Do You Need a Phono Stage?

A phono stage (or phono preamp) is one of the most overlooked components in a vinyl Hi-Fi setup. Many people buy turntables without fully understanding the role of the phono stage, yet it plays a crucial part in delivering high-quality sound from your records.

What Does a Phono Stage Do?

Phono stages perform two essential functions:

• Signal Amplification

The signal produced by your turntable's cartridge is extremely quiet - typically around 5-6 millivolts. However, your amplifier expects a much stronger signal, closer to 2 volts, to drive your speakers properly. That's nearly 300 times louder! The phono stage bridges this gap by amplifying the signal to the appropriate level.

• Equalisation (RIAA Curve)

Vinyl records are cut using a specific equalisation curve (usually RIAA). A phono stage applies the reverse of this curve during playback, restoring the original tonal balance and ensuring the sound is rich, accurate, and detailed.

When Might You Not Need a Separate Phono Stage?

You’ll always need a phono stage to play vinyl, but some equipment has one built in. This includes certain turntables, powered speakers, and amplifiers. While built-in options are convenient, we recommend using an external phono stage for better sound quality and flexibility.

What Should You Consider When Buying a Phono Stage?

Here are three key questions to guide your purchase:

1. How much should I spend?
   As a rule of thumb, consider spending up to 50% of your turntable/cartridge’s value on a phono stage.
2. What kind of sound do I want?
   Sound character varies between models. Read reviews or audition units, if possible, to find one that suits your taste.
3. Is it future-proof?
   A good phono stage can grow with your system. If you plan to upgrade your turntable later, investing in a quality phono stage now can save you money and hassle down the line.

Pro-Ject Phono Box Buyer’s Guide

Before buying, ask yourself:

1. Is it compatible with my cartridge?
   Some phono stages support only Moving Magnet (MM) or Moving Coil (MC) cartridges, while others support both.
2. Can it be fine-tuned to match my cartridge?
   Adjustable settings like gain, impedance, and capacitance can significantly improve sound quality.
3. Does it support True Balanced Connection?
   This can reduce noise and improve clarity. (Learn more about True Balanced Connection here.)
4. Does it have the outputs I need?
   Options include RCA, XLR, Optical, USB, and Bluetooth.
5. Does it offer any special features I want?
   Whether it’s a unique design, connectivity option, or sound signature, make sure it meets your personal needs. If possible, try before you buy.*