Are you new to the world of turntables and vinyl? Are you wondering if you can use a headphone amp as a phono preamp?
Look no further! In this article, we will explore the differences between a phono preamp and a headphone amp, and whether or not it is possible to use one in place of the other.
We’ll also touch on some considerations you should make before making any purchases. So sit back, relax, and let’s dive into the world of audio equipment!
Will A Headphone Preamp Work As A Phono Preamp
The short answer is no, a headphone preamp will not work as a phono preamp. This is because a headphone amp is not designed to work with the low voltage output signal from a phono cartridge, nor will it apply the required RIAA equalization.
A phono preamp is specifically designed to convert the 5mV PHONO signal from a cartridge to a 300mV LINE level signal. On the other hand, a headphone amp takes a 300mV LINE level signal and boosts it so that it is strong enough to drive headphones properly.
While it may be possible to use a headphone amp as a preamp, it would have to be capable of driving down to around 16 Ohms or preferably even lower. However, this is not recommended as it may result in out-of-balance sound with lots of noise and distortion.
Understanding Phono Preamps And Headphone Amps
Phono preamps and headphone amps are two essential components in an audio setup, but they serve different purposes. A phono preamp is designed to amplify the low-level analog signal from a turntable to a higher level, so that it can be received by an audio system. It also applies the RIAA equalization curve to the signal, ensuring that the sound does not change apart from being amplified.
In contrast, a headphone amp is rated by the amount of output voltage it is capable of producing, and is designed to boost a 300mV LINE level signal so that it can properly drive headphones. Headphone amps have a maximum limit of current they can produce, indicating how much power they can deliver directly to low impedance loads, such as those around 50 Ohms or less.
It’s important to note that using a headphone amp as a phono preamp is not recommended, as it may result in out-of-balance sound with lots of noise and distortion. Additionally, headphone amps are not dependent on the impedance of headphones, while preamps are dependent on the impedance of speakers, monitors, or mixing consoles.
When considering purchasing a phono preamp, determine if your turntable already has a built-in phono preamp. If not, it’s recommended to purchase a separate one like the Zen Phono from iFi. This will bridge the gap between your turntable and audio equipment, ensuring that you can enjoy your vinyl collection at a volume you can actually hear.
The Differences Between Phono Preamps And Headphone Amps
Phono preamps and headphone amps are two different types of audio equipment that serve different purposes. The main difference between the two is that phono preamps are designed to work with the low voltage output signal from a phono cartridge, while headphone amps are designed to boost a line-level signal to drive headphones.
Phono preamps are used to convert the 5mV PHONO signal from a cartridge to a 300mV LINE level signal. This is done by applying the required RIAA equalization and boosting the signal to line level. Phono preamps are necessary because turntables output a much weaker signal than other audio sources, and they require specific equalization to sound correct.
Headphone amps, on the other hand, take a 300mV LINE level signal and boost it so that it is strong enough to drive headphones properly. Headphone amps are rated based on the amount of output voltage they can produce and their ability to deliver power directly to low impedance loads, such as headphones.
Another notable difference between the two is that headphone amps have a maximum limit of current they can produce, which indicates how much power they can deliver directly to low impedance loads before distortion occurs. In contrast, phono preamps are rated based on their power by converting watts into 8Ohms.
While some headphone amps may be capable of driving down to around 16 Ohms or lower, it is not recommended to use them as a phono preamp. This is because they are not designed to apply the required RIAA equalization and may result in out-of-balance sound with lots of noise and distortion.
Factors To Consider Before Making A Purchase
Before making a purchase, there are several factors to consider when choosing a phono preamp. The first thing to consider is whether your turntable has a built-in phono preamp or not. If it doesn’t, then you will definitely need a phono preamp to boost the signal from the cartridge to a LINE level signal.
Another important factor to consider is the type of cartridge your turntable uses. Phono preamps are designed to work with two different types of cartridges: moving magnetic (MM) and moving coil (MC). Some preamps cover both bases, but it’s important to make sure you’re matching the correct preamp to your turntable.
Size and space requirements should also be considered when choosing a phono preamp. Some preamps can be quite large, especially if you get a tubular one. If you don’t have enough space for a full-fledged preamp for your record player, consider opting for a mini phono preamp that can easily stack with the rest of your audio gear.
Lastly, it’s important to consider the quality of the phono preamp you’re purchasing. The best phono preamps focus not only on boosting the signal but also on preserving the precise curve of the equalization of the raw phono input once its signal has been boosted enough to be heard by the main stereo system. Look for a high-quality preamp that will do justice to the audio signal and preserve sound quality.
Conclusion: Choosing The Right Equipment For Your Audio Needs
When it comes to choosing the right equipment for your audio needs, it’s important to consider what type of signal you are working with and what you want to achieve. If you have a turntable, it’s crucial to determine if you need a phono preamp or if your turntable already has one built-in. If you need a phono preamp, it’s important to choose one that is compatible with your cartridge type and has the necessary loading capabilities.
If you are looking to improve the performance of your wired headphones, a headphone amp can certainly help. However, it’s important to choose one that is designed for over-ear studio headphones and has a low enough impedance to properly drive your headphones. It’s also important to note that noise-canceling headphones already have a built-in headphone amp and do not require an external one.
Ultimately, choosing the right equipment for your audio needs requires careful consideration of your specific setup and goals. By doing your research and selecting equipment that is compatible and effective, you can enhance your listening experience and achieve the best possible sound quality.
