If you’re a vinyl enthusiast, you’ve probably heard of a phono input. But what exactly is it, and why is it important?
In short, a phono input is an audio input that allows you to connect your turntable to your receiver or amplifier. But there’s more to it than that.
In this article, we’ll dive into the details of what a phono input is, how it works, and why it’s essential for getting the best sound out of your vinyl collection.
So sit back, relax, and get ready to learn all about phono inputs in receivers.
What Is Phono Input In A Receiver
A phono input is a specialized audio input that is designed to accept signals from analog turntables. Unlike other audio inputs, a phono input is specifically tailored to boost and add RIAA equalization to the signal from a turntable, which recreates the original sound of the recording.
Phonograph recordings are made with high frequencies boosted and low frequencies attenuated. During playback, the frequency response changes are reversed, which reduces background noise and conserves physical space needed for each groove. This is accomplished in the amplifier with a phono input that incorporates standardized RIAA equalization circuitry.
Most A/V receivers also have this type of input to increase the number of sound options available. Think of it this way: similar to how you might use an HDMI input to improve on the video quality available through an RCA connection, the same quality upgrade is possible with modern audio inputs.
To improve audio quality over what’s available using a line input, using a phono input will bring a more high-fidelity sonic experience when listening to vinyl records on a turntable.
The Basics: What Is A Phono Input?
A phono input is a type of audio input that is specifically designed to handle the low-level signal output from a turntable’s phono cartridge. Unlike line inputs, which are intended to handle higher-level signals from other audio sources such as CD players or tape decks, phono inputs are tailored to boost and shape the sound from a turntable’s phono cartridge.
This is because the signal generated by a record player requires particular care and a dedicated input on the amplifier. The signal read out by the pickup and encoded as electrical pulses is too weak to be processed directly by the amplifier, meaning that a pre-amplifier is necessary. If the amplifier or receiver has a phono input, this means that a pre-amplifier is already integrated.
Phonograph recordings are made with high frequencies boosted and low frequencies attenuated, and during playback, the frequency response changes are reversed. This reduces background noise and conserves physical space needed for each groove. The phono input circuitry boosts the signal and provides the RIAA equalization necessary to restore the original sound.
It’s important to note that if your turntable is switchable to a line output, then it has a built-in phono preamp and you have the option to go straight to an input labeled “line” or “aux” on your amplifier or receiver. However, using a phono input will bring a more high-fidelity sonic experience when listening to vinyl records on a turntable.
The Importance Of Phono Inputs For Vinyl Enthusiasts
For vinyl enthusiasts, a phono input is an essential feature in any amplifier or receiver. Without it, the signal from a turntable would be too weak and distorted to produce high-quality sound.
A phono input is specifically designed to handle the low-level signal output from a turntable’s phono cartridge, which has a much lower output level and a different frequency response compared with other audio sources. The phono-level signal from your turntable requires additional amplification and equalization compared to line inputs to properly boost and shape the sound from a turntable’s phono cartridge.
Phono inputs on amplifiers and receivers are expecting this very low, tinny signal, and will perform the task of boosting and balancing the signal so that it’s suitable for playback. This task is performed by a phono preamp, which is integrated into the phono input.
Vinyl lovers everywhere have been riding high on the revival of the record player which in turn throws a small spotlight back on the humble phono stage. Adding a dedicated external phono stage can further enhance the sound quality of vinyl records by providing additional amplification and reducing noise levels.
In short, for those who want to experience high-quality sound when listening to vinyl records, a phono input is essential. It allows for proper amplification and equalization of the low-level signal from a turntable’s phono cartridge, resulting in a more high-fidelity sonic experience.
How A Phono Input Works
A phono input is a set of input jacks located on the rear panel of a preamp, mixer or amplifier, specifically designed to accept signals from analog turntables. The signal from a turntable is very low level, typically only a few millivolts, which is not strong enough to drive an amplifier or receiver. That’s why a phono input has a little amplifier built into it that boosts the signal to normal line level, which is the same electrical level as other components like CD players.
However, the signal from a turntable can get complicated because of how phonograph recordings are made. High frequencies are boosted while low frequencies are attenuated. During playback, the frequency response changes are reversed, which reduces background noise and conserves physical space needed for each groove. This is where RIAA equalization comes in. A phono input incorporates standardized RIAA equalization circuitry that restores the original sound of the recording.
To use a phono input, you simply plug your turntable’s audio signal cable into the receiver’s phono input and attach the turntable’s ground wire to the receiver’s ground terminal. This helps prevent any “hum” or noise coming from your turntable from playing through your system.
It’s important to note that some turntables only output a phono signal while others have a switch at the back that lets you switch between phono and line. Turntables with a phono/line switch have a built-in phono preamp. On a stereo receiver or powered speakers, you might have both phono and line inputs.
The Difference Between Phono Inputs And Other Audio Inputs
One of the main differences between phono inputs and other audio inputs is the level and frequency response of the signal. While line inputs are intended to handle higher-level signals that come from other audio sources such as a CD player or tape deck, phono inputs on hi-fi equipment are specifically designed to handle the low-level signal output from a turntable’s phono cartridge.
The phono-level signal from a turntable requires additional amplification and equalization compared to line inputs to properly boost and shape the sound from a turntable’s phono cartridge, which has a much lower output level and a different frequency response compared with other audio sources. Phono inputs on amplifiers and receivers are expecting this very low, tinny signal, and will perform the task of boosting and balancing the signal so that it’s suitable for playback.
This task is performed by a phono preamp, which can be inside the turntable, a standalone unit, or inside the stereo receiver or powered speakers. On the other hand, line inputs do not require this additional amplification or equalization. They are intended for higher-level signals that come from sources like CD players or tape decks.
It’s important to note that some turntables have a switch at the back that lets us switch between PHONO and LINE, indicating that they have a built-in phono preamp. If your turntable only outputs a PHONO signal, then you will need an external phono preamp or amplifier with a built-in phono preamp to properly boost and balance the signal before it can be played back on your receiver.
Tips For Setting Up Your Turntable With A Phono Input
Setting up your turntable with a phono input can be a bit tricky, but with the right guidance, you can have a high-quality listening experience. Here are some tips to help you set up your turntable with a phono input:
1. Check if your turntable has a built-in phono preamp: Some turntables come with a built-in phono preamp, which means you can connect them directly to the phono input on your receiver. However, if your turntable doesn’t have a built-in phono preamp, you’ll need to connect an external one between the turntable and the receiver.
2. Connect the audio cables: To connect your turntable to the phono input, use RCA cables to connect the turntable’s audio output to the RCA jacks labeled “In” or “Input” on the phono preamp. Then, connect a separate pair of RCA cables from the RCA jacks labeled “Out” or “Output” on the phono preamp to the aux or CD input on your receiver.
3. Ground wire: If your turntable has a ground wire, make sure to connect it to the grounding post on the phono preamp to avoid any unwanted hum or noise.
4. Power supply: Don’t forget to connect the phono preamp to its power supply.
5. Adjust settings: Once everything is connected, adjust the settings on your turntable and receiver as necessary. Make sure to select the correct speed for the record you’re playing and adjust the tracking weight and anti-skate dial as needed.
By following these tips, you can ensure a high-quality listening experience when using a turntable with a phono input.
Conclusion: Why You Need A Phono Input For Your Vinyl Collection
In conclusion, if you are a vinyl enthusiast, having a phono input on your receiver or amplifier is essential to get the best possible sound quality from your turntable. A phono input is specifically designed to boost and equalize the signal from a turntable, which results in a more accurate and faithful reproduction of the original recording. Without a phono input, the signal from a turntable would be too weak to be processed directly by the amplifier, resulting in a low-quality audio output.
Moreover, using a phono input will provide a more immersive and authentic listening experience, as it preserves the unique sound characteristics of vinyl records. With the right setup, you can enjoy the warmth, depth, and clarity of vinyl recordings in all their glory.
Whether you are a casual listener or an audiophile, investing in a quality turntable with a built-in phono preamp and connecting it to a receiver or amplifier with a dedicated phono input will take your vinyl collection to the next level. So, if you want to fully appreciate the beauty of vinyl records, make sure to include a phono input in your audio setup.
