If you’re new to the world of vinyl records and turntables, you may have noticed a mysterious input on your stereo labeled “phono.”
What does it mean? Why is it different from other inputs like “CD” or “AUX”?
In this article, we’ll explore the world of phono inputs and explain why they’re essential for getting the best sound out of your vinyl collection.
From RIAA equalization to phono preamps, we’ll cover everything you need to know to understand what phono means on a stereo.
So sit back, grab your favorite record, and let’s dive in!
What Does Phono Mean On A Stereo
Phono is short for phonograph, which is another word for turntable. A phono input is a specialized audio input that is designed to accept signals from analog turntables. Unlike other inputs like “CD” or “AUX,” a phono input requires additional circuitry to boost and equalize the signal from the turntable.
When vinyl records are recorded, the higher frequencies are boosted and the lower frequencies are reduced. This is done to conserve physical space on the record and reduce audible background noise. During playback, the frequency response is reversed to restore the original sound. This process is called RIAA equalization and it requires specialized circuitry that is built into phono inputs.
Without a phono input, the signal from a turntable would be too weak and would not have the correct frequency response. This would result in a very quiet and distorted sound. To solve this problem, many turntables come with a built-in phono preamp that can boost and equalize the signal before it reaches the stereo. Alternatively, you can purchase a standalone phono preamp that can be connected between your turntable and stereo.
What Is A Phono Input And Why Is It Different?
A phono input is a specialized type of audio input that is specifically designed to accept signals from analog turntables. Unlike other inputs like “CD” or “AUX,” a phono input requires additional circuitry to boost and equalize the signal from the turntable.
The reason for this is because vinyl records are recorded with a unique frequency response. The higher frequencies are boosted while the lower frequencies are reduced. This is done to conserve physical space on the record and reduce audible background noise. However, during playback, the frequency response needs to be reversed to restore the original sound. This process is called RIAA equalization and it requires specialized circuitry that is built into phono inputs.
Without a phono input, the signal from a turntable would be too weak and would not have the correct frequency response. This would result in a very quiet and distorted sound. To solve this problem, many turntables come with a built-in phono preamp that can boost and equalize the signal before it reaches the stereo. Alternatively, you can purchase a standalone phono preamp that can be connected between your turntable and stereo.
It’s important to note that a phono input is different from other types of inputs because it requires additional circuitry to properly amplify and equalize the signal from a turntable. Other inputs like “CD” or “AUX” do not require this specialized circuitry because they are designed to accept line-level signals, which are much stronger than the signal produced by a turntable cartridge. Therefore, if you want to listen to vinyl records on your stereo, you will need to use a phono input or a standalone phono preamp to properly amplify and equalize the signal.
The History Of Phono Inputs And Vinyl Records
The history of phono inputs and vinyl records dates back to the late 19th century when Thomas Edison invented the phonograph in 1877. This device used a stylus to record sound waves onto a rotating cylinder, which could then be played back by tracing the grooves with the same stylus. This was the first time that sound could be recorded and played back, and it revolutionized the way people experienced music.
In the 1880s, Alexander Graham Bell’s Volta Laboratory made several improvements to the phonograph, including the use of wax-coated cardboard cylinders and a cutting stylus that moved from side to side in a zigzag groove around the record. These improvements led to the development of disc record players, which used flat discs with a spiral groove running from the periphery to near the center. Emile Berliner coined the term “gramophone” for these disc record players, which became popular in many languages.
Over time, improvements were made to the turntable and its drive system, the stylus or needle, pickup system, and the sound and equalization systems. The disc phonograph record became the dominant commercial audio recording format throughout most of the 20th century. In the 1960s, 8-track cartridges and cassette tapes were introduced as alternatives, but records remained popular with audiophiles, DJs, collectors, and turntablists.
As technology advanced in the 1980s, phonograph use declined sharply due to the popularity of cassettes and the rise of compact discs. However, records have undergone a revival since the 2000s with renewed interest in vinyl’s warm sound quality and unique physical experience. As a result, phono inputs have become increasingly important for modern stereo systems that want to cater to vinyl enthusiasts. These inputs are designed to accept signals from analog turntables and provide specialized circuitry to boost and equalize the signal for optimal sound quality.
RIAA Equalization: Why It Matters For Vinyl Playback
RIAA equalization is a crucial aspect of vinyl playback that ensures the correct frequency response and sound quality. During the recording process, the RIAA equalization curve is applied to the audio signal, which reduces low frequencies and boosts high frequencies. This allows for longer recording times, improved sound quality, and reduced groove damage during playback.
When playing back a vinyl record, the inverse RIAA equalization curve must be applied to the signal to restore the original sound. This is where the phono input and its built-in RIAA preamp come into play. The preamp applies the correct equalization curve to the signal, ensuring that the sound is balanced and accurate.
Without RIAA equalization, vinyl playback would be nearly impossible. The frequency response would be incorrect, resulting in distorted and unbalanced sound. That’s why it’s important to use a phono input with built-in RIAA preamp or a standalone phono preamp to ensure that your turntable is properly set up for vinyl playback.
The Role Of A Phono Preamp In Amplifying Vinyl Signals
A phono preamp, also known as a phono stage, is an essential component in any vinyl playback system. Its primary function is to amplify the weak signal generated by the turntable’s cartridge and apply RIAA equalization to restore the original sound.
The signal generated by a phono cartridge is extremely low-level and requires a significant boost in gain to match the levels of other audio sources. However, simply applying gain is not enough. The RIAA equalization curve must also be applied to the signal to restore the original sound. This curve reduces the low frequencies and boosts the high frequencies during recording, and the opposite must be done during playback to restore the original sound.
An external phono preamp is typically preferred over a built-in one because it has better shielding from interference and its own power supply, which prevents it from sharing power with other components in the system. This reduces electrical noise and interference, resulting in better sound quality.
How To Connect A Turntable To A Stereo With A Phono Input
Connecting a turntable to a stereo with a phono input is a straightforward process that involves just a few steps. Here’s how to do it:
1. First, place your turntable next to your stereo receiver. It’s best to use an entertainment cabinet or shelving system that can reduce vibrations and shaking.
2. Connect the RCA-type stereo cable that came with your turntable to the output of your turntable. If your turntable did not come with one, you can purchase a quality RCA-type stereo cable from most retailers.
3. Look at the back of your stereo receiver and locate the phono input labeled “PHONO.” This is where you will connect the output cable from your turntable. If your turntable has a ground wire, connect it to the metal post labeled “GND” located below the phono input. This will help prevent any noise or hum from playing through your system.
4. If your turntable has a built-in phono preamp, make sure to switch it off or set it to “Thru.” This will ensure that both preamps are not running at once, and that the receiver’s EQ will be used instead.
5. Finally, check the input setting on the front display of your stereo receiver so that its name matches the rear panel input you used for connection. This will ensure that you can hear vinyl playing back from your turntable.
Troubleshooting Common Phono Input Issues And Solutions
While phono inputs are designed to provide a high-quality listening experience for vinyl records, there are some common issues that can arise. Here are some troubleshooting tips and solutions:
1. Crackling or popping sounds: If you hear crackling or popping sounds while playing a record, this may be due to scratches or dust on the record. Clean your records regularly and handle them with care to avoid scratches. Additionally, check your cables and make sure they are securely connected.
2. Low volume: If the volume from your turntable is too low, this may be due to a mismatch between the turntable’s output and the phono input’s sensitivity. Check if your turntable has a built-in preamp that can be turned on to boost the signal. Alternatively, you can purchase a standalone preamp that matches your turntable’s output.
3. Hum or buzz: If you hear a humming or buzzing sound from your speakers, this may be caused by a grounding issue. Make sure your turntable’s ground wire is properly connected to the phono input’s grounding terminal. If this does not solve the issue, try moving your turntable away from other electronic devices that may be causing interference.
By following these troubleshooting tips and solutions, you can ensure that your phono input provides a high-quality listening experience for your vinyl records.
