Vinyl records have made a comeback in recent years, and with it, the importance of a phono stage preamp.
But what exactly is a phono stage preamp?
In simple terms, it’s a device that amplifies and equalizes the analog output of a turntable cartridge, making it suitable for connection to an amplifier or other audio system.
While some amplifiers have built-in phono stages, external phono preamps are often preferred for their superior sound quality and shielding from interference.
In this article, we’ll dive deeper into the world of phono stage preamps and explore their importance in getting the most out of your vinyl collection.
What Is A Phono Stage Preamp
A phono stage preamp, also known as a phono preamp, is an essential component in any vinyl playback system. It acts as a bridge between the turntable and the amplifier, boosting the tiny signal generated by the cartridge and applying an equalization curve to restore the original sound.
When vinyl was the primary format for audio recording, phono stages were built into receivers and amplifiers, allowing 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 have a built-in phono stage, which means that you need to connect via an external phono stage to make the very small signal from the turntable powerful enough for your main amp to work with.
The Basics Of Vinyl Playback
To understand the importance of a phono stage preamp, it’s essential to know the basics of vinyl playback. A vinyl record is a physical medium that stores audio information in the form of grooves on its surface. When a stylus (needle) is placed on these grooves, it vibrates and generates a small electrical signal that needs to be amplified before it can be played through speakers.
The signal generated by a phono cartridge is extremely low-level, which means that it requires a huge boost in gain to match the level of other sources like CD players and streaming devices. However, simply applying gain is not enough for proper playback of vinyl records. Due to the way records are cut and the phono signal’s delicate nature, gain without equalization would result in untethered sonics with great amounts of extraneous noise.
To solve this issue, records are cut such that low frequencies are reduced (reducing groove width), and high frequencies are boosted. The RIAA equalization curve, which has been widely agreed upon for vinyl playback since the 1950s, accommodates for these exaggerations and returns the signal to something listenable, re-emphasizing low frequencies and trimming back highs.
This is where the phono stage preamp comes in. It has two main functions: amplifying the phono signal by applying gain (dB) and equalizing the signal based on the RIAA standard to prepare it for amplification by the main amplifier. The 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.
The Importance Of A Phono Stage Preamp
The importance of a phono stage preamp cannot be overstated. It performs two crucial functions that are essential for getting the most out of your vinyl records.
Firstly, the phono stage preamp amplifies the tiny signal generated by the cartridge to a level that is suitable for connection to an amplifier. The signal produced by a record cartridge is much weaker than the standard signal level produced by most other consumer Hi-Fi electronics. A typical phono preamp will boost your signal by 40 – 50 dB to meet the required level.
Secondly, the phono stage preamp applies an equalization curve to restore the original sound of the recording. When records are cut, the bass frequencies are reduced, and the high frequencies are boosted to keep groove dimensions small, increase sound quality, and decrease record wear. The phono preamp acts to equalize the signal in an attempt to bring it back as close as possible to the frequency response of the master recording. This entire process is referred to as the RIAA (Recording Industry Association of America) equalization curve, which became the general industry standard during the 1950s.
Without a phono stage preamp, your vinyl records will not sound their best. The small signal from the turntable will not be powerful enough for your amplifier to work with, and the sound will lack depth and clarity due to the absence of proper equalization. Therefore, adding a phono stage preamp to your setup is essential if you want to get the most out of your vinyl collection and enjoy stunning clarity, musicality, and resolution from all your vinyl recordings.
Built-In Vs. External Phono Preamps
When it comes to phono preamps, there are two options: built-in or external. A built-in preamp is convenient and generally cheaper, but it often sacrifices sound quality. On the other hand, an external preamp delivers better sound quality, but comes at a higher cost and requires additional setup.
Built-in preamps are often an afterthought and used as a sales “add-on” to turntables. They are designed to fit within a smaller space and are not built specifically for the purpose of being a preamp. As a result, they may have lower build quality and electrical components, leading to more noise and distortion in the sound.
External preamps, on the other hand, are designed solely for the purpose of being a preamp. They are built with higher quality components and have less noise and distortion, resulting in a richer and fuller sound. Additionally, they do not have to worry about fitting into the casing of a turntable, allowing for more flexibility in design.
While some high-end turntables may have a high-quality built-in preamp, an external preamp is generally going to give you better sound quality. However, the cost of an external preamp can be a disadvantage, with higher-quality ones costing several hundred dollars.
Ultimately, the choice between a built-in or external preamp depends on personal preferences and budget. If convenience and cost are top priorities, a built-in preamp may suffice. However, for those who prioritize sound quality and are willing to invest in their vinyl playback system, an external preamp is the way to go.
How Phono Preamps Work
Phono preamps work by performing two critical functions: amplification and equalization. The first function is to amplify the signal level up to a level suitable for the standard AUX input on your stereo. 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.
The second function is to apply an equalization curve to inverse the standard frequency adjustment made during the record cutting process. When record grooves are carved, the bass is reduced to save space on the record. The phono stage amplifies the bass and decreases the treble to correct this and create a good listening balance. This process of a phono stage balancing the bass and treble is called RIAA (Recording Industry Association of America) equalization.
The phono preamp is an electronic circuit that amplifies and equalizes the analog output of the cartridge in a phonograph turntable. 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.
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. Connected using a single audio interconnect cable, a phono stage is set up in seconds, allowing you to appreciate stunning clarity, musicality, and resolution from all your vinyl recordings.
While some amplifiers already support turntable connections with built-in phono pre-amplifiers, external phono stages are still preferred by vinyl lovers as they out-perform in-built ones. External phono preamps are also used for turntable-to-computer applications (see USB turntable).
Choosing The Right Phono Preamp For Your System
Choosing the right phono preamp for your system is crucial to getting the best sound quality out of your vinyl playback. There are several factors to consider when selecting a phono preamp, including the type of cartridge you have, your budget, and the physical space available in your audio system.
Firstly, it’s important to determine whether you have a moving magnet (MM) or moving coil (MC) cartridge. Most inexpensive preamps are designed for MM cartridges, which are generally cheaper than MC cartridges. However, if you have a high-end turntable with an MC cartridge, you’ll need a phono preamp that can handle the lower output voltage of these cartridges.
Additionally, consider the amount of physical space you have available for a phono preamp. Some preamps can be quite large and may not fit in your existing setup. In this case, a mini phono preamp may be a better option.
Budget is also an important consideration when choosing a phono preamp. Cheaper preamps may introduce noise and distortion into the signal, resulting in flat and lifeless sound quality. Higher-end phono preamps are designed to precisely amplify and equalize the small phono signal without adding any noise or distortion.
Finally, some preamps offer adjustable settings such as loading impedance and gain adjustments. These settings can help fine-tune the balance of components in your audio system and improve the sound quality of your vinyl playback.
Ultimately, it’s important to select a phono preamp that is compatible with your existing turntable and cartridge while also fitting within your budget and physical space constraints. Demos are recommended to ensure that you get the best-sounding performance when spinning your vinyl records.
Maintaining Your Phono Preamp For Optimal Performance
To ensure that your phono preamp is performing at its best, it’s important to maintain it properly. Here are some tips to help you keep your phono preamp in optimal condition:
1. Keep it clean: Dust and debris can accumulate on the surface of your phono preamp, affecting its performance. Use a soft cloth to gently wipe the surface of the preamp, taking care not to scratch it. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that could damage the surface.
2. Check the connections: Make sure that all cables and connections are secure and free from any damage or corrosion. Loose or damaged connections can cause interference and affect the sound quality.
3. Keep it cool: Phono preamps generate heat during operation, so it’s important to keep them in a well-ventilated area to prevent overheating. Avoid placing them in enclosed spaces or near other heat-generating equipment.
4. Regular maintenance: Some phono preamps require periodic maintenance, such as replacing tubes or other components. Check the manufacturer’s recommendations for your specific model and follow their instructions carefully.
By following these simple tips, you can help ensure that your phono preamp is performing at its best and delivering the best possible sound quality from your vinyl collection.
