers. It measures how loud a speaker will go for a given input and is measured in decibels (dB). A more sensitive speaker will require less power to produce the same volume level as a less sensitive one.
Lastly, channel configuration should also be considered when matching your power amplifier with your speakers. Different sound system set-ups require different channel configurations, such as one channel (monoblock), two-channel (stereo), or even up to 5-7 channels for surround applications or home theater set-ups.
Common Mistakes To Avoid When Using Phono Amps
When it comes to using phono amps, there are a few common mistakes that people make. The first mistake is not understanding whether or not their turntable has a built-in phono preamp. If it does, then there is no need to purchase an external preamp. However, if the turntable does not have a built-in preamp, then an external preamp is necessary.
Another mistake is not properly matching the phono preamp with the cartridge. Moving Magnet (MM) cartridges are the most common and are compatible with most phono preamps. However, Moving Coil (MC) cartridges require much more gain and have different electrical requirements. It’s important to choose a phono preamp that can accurately amplify the specific cartridge being used.
Some people also make the mistake of not properly grounding the turntable and preamp, which can result in unwanted noise and hum. Make sure to connect the ground wire from the turntable to the ground terminal on the phono preamp.
Lastly, people often overlook the importance of using high-quality cables when connecting their turntable and preamp. Using low-quality cables can negatively impact sound quality and introduce unwanted noise.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure that your phono amp setup is optimized for the best sound quality possible.
