Do You Need a Phono Preamp? Match Your Turntable to Your Amp

What a Phono Preamp Does

Turntable cartridges generate a very small electrical signal that is not equalized for direct connection to an amplifier's line-level input. This signal must be amplified and have its frequency response corrected to match the original recording. A phono preamp performs both tasks. Without one, playback sounds faint and lacks low frequencies. If your amplifier has a phono input, that input contains a built-in phono preamp, so you can connect the turntable directly. If not, you need to add a phono preamp somewhere in the signal chain.

The RIAA curve is the standard for frequency equalization on vinyl records. It was developed by the Recording Industry Association of America to ensure consistent playback across different turntables. Without a phono preamp that applies this curve, the sound would be unbalanced. This is why a phono stage is an essential part of any turntable setup.

The choice comes down to whether your amp already has a phono stage. The rest of this guide will help you identify your gear and decide between a turntable with a built-in preamp, a standalone preamp, or using the phono input on your receiver. You can also read more about the technical details in our article on what a phono stage is.

Look for a Phono Input on Your Amplifier or Receiver

Inspect the back panel of your amplifier or receiver for a pair of RCA inputs labeled 'PHONO'. They are often placed near a ground screw, which connects to the turntable's ground wire to reduce hum. If you see them, your amplifier has a phono preamp built in. If not, and you only see inputs named CD, AUX, TAPE, or similar, your amplifier accepts line-level signals only and you will need a phono preamp.

If you are still unsure, consult the owner's manual. Many modern AV receivers omit phono inputs, while vintage receivers almost always include them. The difference between a phono input and a line-level input is explained in our article phono preamp versus receiver phono input.

• Look for the word 'PHONO' on the back panel.
• Look for a ground terminal (a small metal post).
• Check the owner's manual if you are unsure.
• If you have a vintage receiver, it likely includes a phono input.

Turntables With a Built-in Phono Preamp

Many contemporary turntables come with a built-in phono preamp. This is convenient because you can connect them directly to any line-level input on your amplifier or powered speakers. Some models have a switch to disable the built-in preamp. If you plan to use a receiver with a phono input, you may want to turn it off to avoid double amplification. The difference between built-in and external preamps can help you decide which approach is better for your setup.

If you are looking for a turntable with a built-in preamp, the buying guides for turntables under 300 and turntables under 200 list many models that include this feature.

Standalone Phono Preamps for Flexibility

A standalone phono preamp is a separate device that sits between your turntable and your amplifier. It is a good option when your turntable does not have a built-in preamp and your amplifier lacks a phono input. External preamps range from simple budget units to high-end designs with adjustable gain and cartridge loading, which can accommodate different cartridge types. They also give you the freedom to upgrade the preamp independently without changing the turntable.

If you think you might upgrade your cartridge later, a standalone preamp with adjustable settings can be a worthwhile investment. Learn more about the differences between moving magnet and moving coil cartridges and the trade-offs in phono preamp vs receiver phono input.

Match the Preamp to Your Full Audio Chain

The right solution depends on your entire audio chain, not just the turntable. If you have a pair of powered speakers without a phono input, a turntable with a built-in preamp is often the most direct route. If you have a traditional amplifier or receiver with a phono input, you can pair it with a turntable that lacks a preamp, potentially improving signal cleanliness because the amplifier's phono stage handles the task. For wireless listening, some turntables offer Bluetooth connectivity. Bluetooth Classic is the radio protocol commonly used for wireless audio streaming to speakers and headphones.

When connecting a turntable to powered speakers or an AV receiver, check the available inputs. If you need guidance, our guide to connecting a turntable to powered speakers and turntable connectivity options cover the details.

What to Pick for Your Setup

Use the table below to match your current gear to the right turntable type. Once you know which category you are in, explore the corresponding buying guides to compare models by specs. Always handle records properly, as advised by the Library of Congress, to keep them in good condition.

Match your gear to the right turntable

Questions

Can I use a turntable with a built-in preamp with a receiver that has a phono input?

Yes, but you must switch the built-in preamp off. If you leave it on, the signal will be amplified twice, causing distortion and a heavy bass emphasis. Look for a switch labeled 'PHONO/LINE' or 'PREAMP ON/OFF'.

How do I know if my turntable has a built-in preamp?

Look for a switch labeled 'PHONO/LINE' or 'PREAMP ON/OFF' on the back or bottom. If there is no such switch, it may not have one, or it may be always on. Check the user manual for your specific model.

What if my turntable does not have a preamp and my amp does not have a phono input?

You need to add a standalone phono preamp between the turntable and the amplifier. Connect the turntable's RCA cables to the preamp input, and the preamp output to a line input on your amp. This is a common solution for vintage turntables.

Can I connect a turntable directly to powered speakers?

Only if the speakers accept a phono-level signal, which is rare. Most powered speakers have line-level inputs, so you need a phono preamp, either built into the turntable or external. See our guide on connecting a turntable to powered speakers.

Does Bluetooth eliminate the need for a phono preamp?

No. Bluetooth is a wireless link that transmits an audio signal to a receiver. If the turntable has a built-in preamp, it can send a line-level signal to a Bluetooth transmitter. If not, you still need a preamp to bring the signal to line level before it can be transmitted.