Prephono

Prephono

The phono preamplifier is the device that makes the turntable signal audible. A cartridge produces a very weak signal, recorded with a specific equalization (the RIAA curve). The phono preamplifier amplifies it and restores the proper balance between bass and treble, allowing you to connect it to a standard line input on your amplifier. In this category, you'll find compact turntable preamplifiers for beginners, adjustable models for those who want to get the most out of their cartridge, and high-end phono preamplifiers, including tube-based ones.

MM and MC cartridges: gain and loading

The first criterion is the type of cartridge. Moving magnet (MM) cartridges have a higher output and work with almost any phono stage. Moving coil (MC) cartridges have a much lower output and require a phono stage with an MC input, which means more gain and a lower noise floor. Loading also matters: for MM cartridges, this involves input impedance and capacitance, while for MC cartridges, it's primarily the load resistance. Many phono stages allow you to adjust gain and loading with selector switches or dials: this is useful if you plan to change cartridges in the future. Recommended values ​​can be found in the cartridge manufacturer's specifications.

Integrated or external prephono

Many amplifiers have a phono input, almost always moving magnet (MM), and some turntables have a built-in preamplifier. These are convenient solutions, but a dedicated external preamplifier is often the most effective upgrade for an analog system and becomes indispensable if you use an MC cartridge and your amplifier doesn't have the appropriate input. An external preamplifier also has the advantage of staying with you when you change amplifiers.

Transistors or valves

Solid-state phono stages are the most common and generally offer silence and ease of use. Tube phono stages appeal to those seeking a fuller, more immersive sound; with MC cartridges, some models use step-up transformers to achieve the necessary gain. There's no one-size-fits-all choice: it all depends on the cartridge and system.

The prephonos you find at Audiocostruzioni

Our selection of new prephono stages includes Pro-Ject, Gold Note, Thorens, Lehmannaudio, Ortofon and Clearaudio, as well as proposals from Leben, Accuphase, Primare, Musical Fidelity, Luxman, and McIntosh for high-end systems. Among the models most chosen by our customers are the Gold Note PH-5, Pro-Ject Phono Box MM, Pro-Ject Tube Box S2, and Thorens MM 008.

If you're still choosing a cartridge, check out our turntable cartridges and tonearms ; if you're starting from scratch, read our practical guide to choosing your first turntable.

Audiocostruzioni It's a hi-fi store with a showroom and listening room in Carpi (MO), where you can listen to phono stages live, and we also sell and ship online. For advice on matching your cartridge, email us, and if you'd like to upgrade your phono stage, we'll gladly consider a trade-in.