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How to Choose the Perfect Phono Preamp for Your Turntable

ByPaul Kester

Selecting the right phono preamp can significantly improve your vinyl listening experience. This guide will help you pick a preamp that works well with your turntable and enhances sound quality. We’ll cover the basics, key features to look for, and recommend options for different experience levels.

What’s a Phono Preamp?

A phono preamp, also called a phono stage, is an essential component in any turntable setup. It serves two main purposes:

  1. Signal Amplification: The preamp boosts the weak signal from your turntable’s cartridge to a level your main amplifier can use. Without this amplification, the sound would be barely audible.
  2. RIAA Equalization: It applies a specific equalization curve to flatten the frequency response of your records. This curve compensates for the way vinyl records are cut, restoring the original audio balance.

Why You Need a Phono Preamp

You might be wondering if you really need a separate phono preamp. The answer depends on your specific setup:

  1. If your turntable has a built-in preamp, you can connect it directly to any line-level input on your receiver or amplifier.
  2. If your receiver has a “PHONO” input, it likely has a built-in preamp, and you can connect your turntable directly to this input.
  3. If neither your turntable nor your receiver has a phono preamp, you’ll need an external one to enjoy your vinyl records.

Even if you have a built-in preamp, a separate, high-quality phono preamp can often provide better sound quality and more flexibility.

Matching Your Cartridge

Your cartridge type is a crucial factor in choosing the right phono preamp. There are two main types of phono cartridges:

Moving Magnet (MM) Cartridges

  • Most common type
  • Higher output (typically 2-5mV)
  • Generally less expensive
  • Easier to replace stylus
  • Usually require 30-40dB of gain

Moving Coil (MC) Cartridges

  • Lower output (typically 0.1-1mV)
  • Need more amplification (often 60dB or more)
  • Generally more expensive
  • Often provide better sound quality
  • Stylus usually not user-replaceable

Some phono preamps are designed to work with both types, while others are optimized for one or the other. Make sure to choose a preamp that’s compatible with your cartridge type. You can learn more about the two main types of phono cartridges here.

Key Features to Consider

When shopping for a phono preamp, pay attention to these important features:

Gain

Gain refers to how much the preamp boosts your cartridge’s signal. It’s measured in decibels (dB). The right gain setting depends on your cartridge type:

  • MM cartridges usually need 30-40dB of gain
  • MC cartridges often require 60dB or more

Some preamps offer adjustable gain settings. This feature allows you to fine-tune the output to match your cartridge’s specifications and your amplifier’s input sensitivity.

Input Impedance

Input impedance is the load your cartridge “sees” when connected to the preamp. It affects the cartridge’s frequency response and overall sound. Proper impedance matching can make a noticeable difference in sound quality.

  • MM cartridges typically want 47,000 ohms (47k?)
  • MC cartridges often need lower values, ranging from 100? to 1k?

Higher-end preamps often offer adjustable impedance settings, allowing you to experiment and find the best match for your specific cartridge.

Capacitance

Capacitance can affect the high-frequency response of your system, especially with MM cartridges. Most MM cartridges are designed for a load capacitance of 100-200 picofarads (pF). Some preamps allow you to adjust this setting.

Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR)

The signal-to-noise ratio indicates how much of the preamp’s output is your music signal versus unwanted noise. A higher number is better. Look for an SNR of at least 70dB for good performance.

RIAA Accuracy

The accuracy of the RIAA equalization curve is crucial for proper frequency response. High-quality preamps will have very low deviation from the standard RIAA curve, typically within ±0.5dB.

Inputs and Outputs

Consider how many inputs you need. If you have multiple turntables or plan to in the future, a preamp with multiple inputs can be handy. For outputs, most preamps have standard RCA outputs, but some high-end models might offer balanced XLR outputs.

phono preamp

Phono Preamp Options for Different Levels

Let’s look at some specific phono preamp options for different experience and budget levels:

Beginner: Pro-Ject Phono Box DC

For those just starting their vinyl journey, the Pro-Ject Phono Box DC is an excellent choice. It’s simple, affordable, and works well with most MM cartridges.

Key features:

  • Fixed 40dB gain
  • Input Impedance: Moving Magnet – 47 kohms, Moving Coil – 100 ohms
  • Compact size
  • Good build quality
  • Affordable price point

While it lacks adjustability, it’s a solid starting point for newcomers to vinyl. Its simplicity means you can set it up quickly and start enjoying your records without fuss.

Mid-Level: Cambridge Audio Solo

As you get more serious about your vinyl setup, you might want a preamp designed to enhance vinyl playback. The Cambridge Audio Solo fits the bill nicely.

Key features:

  • Dedicated Moving Magnet (MM) preamplifier
  • Gain @ 1kHz: 39dB
  • Signal to Noise Ratio: >90dB
  • Eco-Friendly: low standby power consumption
  • Compact and efficient design

The Alva Solo is positioned as a high-performance phono preamp that can significantly improve the sound quality of vinyl playback systems, especially for those using moving magnet cartridges.

Advanced: Vincent PHO-701

For serious vinyl enthusiasts who want the best possible sound, the Vincent PHO-701 is a high-end hybrid tube phono preamplifier that offers exceptional performance.

Key features:

  • Supports both Moving Magnet (MM) and Moving Coil (MC) cartridges
  • Hybrid circuit that combines a vacuum tube with solid-state components
  • Uses a separate power supply chassis to isolate the audio circuitry from AC distortion and interference.
  • Offers user-adjustable input capacitance and input impedance
  • Exceptional build quality

This preamp is typically favored by audiophiles looking for a high-performance, versatile phono stage that can extract the best from their vinyl setup.

How to Set Up Your Phono Preamp

Once you’ve chosen your preamp, proper setup is key to getting the best sound. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

  1. Check your cartridge’s specs: Look up the recommended gain and impedance settings for your specific cartridge.
  2. Start with recommended settings: If your preamp has adjustable settings, start with those recommended by your cartridge manufacturer.
  3. Connect your equipment:
    • Connect your turntable’s output to the preamp’s input.
    • Connect the preamp’s output to a line-level input on your amplifier or receiver.
    • Don’t forget to connect the ground wire from your turntable to the preamp’s ground terminal.
  4. Power up: Turn on your preamp before your main amplifier to avoid any loud pops or clicks.
  5. Set the volume low: Start with a low volume and gradually increase it to avoid any surprises.
  6. Fine-tune: Listen to familiar records and make small adjustments to gain and impedance (if your preamp allows). Trust your ears – the “right” settings are what sound best to you.
  7. Experiment: Try different settings and give yourself time to listen. Sometimes, the differences can be subtle but noticeable over time.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with careful setup, you might encounter some issues. Here are some common problems and their solutions:

  1. Hum or buzz: This is often caused by a grounding issue. Make sure your turntable’s ground wire is properly connected to the preamp. If the problem persists, try connecting the preamp’s ground to your amplifier.
  2. Low volume: Check that you’re using the correct gain setting for your cartridge type. MM cartridges need less gain than MC cartridges.
  3. Distorted sound: This could be caused by too much gain. Try reducing the gain or switching to a lower gain setting if your preamp allows it.
  4. Lack of bass: Ensure that the RIAA equalization is working correctly. If your preamp has a switchable RIAA curve, make sure it’s turned on.
  5. Excessive surface noise: A subsonic filter (if your preamp has one) can help reduce low-frequency rumble and warped record noise.

Maintaining Your Phono Preamp

To keep your phono preamp performing at its best:

  1. Keep it clean: Dust can interfere with connections and potentially cause noise. Regularly dust your preamp with a soft, dry cloth.
  2. Provide proper ventilation: Many preamps generate heat. Ensure your preamp has enough space around it for air to circulate.
  3. Use quality cables: Good quality interconnects can make a noticeable difference in sound quality.
  4. Consider power conditioning: A power conditioner or high-quality power strip can help protect your preamp from electrical issues and potentially improve performance.
  5. Break-in period: Many audiophiles believe that components need a “break-in” period. Give your new preamp some time before making final judgments on its sound.

Conclusion

Choosing the right phono preamp involves matching it to your cartridge, considering your budget and experience level, and thinking about your future upgrade path. As you gain experience, you might want more control over gain and impedance settings.

Remember, the goal is to enjoy your music. Pick a preamp that fits your needs and budget, and don’t be afraid to experiment with settings to find what sounds best to you.

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