If you’re new to the world of turntables and vinyl, you may be wondering if you can use a headphone amp as a phono preamp.
The short answer is no, but with some additional equipment and know-how, it is possible.
In this article, we’ll explore the differences between a phono preamp and a headphone amp, and discuss the steps you can take to use a headphone amp as a preamp.
Whether you’re a seasoned audiophile or just starting out, read on to learn more about this fascinating topic.
Can I Use A Headphone Amp As A Phono Preamp
The answer to this question is not a straightforward “yes” or “no.” A headphone amp is not designed to work as a phono preamp, and attempting to use it as one can result in out-of-balance sound with lots of noise and distortion.
This is because a headphone amp does not have a built-in phono preamp and is not designed to work with the very low voltage output signal from a phono cartridge, nor will it apply the required RIAA equalization.
However, it may be possible to use a headphone amp as a preamp if it is capable of driving down to around 16 Ohms or lower. In this case, you would need to connect your turntable to a separate phono preamp and then connect the output of the preamp to the input of the headphone amp.
It’s important to note that a phono preamp has a completely different purpose than a headphone amplifier. A phono preamp converts the 5mV PHONO signal from a cartridge to a 300mV LINE level signal, while a headphone amp takes a 300mV LINE level signal and boosts it so that it is strong enough to drive headphones properly.
If you’re looking for an all-in-one solution, there are headphone amplifiers with built-in phono preamps available on the market. These devices allow you to connect your turntable directly to the headphone amp without the need for a separate preamp.
Understanding The Function Of A Phono Preamp
A phono preamp, also known as a phono stage, is a critical component in any vinyl playback system. Its primary function is to amplify the very low voltage output signal from a phono cartridge to a level suitable for the standard AUX input on your stereo. Without a phono preamp, the signal from your turntable would be too weak to play properly through your sound system.
But amplification alone is not enough. The signal generated by a phono cartridge is delicate and requires equalization to correct for the frequency adjustments made during the record cutting process. That’s where the RIAA equalization curve comes in. The phono preamp applies this curve to the signal, returning it to something listenable and re-emphasizing low frequencies while trimming back highs.
It’s important to note that not all amplifiers have built-in phono preamps, and those that do may not be of sufficient quality to deliver the best possible sound from your vinyl collection. In these cases, an external phono preamp is necessary.
While a headphone amp may seem like a possible substitute for a phono preamp, it is not designed to work with the low voltage output signal from a phono cartridge, nor will it apply the required RIAA equalization. Attempting to use a headphone amp as a preamp can result in out-of-balance sound with lots of noise and distortion.
How A Headphone Amp Differs From A Phono Preamp
A headphone amp differs from a phono preamp in several ways. Firstly, headphone amps are rated based on the amount of output voltage they can produce, while preamps are rated based on their power. Headphone amps are not as dependent on the impedance of the headphones as preamps are on the impedance of the speakers, monitors, or mixing console. Additionally, headphone amps have a maximum limit of current that they can produce, which is an attribute that indicates how much power they can deliver directly to a low impedance load, such as around 50 Ohms or less.
On the other hand, a phono preamp is designed to work with the very low voltage output signal from a phono cartridge and to apply the required RIAA equalization. It converts the 5mV PHONO signal from a cartridge to a 300mV LINE level signal. A phono preamp has a completely different purpose than a headphone amplifier.
While it may be possible to use a headphone amp as a preamp if it is capable of driving down to around 16 Ohms or lower, it is not recommended because it can result in out-of-balance sound with lots of noise and distortion. If you’re looking for an all-in-one solution, there are headphone amplifiers with built-in phono preamps available on the market that allow you to connect your turntable directly to the headphone amp without the need for a separate preamp.
The Challenges Of Using A Headphone Amp As A Phono Preamp
One of the main challenges of using a headphone amp as a phono preamp is that it lacks the necessary RIAA equalization. This means that the sound will be unbalanced and distorted, as the headphone amp is not designed to work with the low voltage output signal from a phono cartridge.
Additionally, headphone amps are not designed to work with the high impedance of most phono cartridges. They typically have an output impedance that is much higher than the input impedance of most headphones, which can result in poor audio quality and a much quieter signal.
Another challenge is that using a headphone amp as a phono preamp requires additional equipment, such as a separate phono preamp, to boost the signal before it reaches the headphone amp. This can add complexity to your setup and may require additional cables and connections.
Necessary Equipment For Using A Headphone Amp As A Phono Preamp
If you’re determined to use your headphone amp as a phono preamp, there are some necessary pieces of equipment you’ll need to make it work.
Firstly, you’ll need a separate phono preamp that is compatible with your turntable. The preamp will take the low-level analog signal from your turntable and boost it to line level, which is necessary for connecting to a headphone amp.
Once you have a compatible phono preamp, you’ll need to connect the output of the preamp to the input of your headphone amp. This can be done using RCA cables, with the output of the preamp going into the input of the headphone amp.
It’s important to note that not all headphone amps are capable of driving down to 16 Ohms or lower, which is necessary for using it as a preamp. Make sure to check the specifications of your headphone amp before attempting to use it in this way.
Additionally, it’s important to ensure that the output level of your preamp matches the input sensitivity of your headphone amp. If the levels are not matched correctly, you may experience distortion or other sound quality issues.
Step-by-Step Guide To Using A Headphone Amp As A Phono Preamp
While using a headphone amp as a phono preamp is not recommended, it is still possible to do so with the right equipment. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to use a headphone amp as a phono preamp:
1. Connect your turntable to a separate phono preamp using RCA cables.
2. Connect the output of the preamp to the input of the headphone amp using an RCA cable.
3. Turn on your equipment and adjust the volume levels accordingly.
It’s important to note that this setup may not provide optimal sound quality, and you may experience noise and distortion. If you’re looking for a better solution, consider investing in a headphone amplifier with a built-in phono preamp.
Tips For Achieving The Best Sound Quality With A Headphone Amp As A Phono Preamp
If you’re using a headphone amp as a phono preamp, there are a few tips to keep in mind to achieve the best sound quality possible.
First, make sure that the headphone amp is capable of driving down to around 16 Ohms or lower. This will ensure that it can properly handle the low voltage output signal from your phono cartridge.
Next, connect your turntable to a separate phono preamp and then connect the output of the preamp to the input of the headphone amp. This will ensure that the signal is properly amplified and equalized before being sent to your headphones.
It’s also important to choose high-quality components for your setup. Look for a well-regarded phono preamp and a high-quality headphone amp to ensure that you’re getting the best sound possible.
Finally, take care when adjusting the volume on your setup. Because you’re using a headphone amp as a preamp, it may be tempting to turn up the volume to get more sound out of your headphones. However, this can lead to distortion and other issues. Instead, adjust the volume carefully and listen for any signs of distortion or other problems.
By following these tips, you can use a headphone amp as a phono preamp with confidence, knowing that you’re getting the best possible sound quality from your vinyl collection.
