Are you new to the world of turntables and vinyl records?
Have you ever wondered what a phono output is and how it differs from a line output?
If so, you’re not alone. The terminology can be confusing, but understanding the difference is crucial for getting the best sound quality from your turntable.
In this article, we’ll break down what a phono output is, why it needs to be converted to a line level signal, and how to properly set up your turntable for optimal listening.
So sit back, relax, and let’s dive into the world of phono outputs.
What Is A Phono Output
A phono output is a type of audio signal that is produced by a turntable. Unlike other audio sources, such as CD players or digital music files, vinyl records produce a much weaker signal that requires special processing to be properly amplified and played through speakers.
The reason for this is due to the way vinyl records are created. In order to fit all the music onto the record, the bass frequencies are reduced and the high frequencies are boosted during the recording process. This is known as RIAA equalization.
When the record is played back on a turntable, the opposite process needs to occur in order to reproduce the original audio. This is where a phono preamp comes in.
A phono preamp is a device that converts the weak phono signal into a line level signal, which can then be properly amplified and played through speakers or other audio equipment. Some turntables have a built-in phono preamp, while others require an external one to be connected.
Understanding The Basics: What Is A Phono Output?
To understand what a phono output is, it’s important to know the difference between line and phono signals. While they share the same RCA connectors, the level and frequency response of the signals are different.
Phono inputs on audio equipment are specifically designed to handle the low-level signal output from a turntable’s phono cartridge, while line inputs are intended to handle higher-level signals that come from other audio sources such as a CD player or tape deck.
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.
This is where a phono preamp comes in. A phono preamp is a device that amplifies and equalizes the phono signal, making it suitable for input into a receiver or stereo amplifier. Without a phono preamp, the sound from a turntable would be very low in level, and would have too much treble and not enough bass.
Phono preamps can come in three forms: an integrated preamp built into the turntable, an external preamp device, or a phono input on a receiver or amplifier. If your turntable has an integrated phono preamp, you can connect it directly to your receiver or amplifier. If you need an external one, then connect your turntable to the preamp and the output of preamp to the receiver or amplifier. If your receiver has a phono input, you can connect your turntable directly to it.
Why Does A Phono Output Need To Be Converted To Line Level?
A phono output needs to be converted to line level because of the differences in signal strength and frequency response. As mentioned earlier, the phono signal from a turntable is much weaker than a line-level signal from other audio sources such as CD players. This means that if the phono signal is not properly amplified, the resulting sound will be very quiet and lacking in bass frequencies.
In addition, the RIAA equalization process used during vinyl record creation means that the phono signal has a different frequency response compared to other audio sources. This means that the signal needs to be equalized again during playback to properly reproduce the original audio.
Converting the phono output to line level using a phono preamp allows for proper amplification and equalization of the signal, resulting in a high-quality sound that can be played through speakers or other audio equipment. Without this conversion, the phono signal would not be suitable for playback and would result in a poor listening experience.
The Importance Of Properly Setting Up Your Turntable
Properly setting up your turntable is crucial to ensure that the phono output signal is accurately converted to a line level signal. One important aspect of this is setting the tracking force, which is the amount of pressure the phono cartridge puts on your records.
If the tracking force is too little, the cartridge may bounce and skip, while too much force can wear out your stylus and records too quickly. Different cartridges are designed to apply different amounts of tracking force, and you want to make sure your turntable’s tonearm is set up to apply the correct amount for the cartridge you’re using, which is usually specified in grams somewhere in the owner’s manual.
To properly adjust the tracking force, it is recommended to use a dedicated scale. This will ensure that you are applying the correct amount of force and will prevent any potential damage to your records or stylus. The most accurate way to adjust the tracking force is with a dedicated scale, such as the Riverstone Audio scale, which includes two calibration weights so you can make sure it’s accurate.
In addition to setting the tracking force, it is also important to consider other factors when setting up your turntable, such as whether it is direct drive or belt driven, manual or automatic, and whether you need a preamplifier or not. By taking the time to properly set up your turntable, you can ensure that you are getting the best possible sound quality from your vinyl records.
How To Connect Your Turntable To Your Audio System
Connecting your turntable to your audio system can seem daunting, but it’s actually quite simple. Here are some steps to follow:
1. Determine if your turntable has a built-in phono preamp. If it does, you can connect it directly to your audio system using RCA cables. If not, you will need to purchase an external phono preamp.
2. Locate the phono input on your audio system. This is typically labeled as “PHONO” and may have a grounding post nearby.
3. Connect the RCA cables from your turntable’s audio output to the phono input on your audio system. Make sure to match the red and white cables to the corresponding inputs on both the turntable and the audio system.
4. If your turntable has a grounding wire, connect it to the grounding post near the phono input on your audio system. This will help reduce any unwanted noise or hum.
5. Turn on your audio system and select the appropriate input source for your turntable.
6. Adjust the volume on your audio system and enjoy your vinyl records!
If your audio system does not have a phono input, you will need to connect an external phono preamp between the turntable and the audio system. Follow the same steps as above, but connect the RCA cables from the external phono preamp’s output to an available input on your audio system (such as “AUX” or “CD”).
Keep in mind that some higher-end turntables may require more specialized connections or additional equipment, so be sure to consult your turntable’s manual or do some research before making any connections.
Final Thoughts: Enjoying Your Vinyl Records To The Fullest
To fully enjoy your vinyl records, it’s important to understand the role of a phono preamp and how it can impact the sound quality of your turntable setup.
Firstly, it’s important to ensure that your turntable has a phono output and that it is connected to a phono preamp. Without this, the audio signal will be too weak to be properly amplified and played through speakers.
When selecting a phono preamp, it’s important to consider factors such as gain, noise level, and frequency response. A good quality preamp can greatly improve the sound quality of your vinyl records by providing a clean and accurate signal for amplification.
Additionally, it’s important to properly set up your turntable and speakers in order to achieve optimal sound quality. This includes proper placement of speakers, alignment of the stylus, and ensuring that the turntable is level.
By taking these steps and investing in a good quality phono preamp, you can fully enjoy the unique warmth and depth of sound that vinyl records have to offer.
