Vinyl records have made a comeback in recent years, and with that comes the need for a phono preamp.
But what exactly is a phono preamp, and why do you need one?
In this article, we’ll break down the basics of phono preamps and how they work to enhance your vinyl listening experience.
Whether you’re a seasoned audiophile or new to the world of vinyl, read on to learn everything you need to know about phono preamps for turntables.
What Is A Phono Preamp For Turntable
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 signal from a turntable to a level that can be received by an audio system.
When vinyl was the primary format for audio recording, phono stages were built into receivers and amplifiers, allowing for direct connection of a turntable. However, as new formats like CDs were introduced and began to replace vinyl, manufacturers of amplifiers removed or reduced the quality of their in-built phono stages and inputs as they were no longer being used.
Nowadays, many hi-fi amplifiers do not allow you to plug in a turntable directly. Instead, you need to connect via a phono stage to make the very small signal from the turntable powerful enough for your main amp to work with.
In addition to amplifying the signal, a phono preamp also applies the RIAA equalization curve to the signal. This ensures that the equalization curve has the same shape after amplification as it did before, meaning that the sound does not change at all apart from being amplified.
What Is A Phono Preamp?
A phono preamp, also known as a phono stage, is an electronic circuit that amplifies and equalizes the analog output of a turntable cartridge. The output is boosted to a level equivalent to other audio sources such as tapes and CDs, and RIAA equalization is required to restore the original signal.
To connect a turntable to an amplifier, you will need to pass the signal through an external phono stage to increase the level. Turntable cartridges output a very small signal, and this needs amplifying up to several hundred times the size before it is loud enough for your amplifier. If any noise creeps in before or during amplification, it will become increased in volume detracting from the potential audio quality.
Phono preamps come in various forms, including built-in phono stages within some hi-fi amplifiers or turntables, and external phono stages for units without phono inputs, as well as for audiophiles who want the highest-quality restoration. External phono preamps are also used for turntable-to-computer applications.
Why Do You Need A Phono Preamp For Your Turntable?
If you own a turntable and want to listen to vinyl records through your audio system, you will need a phono preamp. This is because the signal produced by a record cartridge is much weaker than the standard signal level produced by most other consumer Hi-Fi electronics.
Without a phono preamp, the signal from your turntable will be too weak to be heard through your speakers or stereo system. A phono preamp boosts the signal by 40-50 dB, bringing it up to the required level for your audio system.
Additionally, records are cut with the bass frequencies reduced and the high frequencies boosted. This equalization helps to keep groove dimensions small, increase sound quality, and decrease record wear. A phono preamp acts to equalize the signal and bring it back as close as possible to the frequency response of the master recording.
How Does A Phono Preamp Work?
A phono preamp works by taking the small electrical signal produced by a turntable cartridge and amplifying it to a level that can be played through an audio system. This is necessary because turntable cartridges output a very small signal that needs to be amplified up to several hundred times its original size before it is loud enough for your amplifier.
If any noise creeps in before or during amplification, it will become increased in volume, detracting from the potential audio quality. Therefore, dedicated phono stages are fine-tuned to reproduce the warm sound of vinyl, free from hiss or bearing rumble thanks to engineers’ expertise in circuit design, component choice, and layout.
To connect a turntable to an amplifier, you will need to pass the signal through an external phono stage to increase the level. A phono stage is connected using a single audio interconnect cable and can be set up in seconds, allowing you to appreciate stunning clarity, musicality, and resolution from all your vinyl recordings.
Some amplifiers are already able to support turntable connections, but these in-built phono pre-amplifiers are massively out-performed by external phono stages. Vinyl lovers will instantly hear the difference that a dedicated phono stage makes to music quality.
Different Types Of Phono Preamps
There are two main types of phono preamps: those designed to work with moving magnetic cartridges (MM), and units designed to work with moving coil cartridge types (MC).
Moving Magnet (MM) phono preamps are the most common type and are generally less expensive than their Moving Coil (MC) counterparts. MM cartridges have a higher output voltage compared to MC cartridges, which means they require less amplification before input to your amp. MM phono preamps are a good choice for those on a budget or for those who are just starting out with vinyl playback.
Moving Coil (MC) phono preamps are more expensive than MM phono preamps but offer better sound quality. MC cartridges have a lower output voltage compared to MM cartridges, which means they require more amplification before input to your amp. MC phono preamps are a good choice for serious audiophiles who want the best possible sound quality from their vinyl collection.
Some phono preamps are designed to work with both MM and MC cartridges, with a simple switch that adjusts the preamp accordingly. These types of phono preamps offer flexibility and convenience for those who own both types of cartridges.
It’s important to note that not all phono preamps are created equal. Some are designed for budget systems while others are designed for high-end systems. It’s important to do your research and choose a phono preamp that is appropriate for your system and budget.
How To Choose The Right Phono Preamp For Your Setup
When it comes to choosing the right phono preamp for your setup, there are a few important factors to consider. The first thing to consider is the type of cartridge on your turntable. If you have a moving magnet cartridge, then you will need an MM phono preamp that is compatible with this type of cartridge. Most preamps are compatible by default, but it’s always best to double-check before making a purchase. On the other hand, if you have a moving coil cartridge, then you will need a phono preamp that is compatible with low output cartridges.
It’s worth noting that many manufacturers offer MM/MC phono preamps, which means that both options are available in a single device. This type of phono stage is versatile and can be used to facilitate possible changes of the cartridge. For example, if you wanted to upgrade your MM cartridge later on to an MC cartridge, you will not necessarily be obliged to change your phono preamp. This is an advantage not to forget, especially when you intend to upgrade your vinyl turntable.
Another important factor to consider when choosing a phono preamp is the gain setting. Moving magnet cartridges have high output voltage, typically in the range of 4-8 millivolts. For high-output cartridges like these, set your preamp’s gain on the low side. A setting of 40 dB is a good place to start. You might try a slightly higher setting, but the higher you go, the more noise you’ll hear. Go too high, and you’ll hear obvious distortion. The higher gain settings (60 dB or higher) are for low-output moving coil cartridges. These high-end cartridges typically have output voltage below 2.5 mV.
Finally, when it comes to budgeting for your phono preamp, it’s important to remember that it is just one component in your hi-fi system and not the most important one. Your speakers and turntable should command a much larger chunk of your hi-fi budget. However, even if you have an entry-level hi-fi system, a dedicated phono preamp has the potential to make a dramatic difference. As a general rule, it’s recommended investing about 20 percent of your budget on the phono preamp, splurging for flexibility in terms of adjustments like gain, loading and compatibility with Moving Coil cartridges if you’re looking to mess around.
By considering these factors when choosing a phono preamp for your setup, you can ensure that you get the best possible sound from your vinyl playback system.
Tips For Optimizing Your Phono Preamp And Turntable Performance
To get the most out of your turntable and phono preamp, here are some tips to optimize their performance:
1. Upgrade Your Cartridge: The cartridge is the first component in the signal chain and can have a huge impact on the sound quality of your turntable. Upgrading to a better quality cartridge can transform the sound of your turntable, providing a more open, detailed, dynamic, musical, engaging and enjoyable listening experience.
2. Check Your Setup: It’s essential to ensure that your turntable is set up correctly and that everything is hooked up as it should be. Double-check that you’ve plugged the turntable into an appropriate phono input or phono preamp. If your turntable doesn’t have a built-in phono stage, you’ll need an external phono preamp or a receiver/amplifier with a phono input to amplify the signal correctly.
3. Use a Record Cleaning Machine: A good record cleaning machine can make records sound like new and add years of listening life by keeping them in good shape. A Record Doctor cleaning machine uses specially-formulated cleaning fluid and vacuum suction to really clear out the grooves, removing packing and shipping debris or worn-in grime from decades of service.
4. Consider Adding a High-Quality Phono Stage: Even with a phono pre-amp built-in, adding a high-quality phono stage can give the audio signal an extra bump in quality and deliver much better sound quality. There are a number of great phono preamps available for any design or budget.
By following these tips, you can optimize your phono preamp and turntable performance, ensuring that you get the best possible sound quality from your vinyl collection.
