Vinyl records have made a huge comeback in recent years, and for good reason. The warm, rich sound of vinyl is hard to beat.
However, if you have a modern receiver without a phono input, you might be wondering how to connect your turntable to it. Don’t worry, there are solutions!
In this article, we’ll explore two methods for connecting your turntable without a phono input: using an external phono preamp or using a turntable with a built-in phono preamp. We’ll also discuss the benefits of each method and provide some affordable product recommendations.
So, let’s dive in and get your vinyl playing on your modern stereo system!
How Do You Connect A Turntable Without Phono Input
There are two main ways to connect a turntable to a modern receiver without a phono input: using an external phono preamp or using a turntable with a built-in phono preamp.
If you choose to use an external phono preamp, you’ll need to connect the audio and ground wires from your turntable to the phono preamp. Then, you’ll need to connect the output of the phono preamp to an available line-level input on your receiver, such as AUX, DVD, CD, or TUNER.
It’s important to note that when using an external phono preamp, you should connect it to a line-level input rather than a phono input on your receiver. This is because the output signal from the phono preamp is stronger and can overload the phono input.
If you choose to use a turntable with a built-in phono preamp, you can simply connect the audio and ground wires from your turntable directly to an available line-level input on your receiver.
Both methods have their benefits. Using an external phono preamp allows for more flexibility in choosing the specific preamp that best suits your needs and budget. It also allows for upgrades or replacements of the preamp without having to replace the entire turntable.
On the other hand, using a turntable with a built-in phono preamp is more convenient and eliminates the need for an additional piece of equipment. It’s also a good option for those who are new to vinyl and don’t want to invest in multiple pieces of equipment.
When it comes to affordable product recommendations, some great options for external phono preamps include the ART DJPREII Phono Preamplifier and the Pyle Phono Turntable Preamp. For turntables with built-in phono preamps, we recommend the Audio-Technica AT-LP60XBT Fully Automatic Wireless Belt-Drive Stereo Turntable or the Sony PS-LX310BT Belt Drive Turntable.
Why Modern Receivers Often Lack A Phono Input
Modern receivers often lack a phono input because the popularity of vinyl records declined in the 1990s with the advent of CDs. As a result, manufacturers began to remove phono preamps from their receivers, assuming that consumers would not need them anymore. For about 20 years, from 1995 to 2015, most receivers did not include a phono preamp. However, with the resurgence of vinyl in recent years, manufacturers have started to include phono preamps in their receivers once again.
Another reason why modern receivers may not have a phono input is that many turntables now come with built-in phono preamps. This means that consumers can connect their turntables directly to an available line-level input on their receiver without the need for an external phono preamp or a phono input on the receiver.
Despite the lack of a phono input on modern receivers, there are still ways to connect a turntable without one, as discussed earlier in this article. By using an external phono preamp or a turntable with a built-in phono preamp, consumers can still enjoy their vinyl records on their modern audio systems.
Method 1: Using An External Phono Preamp
Using an external phono preamp is a great option for those who already have a turntable without a built-in preamp or for those who want more control over the specific preamp they use. To connect your turntable to a receiver without a phono input using an external preamp, follow these steps:
Step 1: Turn everything off and unplug all components.
Step 2: Connect the audio and ground wires from your turntable to the inputs on the phono preamp. Make sure to connect the white and red RCA cables to the corresponding inputs and the ground wire to the grounding post on the preamp.
Step 3: Connect the output of the phono preamp to an available line-level input on your receiver using a separate set of RCA cables. It’s important to connect the preamp to a line-level input rather than a phono input on your receiver because the output signal from the phono preamp is stronger and can overload the phono input.
Step 4: Turn everything back on and select the input connector on your receiver that corresponds to where you connected your turntable.
Using an external phono preamp allows for more flexibility in choosing the specific preamp that best suits your needs and budget. It’s also a good option if you already have a turntable without a built-in preamp or if you want to upgrade or replace your current preamp without having to replace the entire turntable.
Method 2: Using A Turntable With A Built-in Phono Preamp
If you choose to use a turntable with a built-in phono preamp, you can simplify the process of connecting your turntable to a modern receiver without a phono input. This method eliminates the need for an external phono preamp and allows you to connect the audio and ground wires from your turntable directly to an available line-level input on your receiver.
One of the main benefits of using a turntable with a built-in phono preamp is that it eliminates the need for an additional piece of equipment. This is especially convenient for those who are new to vinyl and don’t want to invest in multiple pieces of equipment. Additionally, using a turntable with a built-in phono preamp can be more cost-effective than purchasing an external preamp.
When choosing a turntable with a built-in phono preamp, it’s important to consider factors such as sound quality, ease of use, and connectivity options. Some popular options include the Audio-Technica AT-LP60XBT Fully Automatic Wireless Belt-Drive Stereo Turntable and the Sony PS-LX310BT Belt Drive Turntable.
The Audio-Technica AT-LP60XBT features fully automatic operation and Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to stream music wirelessly from your turntable to any Bluetooth-enabled speaker or headphones. It also has a built-in switchable phono preamp and comes with a detachable RCA output cable.
The Sony PS-LX310BT offers easy wireless connectivity via Bluetooth, as well as traditional wired connections via RCA cables. It also features a built-in phono preamp, automatic tonearm operation, and a lightweight yet sturdy design.
Benefits Of Each Method
Each method of connecting a turntable without phono input has its own set of benefits. Using an external phono preamp allows for more customization and flexibility in choosing the specific preamp that best suits your needs and budget. It also allows for upgrades or replacements of the preamp without having to replace the entire turntable. This method is ideal for those who already own a turntable without a built-in preamp and want to improve their audio quality without investing in a new turntable.
On the other hand, using a turntable with a built-in phono preamp is more convenient and eliminates the need for an additional piece of equipment. This method is ideal for those who are new to vinyl and don’t want to invest in multiple pieces of equipment. It’s also a great option for those who have limited space or want a simpler setup.
Ultimately, the choice between using an external phono preamp or a turntable with a built-in phono preamp will depend on your personal preferences and needs. Both methods can provide high-quality sound when properly set up, so it’s important to choose the one that works best for you.
Affordable Product Recommendations
If you’re looking for an affordable external phono preamp, the ART DJPREII Phono Preamplifier is a great option. It’s compact and easy to use, and has adjustable gain settings for optimal sound quality. Another good option is the Pyle Phono Turntable Preamp, which is budget-friendly and also features adjustable gain control.
For those who prefer a turntable with a built-in phono preamp, the Audio-Technica AT-LP60XBT Fully Automatic Wireless Belt-Drive Stereo Turntable is a great choice. It’s easy to set up and use, and has Bluetooth connectivity for wireless streaming. Another option is the Sony PS-LX310BT Belt Drive Turntable, which also features Bluetooth connectivity and a sleek design. Both of these turntables are affordable and offer great sound quality.
Final Thoughts And Conclusion
In conclusion, connecting a turntable to a modern receiver without a phono input is not as difficult as it may seem. By using either an external phono preamp or a turntable with a built-in phono preamp, you can enjoy your vinyl collection without any hassle.
When deciding which method to use, consider your personal preferences and budget. If you want more flexibility and control over your preamp, an external phono preamp may be the way to go. However, if convenience and simplicity are your top priorities, a turntable with a built-in preamp is the better option.
Regardless of which method you choose, make sure to follow the proper steps for connecting the audio and ground wires to ensure optimal sound quality. And don’t forget to invest in high-quality RCA cables and speaker wire for the best listening experience possible.
Overall, with the right equipment and a little bit of know-how, you can easily connect your turntable to your receiver and enjoy the warm, rich sound of vinyl records.
