BEGINNER'S GUIDE - PHONO AMPLIFIERS FOR ALL. WHAT TO LOOK OUT FOR & WHAT TO AVOID

[@eliasmihoub1996]

After all this time, i found it, the man who will finally teach me what i need to know, in a clear and simple way, so i enjoy creating my dream set-up ! Thanks !

[@atiq191]

Phono amp can really make or break an analogue chain! Well covered, Paul.

[@rodneydavis1486]

This is one of the best videos I've seen concerning usable information. I am using a Dr. Feickert Volare with a Kiseki Purple Heart moving coil cartridge. I chose the Sutherland 20/20 phono stage with the optional separate power supply. I did not consider tubes because of maintenance. I couldn't be happier.

[@yoric6939]

As an enthusiastic beginner who adores vinyl, I simply can’t thank you enough! I had no idea of the importance of a phono amp 🤯 every days a school day!

[@raj6338]

I recently purchased a phono preamp for my vinyl. With that being said the difference is amazing. Paul thank you for the great video. You are very articulate but easy to understand.

[@kennethdorn6393]

Ditto the previous commenter. I've learned so much from your channel, I can't thank you enough. As someone getting back into vinyl, now that I've identified a turntable (Fluance RT85) and learned about the phono amp, would the Moon phono amp be a good fit with a pair of powered speakers from Audio Engine?

[@arte2arquiteto]

A few years ago I met the founder of Aesthetix (Jim White) at Audio Connection, Verona, New Jersey. He is a humble and gracious gentleman. We had the pleasure to sit down with John Rutan, owner of Audio Connection, and listen to the Aesthetix lo Eclipse phono stage along with the monoblock amplifiers and preamplifier, also from Aesthetix fed to a pair of Vandersteen Model 7 speakers in Cherokee red. All of this was hooked up to an AMG Viella turntable. The sound was glorious, solid, effortless, and pristine. I, being an architect, made a comment to Jim White, prior to listening to the system, that Frank Lloyd Wright's favorite color was Cherokee red...

[@TheAudiophileMan]

You're a lucky man to hear such a system. I use an Aesthetix Calypso pre amp as part of my top end reference system. I love his work.

[@Extremesam43]

I was skeptical about buying any tube equipment. I figured it was just for people romancing the old vintage days but I took your advice and bought an inexpensive Aiyima tube phono amplifier just to hear what they sound like. I was amazed! It gave me the impression it fills in the gaps between instruments. With solid state or chips you hear for example separate cello and flute. With a tube, you hear the cello and flute playing next to each other. You begin to see solid state can actually sound sterile. I hear the difference and I am going to pursue it more. Sad though, I just bought a $500 Parasound phono amp and found I like the $70 Aiyima tube better. Oh well, more audio equipment for me. So sad.

[@danielcarlsson615]

Hi. What aiyma was that ?

[@chinmeysway]

try to compare blind? those are still op amp based / chips and seems unlikely they’d change things much compared to solid state. i’ve heard one and it is pretty fine but it’s just puzzling if the tubes are driven very hard.

[@philhenderson7635]

Great video again Paul! I have gone the classic route at reasonable cost. I use the musical fidelity XLPS with the separate XPSU power supply. I use a gold ring moving iron cartridge too. Although the cost is modest the quality is high for MM but has a limited number of setting for MC users. On a personal level I am very happy with what I have. If I had unlimited funds I would stretch to an Avid pulses phono stage but at present my budget will not allow that lol.

[@mikrophonie5633]

You should have put an "intermission" in the middle of this like they used to do in old movies that were three hours long.

[@markcarrington8565]

In a two box system, the power box is not an amplifier, it's a discrete mains transformer and smoothing circuit, supplying clean, low voltage DC to the phono stage. In cheap phono stages this is often done in a nasty switch mode power supply mounted on the back of the plug, sometimes known as a wall wart. An easy upgrade to these boxes is to replace them with a linear power supply of the correct specification.

[@quitmanlott7394]

All power is not created equal. Dirty power destroys filter circuits like capacitors. With clean power, equipment last longer and runs better. Its not just for phono pre amps. A good line filter (smoothing circuit) is an investment, it is a lot cheaper than replacing a theater amp. That being said, the wall warts electronically, are not that bad. Billons have been sold, and used by billons of happy customers. A "better" of this type is often not audibly noticeable. A good 110v line filter is a better investment.

[@chrisnyc3641]

Thank you! There is shockingly little content on KZbin (or anywhere really) about phono preamps. It's like most HiFi reviewers have forgotten that phono preamps exist - a strange oversight given the current revival of vinyl records. I'm looking for an endgame phonostage, leaning towards PS Audio Stellar Phono, but it's hard to understand how its performance stacks up against other options with similar specs like the Hegel V10, Gold Note PH10, or Pass XP-15.

[@pnddesign]

Yes, many reviews on the budget side, bit on the high end, I don’t know what to choose.

[@adamlemons7909]

Sweet! Now that I know that a phono amplifier is an amplifier and not a preamplifier. I can go out and get one so I can plug my speakers into it and get rid of my main amplifier. You just saved me so much space and money! Thank you :-)

[@thespaceace2112]

I use the Bellari VP549 phono preamp. It sounds better than the Schiit Mani and cost just a little more ($150). It has more clarity and punch when compared to the Mani. Well worth it.

[@stephc4427]

I have both of these too and completely agree.

[@evowhite777]

Great video Paul,some very good advice for beginners especially. My choice is my own phono stage.. The Rega Aria mk1(pure analog, separate mm & mc stages) if set up & used correctly, you'll have to spend way over £1k for "better sound quality"! In saying this most people will assume fancy buttons on the front(or a digital display)equates to a "better phono stage"! Cheers. #vinyl4ever

[@luton_gmanrock]

Great video again Paul. I highly recommend the Moon 110LP V2, I entertained a different world when I bought this PHONO-STAGE. I call it phono stage because it is the stage between the stylus and the main amplifier that powers your speakers. Nice to see a HANA ML being shown too, I have a HANA EH which I want to upgrade to a HANA SH (Shibata stylus) to reduce IGD (Inner Groove Distortion), another issue I hate.

[@TheAudiophileMan]

Phono Stage is fine - I placed a Leema phono 'stage' in the video to confirm that :) And yes, Hana is an excellent brand.

[@paulkabrna345]

The Esoteric E-02 at £8500 is an expensive phonostage but you get a lot for that. There are inputs for three turntables (two RCA and one XLR). It automatically selects the parameters required for your cartridge - no dip switches, no gain knobs etc. It also has a demag option. Even the hifi review on the unit states it's under-priced! Very good review of the topic. I had been considering the Icon Audio unit you mentioned as well.

[@nick3795]

Really informative Paul, thanks it definitely has got me thinking. The price rises and it's "Oh, that one..." I am so useless at saving money, could I justify saving for a Phono Stage? I'll try but £19K has no hope. Great video.

[@TheAudiophileMan]

Many thanks.

[@hifijunkieTX]

Two I would recommend are: 1. Musical Surroundings Phonomena II+ - fairly budget (~$750) and handles both MM and MC easily. Solid performance at this price point and what I'd consider 'entry level' when first upgrading to a moving coil cartridge. 2. Modwright PH 9.0X - valves with a separate power supply. Options for balanced outputs. Really wonderful, but also moving into mid-range pricing at ~$4750

[@hifijunkieTX]

WHEST audio also makes some great phono amplifiers at around the same price point as the Modwright. If I remember correctly, those are all solid state, so is more in line with the 'solid state' sound.

[@mikec3412]

Man, this video was so helpful. I was getting fustrated thinking why do I need a preamp for my preamp and amp. Breaking it down into 2 amplification stages really helps to understand whats going on.

[@tonydoyle5047]

I have bought three phono stages in the past two years . The£180 Graham Slee Gram amp 2, the £135 Schiit Mani and the £200 Rega phono MM. In my opinion with a AT VM95ML the Rega is the best sounding but it's a close run thing and the Schiit is much more adjustable and also does MC cartridges.

[@EclecticMusicMan]

I have done a similar thing but with different models. I am interested in the Rega fono Mk3 MM as I am running AT-VM540ML and it requires 100-200pF. The rega Brio amp has a phono stage but it’s input is 200pF so too high. Is the Rega Fono that much better than the other two?

[@eddiehawkins7049]

It is possible to buy a valve phono amp for less than £1000. World Designs produce seperate phono and power supply kits which are available for you to build or are ready built. You end up with a two box solution which costs a tad under £600 (diy) or £850 (pre built). The power supply will also power their pre amp if you decide to add this later.

[@TheAudiophileMan]

TIME STAMP TO TAKE YOU TO THE HARDWARE SECTION OF THE VIDEO: kzbin.info/www/bejne/o4HRq3uZZ7h4adU

[@tonydeniro284]

I own the Tavish Design the Classic and replaced the JJ tubes with vintage Tungscram and GE tubes, sounds great. I use a Jensen MC-2RR SUT to step up the voltage from my Hana EL mc, then into the mm section of the Tavish the Classic.

[@petebakke6167]

Great Video......My Pick is the.. Project Tube Box DS2 Phenomenal !!

[@stephc4427]

Paul, reminder that often, there are at least two more amplification stages after the phono stage; the preampfification stage, either built-in in an integrated amp or as a stand alone separate, and the power amplification driving the speakers.

[@golfjunkymusicjunky8370]

Spot on again....just what we need for beginning audioflles..................

[@quitmanlott7394]

The phono preamp reads changes in the cartridge’s magnetic potential inside the phono cartage, this is at an even lower level in some cartridges. For these, you may need a bit more adjustable circuitry to get a good reading. The phono preamp's job is to bring the cartridge's readings of its magnetic potential, up to the useable level of amplification for a standard RCA input. An integrated pre amp's job is to select and process one of the pre amp's standard RCA input signals, and be the master volume adjustment for the amp that it controls. When looking at the phono preamp's adjustments, look at the gain as current, and the volume as voltage.

[@robh9079]

Thumbs up to dipswitches where there is a one time(ish) adjustment. Use a flathead precision screwdriver - you'll find about 13 of them in the man-drawer. Some great 'chi-fi' psu upgrades.....double check as some are AC - AC.

[@deadandburied7626]

Have an external AND a built in phono stage, you can run 2 turntables on an integrated amplifier, without using a 2nd pair of main sockets.

[@CamelotRecords]

I rarely comment on videos but for this I must. This was simply excellent in content, description, and instruction. Well put together. I Truly appreciate your time and effort sir.

[@TheAudiophileMan]

That’s very kind of you, thank you.

[@aussierob7177]

Hi Paul. I have been using the Western Electric Mini Max phono stage for some time now. It is connected to an Audiolab preamplifier which sends the signal to a Rotel Power amp. Very happy with the sound.

[@andymill32]

Got a Parks Audio Puffin recently and love it! Anyone else here? You should give it a try Paul, love how you can dial it in for different carts and records that are a little too compressed using its warmth and air settings etc, magic is really good, isn't too hardcore, removes a lot of pops and crackles but not all, also love the various tests, rpm, azimuth, anti skate etc.

[@sylvian24]

congrats for "Gone to Earth" on your background! my fav artist!

[@bob11712]

Was about to comment the same, you did it for me.

[@PhilZeGerman]

Hello Audiophile Man and commenters :) I am new to the hifi game and I would love some advice: I was given an old Thorens TD 170 turntable, which I found out are not the worst-worst but nothing too fancy, either. It has a Ortofon DM 10 cartridge, of which I don't know if it's the stanard it comes with or whatever. I also have a LOT of vinyl. I buy it mainly because I like to support the (mostly smaller) bands I buy it from and also because I like the extra artwork etc. I do not have any nice setup to speak of, tho, to listen to them. Since I am a beginner like I said, and I am also not SUPER demanding when it comes to sound quality haha, but I am a musician and I still would like to be able to listen to my vinyl in a decent fashion (and also to not look like a complete savage in front of some of my more audiophile friends) I would like to get started with my setup. Since I would like to also use my speakers with my tv and I lack the cash to get both a sound bar for that purpose AND a hifi setup, I've been looking at the Nubert nuPro SP-200 speakers. Those are ACTIVE, however. Could you guys maybe recommend me a decent pre-amp (or phono amp?! Which one is it with active speakers?? :D ) which I can use to put in between my turntable and my possibly future active speakers? Thank you very much and a happy new year everyone! :)

[@firecatfly]

Superb! My studio uses the Pro-Ject with great success. Many thanks for a fascinating discussion.

[@jeffsawdon586]

Unfortunately my experience, and I’ve tried three costing £200 odd, you would need to spend a lot to notice any difference from a good integrated amp phono stage. Mine is Marantz PM6006 and killed Project, Cambridge and Zen units.

[@matthiasschnapka6498]

Paul Rigby# If you are a Tube kinda guy as you say......Check out the LUXMAN EQ-500 ( A LOT OF KNOBS AND SWITCHES on the Front ( NO DIP SWITCHES AT ALL) for Gain, Impedance, Input Channel, etc,. 2 UV Meters, an internal but nice separated & shielded Tube Power Supply, a 6 Valves Phono Amp Section, Tube Cupling Caps from German Mundorf, high-class Takamishawa Caps all over the board, 4 shielded Input Transformers for MC High and MC Low; all that Amp Section in an extra shielding internal Copper box, separate 2 more Output Transformers, 3 Inputs (MC or MM is totally up to your choice ) Balanced XLR Output for a total stack of 6000,-€ in Mainland Europe. Expensive for sure, but fairly priced for what it will offer to you. Cheers

[@waregraham8335]

I would add, having owned one, roll in some nice NOS tubes The BAT VK10 or 12 is the next upgrade from the EQ500

[@WyreForestBiker]

Never use 3 words when 33 will do : (

[@ianyates7742]

Yes he does waffle on a bit

[@TheNaboen]

@@ianyates7742 And thats what makes this videos great, imo.

[@eddiehawkins7049]

@@TheNaboen I agree. He has an entertaining way about him.

[@thedudeabides1977]

I just watched it at 2x speed… didn’t mind the loquaciousness so much as the pace, I experience some attention challenges but the playback speed change helped a lot. Great video - thank you!

[@DoctorLeeches]

Isn’t that the entire point of of being British? Some of us love that shit…

[@ericekhoff7318]

Hello Paul, I do apologize if this comment is lengthy but I have some questions. I am new to the Hi-Fi world and I am looking at getting the Audio-Technica LP120X turntable, I'm also looking at getting the Yamaha R- N303 Stereo Receiver which has a phono input. I Chose these options because of budgeting purposes and I feel like these options would give me the best sound for the money. My question is if I go with these options do I need a Phono Amplifier? Can I even hook all of that up together? Would it sound better if I had a Phono Amplifier? I am just not sure. I watched your video on the turntable and I have subscribed to your channel. Very good information and I look forward to watching more of your videos. Again I apologize for the lengthy comment have a good one Paul great videos!!

[@TheAudiophileMan]

Thanks Eric - you can use the turntable's internal phono amplifier if you wish and that will get you by but an external model is superior in sound terms. The Pro-Ject MM Phono (£69) is ideal. You'll need a pair of phono cables too. Look at QED and get the best you can afford (Amazon).

[@georgeanastasopoulos5865]

Although I'm a bit beyond a beginner, I thought I'd watch another one of your hi fi audio demonstration videos. Thank you for clarifying that it can be called a phono amplifier; I usually called it a phono pre-amplifer, or phono preamp, because that is what my Rolls VP29 (2012) made in the USA is called. I'm going to upgrade it with one of two phono amplifiers that I recently purchased. I've bought 2 phono amplifiers, an NFJ & FX-Audio- Model; BOX02, and a Cambridge Audio Alva Duo MM/MC phono amplifier. I plan to use one of them on another turntable, a refurbished, repaired used, odd Rega Planar 3 (circa 1982), Linn Basik Plus Tonearm that I installed with a new AT95E MM for now that I have mounted ; that's right me. Anyway, I'm going to upgrade, and experiment. I am going to connect the FX-Audio BOX02 to my used Harman Kardon T25 Turntable whereby I replace an AT70 MM cartridge with a used Denon DL-80A MC cartridge. Connection is to a Sony DH520 Receiver 85W (2012). And soon I'm going to replace that stylus. However, here is my dilemma; how can I adjust the settings correctly if the Operating Manual of the FX-Audio BOX02 does not have more specific instructions about setting the Impedance Matching? Thank you for your time, and consideration.🔉🎵🎶

[@TheAudiophileMan]

By all means , you have fun with all of that hardware but, as you're asking. I would question using a MC cart with the HK and Sony. Even a lower-cost model like the Denon. I really wonder if you'll get the best out of a MC in that set up. I would have recommended a solid MM cart which can often be more insightful and ba;anaed, especially at lower prices, and especially more recent models. Then, on the basis, for a basic phono amp like the BOX, I wouldn't worry about it. Especially if you're using moving magnet. One thing, the second hand MC cart, do you know its full provenance or was it bought off somewhere like eBay? But look, who am I to tell you not to get stuck in and have a whale of a time with that older kit? Enjoy yourself :)

[@georgeanastasopoulos5865]

@@TheAudiophileMan Thank you very much for your quick reply, answers, and wise advice. In the case you have suggested, I have recently bought a new Goldring E2 MM cartridge. Later I changed my mind, and also bought the E3 stylus, that I'm to fit it later on to another Rega Upgrade DiY. Therefore, as you have advised I'll certainly consider a "solid MM cart" that's more insightful, and balanced. Yes, Denon DL-80A MC was bought from ebay seller who sells such hi fi audio, by the way. I asked about the conditions of its stylus, and it is still good for a hundred hours; from what that seller said. Anyway, I heard that if any turntable, or used cartridge is bought a stylus most likely should be replaced soon. Concerning a higher priced MC cartridge, and newer hi fi such as a phono amplifier - a Moon 110LP, It's just that I'm a bit of a miser with today's high cost of hi fi audio equipment.🔉🎵

[@EsotericArctos]

Funny as it may be, Moving Coil cartridges are not more advanced technology. They are the same technology as moving magnet. There is still a magnet and coil that move in relation to each other. The reason Moving Coil can be preferred is because there is that slightly less weight on the stylus support and can allow the stylus to follow the groove with more accuracy. The external phono pre-amp is good if you are initially on a budget. You can grab the cheaper one, then upgrade when you have the cash where an all in one integrated system is difficult to upgrade just one part.

[@gregorysgarro6233]

Paul great video! explained quite a bit of info I needed to get back on track as I upgrade this part of my system over the next year.

[@carlosgoulart7865]

Hi. congratulations on the videos. (Brazilian in the area) with modest system: at-pl120 and denon 600ne (pma + dcd), Bookshelf Klipsch R-15m. in order to improve the sound and add an equalizer. which would indicate preamp phono ? and equalizer? Thanks in advance!

[@sandeepkaul3315]

Nicely done, thanks for breaking your choices down by price. Any opinions on Rega Aria vs Gold Note PH-10? The user interface of the latter strikes me as actually being ‘modern’ if not outright cool!

[@liverpoolscottish6430]

Hi Paul, I have only discovered your excellent channel very recently. I would very much appreciate your advice. I run a Lenco GL75 turntable with Linn separates- pre-amp and power amp. I've modified the GL75 with PTFE V blocks in the original tone arm, and the G800 cartridge is modified with a Ruby cantilever and Fritz Geiger diamond tip. It's mounted in a nice plinth to finish it off. The performance is superb- audiophile quality playback. I'm looking at investing in a dedicated phono stage, currently, the Linn pre-amp is running the deck through it's inbuilt phone. I believe that further improvements can be made with a dedicated phono stage. I'm considering a Michael Fidler MM PRO phono, or a Vertere phono stage. Which one would you recommend based on your extensive knowledge base? If it was your set up, what would you opt for Paul? Many thanks! :)

[@stephenrix4883]

What if I already use a tube amp in my system? I am currently using a soundcraftsmen PE2217-R pre amp/eq. will i need a tube amp & pre amp for the turntable?

[@AJ-cv4ts]

Hi, great video, both informative and entertaining. My question, has anyone experienced the Vincent PHO-300? It seems great value for the money. Thanks!

[@craigmelissa12]

Excellent tutorial. Thanks and Happy New Year Paul.

[@vadiquemyself]

I'm using Fosi Audio BOX X3 phono preamp and bluetooth digital-to-analog converter, and I like it

[@bobbyyounger7632]

Excellent instruction and advice sir, thanks !

[@carljung9230]

how does someone get into hifi and not understand what the phono amp does (and how important it is)? i know it is possible, but just seems improbable.

[@viderethevaccinatorfromhol7536]

I own the Arcam Rphono preamp. I bought it a few years back after doing some research online and read all the reviews. It was a steel after all. MM + MC but it has that flipping settings part at its ass. Arcam added a flipping flipper thing in the package. It's not the cheapest but definitely not the most expensive. Everyone knows it's a awesome phono preamp for the money and above. You didn't? Now you know.

[@eugenefudge3685]

Paul I just purchased a ifi Zen phono preamp and it sounds better than the one in my Macintosh ma252. I would love to hear your thoughts on this.

[@TheAudiophileMan]

Interesting. I haven't heard the 252's built-in model but I am always promoting the virtues of an external design so if you hear an improvement then run with it.

[@williamsmollett8752]

Hi Paul - I use the Timestep T01MC moving coil phono stage with Dynavector DV20X cartridge - it's a fantastic phono stage but a bit "under the rader" - keep up the good work.

[@garyvause2628]

I am using an mxvinyl phonostage with a mcru power supply on my michell orb se turntable with an ortofon quintet black s cartridge and the sound is amazing the mxvinyl is a great phono amp and being small it takes up less space on the rack .

[@tomrochester7381]

Is the Audiophile man also the man from Techmoan? 2 quality KZbin channels, respect!

[@vinylrulesok8470]

My chrome plated Art Audio Phono stage is a beatific piece of equipment and is displayed prominently so not all phono amps are unremarkable. The Puresound P10 ran it very close and is a bargain

[@rich.e]

That Art Audio looks glorious; hope it sounds as good as it looks; the Puresound must really go some to get close. I have found my own bit of nirvana with an NJC Reference Phono... just need to upgrade the system that surrounds it!

[@pjisonline]

Good video, thank you. But you didn't mention the RIAA correction which is an essential characteristic for a phono amp.

[@3WAY-MIRROR]

i have a lounge audio phono preamp and am happy with it . would like to see you do a video on it , they are inexpensive ish and have positive reviews from others. a good one man company

[@MrRoy103]

Thank you for this video. May I Know which phono-amp pairs well with Audio Technica AT-LPW40WN? Cheers!

[@MrRoy103]

I'm currently playing it direct to Klipsch r-51pm speakers.

[@Cynicalian]

Great video Paul, thanks very much for getting round to this so quickly. It was only a few weeks ago that you said that you would and you've done a great job mate. an issue, committing to buying a £2000 cartridge every 2 or 3 years is a big leap for me and I don't feel that any point I'm going to moving above the level of something like the Cadenza Black regardless of how much money I have, the law of diminishing returns seems to really kick in above that point and the problem with cartridges unlike electronics is that they have a finite life. So I struggle with this dilemma; will spending more money on a phono amp yield greater results if I'm only ever going to use mid market/ entry level high end cart? Or is there perhaps an argument for putting more money into a phono amp and perhaps less in to cartridge? I don't expect you to have any answers btw, this is more about my musing . :-) For what it's worth I can recommend the Heed Questar and the model up the Quasar is also rather good (couldn't' afford it at the time). I've demoed the Rega Aria which was excellent and the Musical Fidelity MX VNL (not so keen on the wall wart PS) but it sounded pretty good. I owned a Lehmann Audio Black Cube for many years that was a brilliant value for money phono amp.

[@JamesSmith-qy3eu]

''Tinny, tiny screeching noises coming from the grooves''. Thank you, I didn't know if that was normal or not. I heard that tinny sound of the record when I'm very close to the turntable. I did wonder if it was normal to hear that.

[@ianyates7742]

I am running a dynavox tpr2 witch is a two part power supply, phono pre amp it is compatible with mm and mc inputs and it utilises tube and ic stages at about £170.00 give ore take. So far I am pleasantly surprised how good it is for the money 😎

[@RobertDoyle1]

I'm very pleased with my PJL Electronics tube phono preamplifier. Really great price too.

[@jdthompson5778]

Question: In relation to TT and cartridge cost, How do you determine the price range of a phono stage that will improve sound as much as possible without being overkill for the other equipment? Why pay more than you can benefit from? I have a nice recently refurbished vintage wood base Dual CS 5000 turntable (late 80s) with an Ortofon Blue 3M Cart. My integrated amp is a HK 655vxi (late 80s also Neely refurbished/cleaned). Wharfedale 85th Anniversary Linton Speakers. Currently I’m using the built-in phono stage on the HK., A couple years ago I tried a Mofi phono stage (about $350) but sent it back because I was getting s bunch of noise and him. The sound I get with the built in phono in stage in the amp is decent for sure. Just curious if I could improve the sound with a separate phono stage but don’t want to spend more than I’ll benefit from.

[@TheAudiophileMan]

The over-riding initial factor is your budget. That rules all. After that, as a rough guide, you see what sort of ball park your HiFi sits within. If it's a sub £1k system then your phono amp should be too, etc. But never under estimate the importance of a phono amp. I know some turntable designers who believe that it's of more sonic significance than the cartridge. External anything is better than included anything on a HiFi system, HiFi is anti social. This is why pre amps and power amps exist and why all amps are not integrated. Because separating the control and power sections in an amplifier improves sound. And that is one minor example.

[@jdthompson5778]

@@TheAudiophileMan Thanks! I have about a 1k vintage TT (with a $239 Ortofon 2M Blue cart). A vintage integrated AMP $800. $1500 new speakers. So let’s say around $3300 total system for playing records. Currently using vintage HK integrated amp’s phono stage. What price range of Phono Stage would you recommend that would upgrade my sound noticeably? Is this the first place my next bunch of money should go? Is the phono stage more important than the cartridge/stylus? I realize I don’t have an audiophile level of equipment but could see myself spending several thousand more over the next 5 years. Trying to prioritize where I will hear the most improvement given it’s all important.

[@leonsam12]

Which phono has a brighter sound? That will bring my music to life??

[@The-Spotlight-Kid]

Absolutely. I learnt via my own ears that the "Phono Amp" makes or breaks the potentially fantastic quality of vinyl. In late 70's when i started buying 'real' equioment to hear my records, all my pre-amps of that day... (before seperate phono-stages existed, bar proff' EMT record deck's modular fitted stages) ...stood or fell on the quality of their internal phono stages alone. Power supply for Phono stages makes huge differences too.

[@mauricecorreia3674]

I am thinking of purchasing the Pro-Ject X10 (I did watch your review). Couple of questions. Do you think the Phone Box RS2 Phono Preamp is a appropriate compliment to the X10? Also would the Sumiko Starling Cartridge make a difference based on the price increase. Thanks in advance, Maurice

[@thisisnev]

When it comes to vintage amps, Paul, I have to disagree. Their main task was to amplify vinyl, so they lived or died by the quality of their phono stages.

[@salmonline]

yup.

[@manFromPeterborough]

Many of them have no sub filter - annoying

[@highfell1]

Completely agree - see my separate reply

[@matthiasklein9608]

True, but their RIAA equalization is not als good as that of quality modern phono amps.

[@MegaSnake76]

the Rotel A10 is also A good choice too .

[@magusdigious8374]

Great video! I tried doing a search for phono amps but all that comes up is pre-amps. Any suggestions or recommendations on improving searches? Looking for one in the $100-$200 range.

[@TheAudiophileMan]

May I ask what the rest of the system will consist of?

[@harrysmusicroom]

Excellent video, thanks. So would the pro-ject tube box ds2 phono preamplifier be a good choice for my Pro-ject Carbon EVO with Rainier?

[@TheAudiophileMan]

Indeed.

[@harrysmusicroom]

@@TheAudiophileMan thanks....but I really think, for the money, I'm going with the iFi Zen Phono

[@mrpositronia]

Do budget valve phono amps make the most of their valves? Eg: the Project Tube Box S2? I'd love an affordable 'valve sounding' phono amp.

[@TheAudiophileMan]

The Pro-Ject is very nice for the price point, sure. If you get the cash, also look at this one: theaudiophileman.com/p10-phono-amplifier-pure-sound-review/

[@tonyjedioftheforest1364]

I didn’t realise that I could get a phono amp for under £70, as my budget is tiny I think I will try one. I want to use my second turntable with my main amp so I presume that I can use the Project through my aux input.

[@TheAudiophileMan]

For an external phono amp, any available input is fine - just not the inputs labelled 'Phono' at the rear of an amplifier.

[@tonyjedioftheforest1364]

@@TheAudiophileMan thank you for your information. I am using an old Technics integrated amp at the moment while I get my Heybrook pre amp repaired but it would be nice to run a second turntable. My original Pink Triangle turntable has been sat in the shed for more than 20 years as it started to sound slow and my local hifi shop Moorgate Acoustics could not put it right but I have found a company online who can give it a full service and provide an improved power supply. It would be nice to get it going once more as back in the 1980’s I preferred it to the Linn Sondek LP12.

[@josephrobson2553]

Great video Paul, I definitely understand phono amps far better. I recently bought the marantz pm6007, which has inbuilt phono and sounds fantastic to me - could I really improve it with a couple of hundred quid phono amp?

[@TheAudiophileMan]

Absolutely. And thanks.

[@momi63]

Hi Paul, I love your videos, you're so knowledgeable. I need advice from an expert like yourself. I own an Audio Technica AT LP120 (that I don't want anymore), Vintage Marantz 2250, and Vintage JBL 4312 speakers. I want to change the Turntable to a Rega Planar 3 or Pro-ject X1 and thinking to purchase a Pro-Ject Tube Boy DS2 as a Phono Preamplifier. Is this a good choice, will it pair nicely with the Vintage JBL and Marantz or would you recommend something different? BTW I live in Toronto, Canada Thank You!

[@TheAudiophileMan]

Yes, you're on the right track there with that short list.

[@momi63]

@@TheAudiophileMan Thank you Paul! I feel more confident now with my choice!

[@slistone1940]

I have a McIntosh MA5200 integrated amp (cost: $4500 new). It has an onboard photo preamp. Would I still get some improvement by buying a separate? How much would I have to spend to get that improvement?

[@felipeopazomusic]

Any thoughts about the Vincent phono preamps? I'm looking for a preamp to use with my Audiolab 6000a, interested on the Vincent Pho 300 (formerly Pho 800) and Vincent 701. All the best from Chile

[@TheAudiophileMan]

I’ve reviewed their integrated amps but not their phonos. I do like their general designs, though so I would imagine that their phono amps would work well.

[@johmyavorski2766]

Have a 701 with a soundsmith zephyr cart. Replaced the Chinese tube with a nos amprex bugle boy for about $95 took it to another level

[@danielcarlsson615]

I had the project black box in many years,since I bought the project 1,2. Upgraded to ortofon blue. Then I took a micro mega mygroove home . And……it was so much difference thar I bought it. Like the music was stamped into the soundstage instead of throwing it up with a hand full of gravel!! Everything got clear edges and black background. I think I be upgrade to mc after this,but I donno if the turntable is worth it?

[@qononej]

Good day Audiophile Man. I have an AT lp120x and Klipsch The Fives. If I want to run the Pro-ject MM, or another, do I set my TT switch to phono and the Klipsch The Fives switch to phono or line? 3+ years late. Thank you for the informative video.

[@darrellchitwood9167]

I have a Decware Zp3 Tube phono amp and a Parks Audio Puffin phono sap amp for 78’s and early lp’s with non RIAA curve.

[@tonysmith4494]

Thanks for the info... I have an old Technics integrated Amp. I am looking at buying a used Marantz amp to play my records. Should I still look into buying a phono amp to use with the Marantz. I get some noise with my Technics Amp today, but the noise is coming from my equalizer. But if I turn off the EQ the sound is very flat. What do you suggest?

[@TheAudiophileMan]

My advice is to remove the equaliser completely. It adds nothing to sound quality. In fact it removes it. Next? It depends on the amp model you're going for - what's your budget?

[@tonysmith4494]

@@TheAudiophileMan Thank you for your response. I was looking at Marantz sr4320, but I saw on some reviews that the built in phono pre-amp is noisy. But regarding my budget I was looking at around $300 for a used Marantz.

[@tonysmith4494]

@@TheAudiophileMan The Amp I currently have is a Technics SU-G95. What do you think is a good upgrade to this. Again, I'm on a budget so looking a used amps

[@mattparker8747]

Good advice, but, there are plenty of amps out there that have a phono stage - my Rotel for example. Implying that no amplifiers can handle a direct connection from a turntable is not correct and could be confusing, or even possibly cause people to spend money they don't need to

[@ThomasL]

Greetings ! I have one specific ask, I own an highly modified Thorens TD160 with a Nagaoka MP-110 Cartridge, plugged into an Accuphase E-305, the phono stage of this amp is brilliant, but one problem, the output level, if I compare some listening of the same albums on my Studio Converter or my CD Player, I have, nearly half of lower output level (Like I litteraly bring the level up by half), so I'm looking for a phono stage, at least as good as the ones on Accuphase amps, and with a much higher output level (MP-110 is given to have a 5mV output), so, if you have any advices for this demand, i'm a taker ! And please, no Tubes/Valves solutions. Thanks !

[@AC8038]

Great Video. Quick question what would you recommend for a Ruark R7 which has a built in a phono stage already? also would it make sense to plug my phono amplifier into the phono stage or aux, line in sockets?

[@TheAudiophileMan]

The RCA inputs would be a good place to plug an external phono amp which will be superior to the built in model.

[@dean6816]

Rega MC Fono (it's a moving coil phono stage but they also do a moving magnet version). MC £249 / MM £200.

[@TheThomo90]

Hi, I have just re started my vinyl love affair, after a near 20 year absence, I have begun with the Pro-ject A1 auto turntable, using the built in phono stage, would I benefit from using the pro-ject seperate phone , will I hear a difference? I have a small budget of up to £200, Currently using an Arcam A90 amp, Q Acoustic Q40s floorstanders with bi wire rocket22 cable. Just to throw in to the mix, I am seriously saving to upgrade the turntable to the debut pro later in the year, so would like a phono stage that may also do justice to this, I know, I dont ask much!! thanking you in anticipation, Andy T.

[@paulmcloughlin9913]

I have a technics su-v620 intergrated amp, an a technics SL- 3200 turntable my speakers are kef LS50 metas, i think my sound is excellent would i benefit from a phono amp an if so what would recommended thank you

[@danielgeiger7739]

What would you suggest for a rough price ratio of phono stage to TT&cartridge? The one data point I have is SoundSmith Zephyr MIMC* cartridge ($2K) and the SoundSmith MCP2 II phono stage designed for that cartridge for $1.2K. And if we assume that this sort of cartridge is used on a table about costing at least as much as the cartridge, then we are looking at $4-6K for TT set up (I have it on a VPI super prime scout) and phono stage of ~$1.5K so a ~1:2-3 ratio. Does that sound about right? On sub $1K MC phono stages, one should check carefully that cartridge output (mV) and PS gain (dB) match. I was burned by buying a Vincent PHO701 (60 dB, not adjustable) with the Zephyr (0.4 mV), and that was too low a gain. That phono stage also picks up radio station; maybe a grounding problem of TT arm, but not sure how to fix that. Will upgrade the PS anyway, so not worried about it. I am currently looking at phono stages and have not heard of any of the brands you indicated (except the Pro-ject box). A bit surprising. I am most likely going for a 12AX7 tubed EAT E-glow petite ($1.5K) with an upgraded power supply, maybe upgraded tubes. The other one I considered was the solid state SoundSmith MCP2 II, but was advised it was too clinical, something you also note for solid state PS. Both get very good reviews. Unfortunately, there is no way of listening to any with current Covid situation.

[@jakemurphy9536]

I don't think that you will be disappointed with the E. A. T phono stage. It's very good.

[@danielgeiger7739]

@@jakemurphy9536 Thanks for feedback and confirmation! looked at the midrange PS recommended in video. Goldnote was possibly the most interesting, but it is solid state and according to reviews & BB discussions the optional tubed power supply is not making much of a difference.

[@alexknot]

I have an essentials 3, plugged on the Pro-ject box mm and the sound is great to me. So the question is.. how noticeable (for a newbie) is the difference in the sound quality from the Box MM to a Pure sound for example? Speakers are some cheap edifiers.

[@highfell1]

Maybe I am old fashioned but to pay the £500 for a budget phone amp is to my mind ridiculous. I picked up a vintage Marantz PM75 amplifier for £200 off EBay. It was highly regarded in its time. It also has built in a fabulous DAC with a Silver Crown TDA 1541 chip. Being vintage it has a phono amp (in fact for both MM & MC cartridges). I just don’t believe the modern phone Amps will be THAT much better. As it happened I bought a vintage Manticore Mantra (between a Rega Planar 3 and a Linn Sondek LP12) for £260. So for less than the cost of your budget phono amp - I have an absolutely fantastic sounding turntable and Amp.

[@jonathanhotopf1823]

I know what you mean about those dip switches, I always find a watchmakers screwdriver ideal for adjusting the settings on my Arcam rphono phono amp.

[@aidan463]

Does yours not have the tool with it? Mine has a dip switch tool in a slit in the back of the rphono

[@joeymimekos]

My main amp is an old Sansui 1000x with an integrated phono in. This is connected to a Technics SL 2000. I'm wanting to purchase a separate phono Amp. My question is should it be an Amp or a preamp? And also... should I connect it to the phono in on the main after going through the phono amp?

[@TheAudiophileMan]

The best option is to take the turntable, connect that to an external phono amp, then the phono runs to your main amp. This will offer superior performance to the built in model.

[@williamrose7434]

Legendary information as usual Paul .. something for everyone .. I’m on a pro-ject tube box and I’ve tube rolled with some nice differences but I’m wondering if I could do better at that price point .. 400-£500 .. any suggestions out there? I hear good things about some of the more budget stages out there and wonder if the pro-ject is a touch overpriced Regards will

[@HarveyJohnWillmott]

Sorry for the stupid question. If I have a phono stage amplifier, I don’t need a pre amp for the main amp?

[@biketech60]

Available USA manufacturer direct , the Ray Samuels F-117 Nighthawk $799 +shipping is a gem . Battery powered (recharger included) , Zero noise at any gain setting , it has adjustments for MM & MC , a sturdy aluminum case and all parts and circuit board are military spec Plays only on battery , never with charger inserted . No price increase in >5years . see 6 moons audio review I am one happy customer with no connection to the company . Plays 2 days on a full charge . Did I say it sounds fantastic ? A giant killer .

[@Tony-pk6ql]

Thank you for clarifying this issue for me.

[@garyharper2943]

I like dip switches much harder for someone to change. I have the original moon 110 lp and a specially made power supply made in Hong Kong to replace the wall wart.

[@VinylGolfHammers]

Well, I bought a pre-amp last week and my FLUANCE RT82 sound fantastic! But now I'm confused about what a "Phono Amplifier" is 🤪🤪

[@eudanielramos]

Hello Paul! Do you (or anybody here) know the Vincent PHO 300/500/701? I'm thinking about adding one of those to my sound system: Toshiba SR-F200 (from 1979) with Ortofon 2m Silver cartridge (MM) + Sony STRDH190 + JBL Stage A130. Any thoughts? Would they match this setup and indeed enhance the sound?

[@kkjrees]

I purchased a Cambridge audio Alva solo for my at-120lpx and was underwhelmed, then looking at this swapped it for the pro-ject phono box MM and the improvement was much more noticeable for less money? Now do I go for a Goldring e3 ? However I understand that it’s exactly the same as the at-vmn95en, ?

[@TheAudiophileMan]

The E3 is superior to the VM95e. I highly recommend it.