Are you a vinyl enthusiast looking to add a phono preamp to your home theater setup?
If you own an Onkyo TX-SR876 receiver, you may be wondering if it’s possible to integrate a phono preamp into your system.
In this article, we’ll explore the compatibility of the Onkyo TX-SR876 with phono preamps and provide some tips on how to get the best sound from your vinyl collection.
Whether you’re a seasoned audiophile or just starting out, read on to learn more about adding a phono preamp to your Onkyo TX-SR876.
Can I Add A Phono Preamp To My Onkyo TX-SR876
The short answer is yes, you can add a phono preamp to your Onkyo TX-SR876. However, it’s important to note that the receiver does not have a built-in phono preamp, so you will need to purchase one separately.
A phono preamp, also known as a phono stage or phono amplifier, is necessary for playing vinyl records because the signal from a turntable is much weaker than other audio sources. The phono preamp boosts the signal and applies the necessary equalization to reproduce the sound accurately.
When selecting a phono preamp, it’s important to choose one that matches the specifications of your turntable and cartridge. Look for a preamp with adjustable gain and impedance settings to ensure compatibility with a wide range of equipment.
Once you have selected a compatible phono preamp, you can connect it to your Onkyo TX-SR876 using the RCA inputs on the back of the receiver. Simply plug the output from the phono preamp into one of the available analog inputs on the receiver, such as the CD or AUX input.
Understanding Phono Preamps
A phono preamp is an essential component when playing vinyl records. It is responsible for boosting the signal from the turntable and applying the necessary equalization to reproduce the sound accurately. Without a phono preamp, the sound from a turntable would be weak and distorted.
Phono preamps come in two types: built-in and external. Some receivers, like the Onkyo TX-SR876, have a built-in phono preamp. This means that you can connect your turntable directly to the phono input on the receiver without needing an external preamp.
On the other hand, if your turntable does not have a built-in preamp or if you prefer an external one, you will need to purchase a separate phono preamp. When selecting a phono preamp, it’s important to choose one that matches the specifications of your turntable and cartridge. Look for a preamp with adjustable gain and impedance settings to ensure compatibility with a wide range of equipment.
Connecting an external phono preamp to your Onkyo TX-SR876 is easy. Simply plug the output cables from your turntable into the RCA jacks labeled “In” or “Input” on the preamp. Then connect a separate pair of RCA cables from the RCA jacks labeled “Out” or “Output” on the preamp to one of the available analog inputs on your receiver, such as the CD or AUX input.
It’s important to note that you should not connect the phono preamp wires to the phono input on your receiver as it will cause the sound to be distorted. Instead, use one of the available analog inputs on your receiver.
Onkyo TX-SR876 Compatibility With Phono Preamps
When it comes to compatibility with phono preamps, the Onkyo TX-SR876 is a versatile receiver that can work with a wide range of preamps on the market. Since the receiver does not have a built-in phono preamp, it’s important to choose a preamp that matches the specifications of your turntable and cartridge.
One thing to note is that the Onkyo TX-SR876 has RCA inputs on the back of the receiver, which are commonly used for analog audio sources such as CD players and tape decks. These inputs can also be used for connecting a phono preamp. Most phono preamps have RCA outputs, so you can simply plug the output from the preamp into one of the available analog inputs on the receiver.
It’s also worth noting that the Onkyo TX-SR876 has a high-quality digital-to-analog converter (DAC) that can handle up to 24-bit/192 kHz audio signals. This means that if you have a high-end phono preamp with a digital output, you can connect it to one of the digital inputs on the receiver for even better sound quality.
In terms of specific phono preamps that are compatible with the Onkyo TX-SR876, it really depends on your personal preferences and budget. As mentioned earlier, look for a preamp with adjustable gain and impedance settings to ensure compatibility with your turntable and cartridge. Some popular options include the Cambridge Audio CP2, Pro-Ject Phono Box S2, and NAD PP 2e.
How To Connect A Phono Preamp To Your Onkyo TX-SR876
Connecting a phono preamp to your Onkyo TX-SR876 is a straightforward process. Here’s how to do it:
1. First, locate the RCA inputs on the back of your receiver. You will need to connect the phono preamp to one of these inputs.
2. Connect the RCA cables from your turntable to the RCA inputs on your phono preamp.
3. Next, connect a separate pair of RCA cables from the RCA outputs on the phono preamp to the analog input on your Onkyo TX-SR876. Make sure to select an input that is not already in use, such as the CD or AUX input.
4. If your turntable has a ground wire, connect it to the “GND” post on your receiver. This will help reduce any unwanted noise or hum.
5. Finally, turn on your receiver and select the input you connected your phono preamp to. You should now be able to play vinyl records through your Onkyo TX-SR876.
By following these steps, you can enjoy high-quality sound from your turntable on your Onkyo receiver.
Tips For Getting The Best Sound From Your Vinyl Collection
If you want to get the best sound quality from your vinyl collection, there are a few tips you should keep in mind. Here are some suggestions:
1. Invest in a good turntable: The quality of your turntable is crucial when it comes to getting the best sound from your vinyl collection. Look for a turntable that is well-built and has a high-quality cartridge.
2. Use a phono preamp: As mentioned above, a phono preamp is necessary for playing vinyl records. Make sure to choose one that matches the specifications of your turntable and cartridge.
3. Keep your turntable level: Turntables perform best when they are completely flat and level. Use a torpedo level or record weight with a built-in spirit level to ensure that your turntable is level.
4. Clean your records: From time to time, it’s important to give your records a thorough cleaning to remove dirt and dust that can affect the sound quality. Use a record cleaning velvet brush and a cleaning solution that is specifically designed for record cleaning.
5. Minimize external vibration: Turntables are sensitive to external vibration, which can affect the accuracy of the stylus in the groove. Keep your turntable away from speakers and other sources of vibration, and use a decent turntable support to minimize unwanted energy.
By following these tips, you can ensure that you get the best possible sound quality from your vinyl collection.
Recommended Phono Preamps For Onkyo TX-SR876 Owners.
If you’re an Onkyo TX-SR876 owner looking to upgrade your vinyl listening experience, here are some recommended phono preamps to consider:
1. Musical Fidelity V-LPS – This external phono preamp is a popular choice among audiophiles and offers adjustable gain and impedance settings for compatibility with a wide range of turntables and cartridges. It also has a sleek design and is relatively affordable compared to other high-end phono preamps.
2. Lehmann Audio Black Cube – The Black Cube is a high-end phono preamp that offers exceptional sound quality and features adjustable gain and impedance settings. It’s a bit pricier than the V-LPS, but many users swear by its performance.
3. Pro-Ject Phono Box DS – This phono preamp is another popular choice among audiophiles and offers adjustable gain and impedance settings, as well as a subsonic filter to eliminate low-frequency noise. It’s also relatively affordable compared to other high-end phono preamps.
4. Cambridge Audio Azur 651P – The Azur 651P is a solid choice for those on a budget, offering adjustable gain and impedance settings and a subsonic filter at an affordable price point.
Ultimately, the best phono preamp for you will depend on your specific needs and budget. However, any of the above options would be a great place to start for Onkyo TX-SR876 owners looking to upgrade their vinyl listening experience.
