
Not a huge change over the previous version Of course, sound quality is the final decider: we'd recommend demoing your new phono preamp with your existing deck and system if possible, to ensure you get the best-sounding performance when spinning your vinyl records. It's the same case if you're looking to upgrade your current set-up, although it's always worth looking at the next model up for future-proofing. Ultimately, which phono stage you choose will depend on what's best appropriate for the turntable and cartridge you already have, so make sure you've got your deck's specs handy. Compatibility trumps design here, although it's not hard to find nicely made boxes. High-end phono stages tend to be larger (separate power supply units and better components all take up space), while budget options have a smaller footprint. Phono stages typically only have one set of inputs (you're usually plugging in just one turntable, after all), and even those on the entry-to-mid-level price range now increasingly let you switch between MM and MC cartridges – although beware that plenty still specialise in one type only.
BENCHMARK HIFI HOW TO
And once you've got your new vinyl set up ready, here are a few tips on how to get the best sound from your turntable. If you're on the lookout for a new turntable, check out our pick of the best record players for every budget. We've drawn on our reviews catalogue from recent years to pick the best available right now, so you can be sure that you're buying the very best quality for your money. Every phono stage on this list has been thoroughly tested by the team of experts at What Hi-Fi? in our dedicated listening rooms, so you can trust our buying advice. But whether you're looking to pinch pennies or break the bank, we've got a phono preamp for you. Or you might just want to upgrade its sound beyond what's possible with the built-in phono stage found in amplifiers or some record players.Īs with many product categories, phono stages span all price ranges.

So why do you need one? Your stereo amplifier or turntable may not have one, in which case you won't be able to play records without this crucial component.
