Vinyl records have made a comeback in recent years, and many music lovers are looking for ways to integrate their turntables into their modern sound systems.
If you’re a Sonos user, you may be wondering if the Sonos Amp has a phono preamp built-in, or if you need to purchase one separately.
In this article, we’ll explore the answer to this question and provide some tips on how to connect your turntable to your Sonos system for the best possible sound quality.
So, let’s dive in and find out if the Sonos Amp has a phono preamp!
Does Sonos Amp Have A Phono Preamp
The short answer is no, the Sonos Amp does not have a phono preamp built-in. This means that if you want to connect your turntable to your Sonos system, you will need to purchase a separate phono preamp.
A phono preamp is an essential component for playing vinyl records. It amplifies the low-level signal from the turntable’s cartridge and applies the RIAA equalization curve to restore the original sound of the recording.
Without a phono preamp, your vinyl records will sound quiet and dull, lacking the warmth and richness that makes them so appealing.
Fortunately, there are many high-quality phono preamps available on the market that are compatible with the Sonos Amp. Some popular options include the Pro-Ject Phono Box DC, Schiit Mani 2, and IFi Zen Phono.
What Is A Phono Preamp And Why Do You Need One?
A phono preamp, also known as a phono stage or preamplifier, is a device that amplifies the signal from a turntable’s cartridge to a level that can be properly played through an audio system. Vinyl records produce a very low-level signal that needs to be boosted in order to be heard properly.
Additionally, the phono preamp applies the RIAA equalization curve to the signal. This curve is necessary because vinyl records are cut with a bass-heavy and treble-light sound in order to fit more music on the record. The RIAA equalization curve restores the original sound of the recording.
Without a phono preamp, your turntable’s output will be too weak to be properly played through your audio system. The sound will be quiet and lacking in detail, with little warmth or richness that is characteristic of vinyl playback.
Therefore, if you want to play vinyl records on your Sonos system, you will need to purchase a separate phono preamp. This will allow you to enjoy the full range of sound that vinyl has to offer.
Understanding The Sonos Amp And Its Features
The Sonos Amp is a powerful amplifier that is designed to deliver high-quality sound to your speakers. It offers a range of features that make it a versatile and convenient option for music lovers.
One of the standout features of the Sonos Amp is its support for Apple AirPlay 2, which allows you to stream music from your iPhone or iPad directly to your Sonos system. With access to over 100 streaming services, including music, podcasts, radio, and audiobooks, the Sonos Amp offers a wealth of listening options.
In addition to its streaming capabilities, the Sonos Amp also supports voice control through Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant. This means that you can use your voice to play music on any of the speakers connected to your Sonos system, as well as control other smart home devices.
Another key feature of the Sonos Amp is Trueplay tuning. This software feature allows you to tune your speakers to the acoustics of your room using the Sonos app. While not all speakers are compatible with Trueplay tuning, the Sonos In-Wall by Sonance and Sonos In-Ceiling by Sonance can benefit from this feature when connected to the Sonos Amp.
The Sonos Amp is also designed to fit seamlessly into your home entertainment setup. It can be incorporated into smart home setups thanks to improved APIs and deeper integrations with Sonos platform partners like Creston. This means that you can control your music and smart home devices with a single button.
In terms of connectivity, the Sonos Amp offers a pair of threaded connections for left and right channels. These connections are standard diameters so they can be removed and replaced with banana plugs. The Sonos app also offers the option to switch off Wi-Fi if you are connecting your Sonos Amp directly to an ethernet cable.
Connecting Your Turntable To The Sonos Amp
Connecting your turntable to the Sonos Amp is a straightforward process, but it does require a few steps. First, you will need to obtain a phono preamp that is compatible with the Sonos Amp. Once you have the preamp, follow these steps:
1. Take the audio cable that comes with your Sonos Amp and plug one end into the back of your turntable (or preamp, if it is not built-in).
2. Plug the other end of the cable into the corresponding colors of the L/R audio inputs on the Sonos Amp.
3. Connect your speakers to the Sonos Amp.
It’s important to note that most new turntables have built-in preamps, so if yours does, you can plug it directly into the Sonos Amp without needing an additional preamp. If your turntable does not have a built-in preamp, you will need to plug it into a separate preamp before connecting it to the Sonos Amp.
Once you have everything set up, you can enjoy your vinyl records through your Sonos system with high-quality sound and all the convenience of wireless streaming. The Sonos Amp also gives you more control over your sound, allowing you to adjust bass, treble, and loudness to your liking.
Tips For Optimizing Sound Quality When Using A Turntable With Sonos Amp
When using a turntable with Sonos Amp, there are a few tips you can follow to optimize the sound quality:
1. Use a high-quality phono preamp: As mentioned earlier, a phono preamp is essential for playing vinyl records. Invest in a good quality preamp that is compatible with the Sonos Amp to ensure that you get the best sound quality possible.
2. Adjust the audio delay: As explained in the raw text above, there may be a one-to-two second delay when playing vinyl records on Sonos Amp. You can adjust the audio delay within the Sonos app to minimize this delay and ensure that the music starts playing as soon as the stylus hits the record.
3. Use high-quality cables: The cables you use to connect your turntable and speakers to the Sonos Amp can have a significant impact on sound quality. Invest in high-quality cables that are designed for use with turntables and speakers to ensure that you get the best possible sound.
4. Keep your turntable clean: Dust and dirt can accumulate on your turntable over time, which can affect sound quality. Make sure to clean your turntable regularly using a soft brush or cloth to remove any debris and keep it in top condition.
By following these tips, you can ensure that you get the best possible sound quality when using a turntable with Sonos Amp.
Alternatives To The Sonos Amp For Turntable Integration.
While the Sonos Amp is a popular choice for integrating a turntable into your Sonos system, there are other alternatives available. One option is the Sonos Connect, which has a line-in port that allows you to connect your turntable to your existing speakers. The Sonos Connect also has a built-in preamp, so you don’t need to purchase a separate one.
Another alternative is the Sonos Port, which is similar to the Sonos Connect but also includes AirPlay 2 support and a digital output for connecting to high-end audio systems.
If you already have a receiver or amplifier with a phono input, you can also use the Sonos Connect:Amp to power your speakers and connect your turntable. The Connect:Amp has a built-in amplifier and can power up to four speakers.
Finally, if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, you can connect a Bluetooth turntable to a Sonos speaker with Bluetooth capabilities, such as the Sonos Roam. This allows you to stream your vinyl records wirelessly to your Sonos system without needing any additional components.
No matter which alternative you choose, make sure to check the compatibility and features before making your purchase.
