A phono preamp is an essential part of many vinyl systems. It performs two jobs: amplifying the turntable’s low-level cartridge signal to line level and applying RIAA equalization to restore the frequency balance used when records are cut.
Without the correct phono stage, a turntable connected directly to a standard AUX or LINE input will usually sound extremely quiet and lack proper frequency balance.
The good news is that you don’t necessarily need an expensive preamp. A basic moving-magnet (MM) cartridge may work perfectly well with an affordable model, while more advanced moving-coil (MC) cartridges can benefit from adjustable gain and loading.
This guide compares five phono preamps for different needs, from an inexpensive entry-level solution to models with MC support, adjustable settings and Bluetooth transmission.
Best Phono Preamps at a Glance
| Phono Preamp | Best For | Cartridge Support | Main Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Behringer MicroPhono PP400 | Basic budget setup | MM | Simple, compact design |
| Schiit Mani 2 | Flexible all-around option | MM and MC | Four gain settings |
| Pro-Ject Phono Box S2 | Adjustable cartridge matching | MM and MC | Switchable gain and loading |
| iFi ZEN Phono 3 | Advanced MM and MC support | MM and MC | Four gain levels and adjustable loading |
| Pro-Ject Phono Box E BT5 | Wireless vinyl playback | MM | Bluetooth 5.2 output |
1. Behringer MicroPhono PP400 – Best Budget Phono Preamp
The Behringer MicroPhono PP400 is a compact, straightforward solution for a turntable that needs a separate phono preamp.
It is designed to amplify a moving-magnet cartridge signal and apply RIAA equalization before sending the audio to a standard line-level input on an amplifier, receiver or powered speaker.
The PP400 keeps things simple. It has stereo RCA inputs and outputs, as well as a ¼-inch TRS output. There are no adjustable gain or cartridge-loading controls, so it is best suited to a basic setup with a compatible MM cartridge.
Its main advantage is that it provides the essential phono-preamp function without requiring a large investment.
Key features:
- Moving-magnet phono preamp
- RIAA equalization
- Stereo RCA input and output
- ¼-inch TRS output
- Compact design
- External 12V power supply
Who it’s for: Anyone who needs an inexpensive phono stage for a basic MM turntable setup.
Who should skip it: Owners of low-output moving-coil cartridges or anyone who needs adjustable gain and loading.
2. Schiit Mani 2 – Best All-Around Flexible Option
The Schiit Mani 2 is a versatile MM/MC phono preamp that offers considerably more adjustment than a basic entry-level model.
It provides four selectable gain settings: 33, 42, 48 and 60dB. This makes it suitable for a wide range of cartridge output levels, including compatible moving-coil cartridges.
The Mani 2 also includes adjustable input loading. You can select different resistance and capacitance settings to match the requirements of your cartridge.
Another useful feature is its selectable low-frequency filter, which can help manage excessive woofer movement caused by record warps or other subsonic signals.
These adjustments make the Mani 2 a flexible choice if you expect to experiment with different cartridges in the future.
Key features:
- MM and MC cartridge support
- Four gain settings: 33, 42, 48 and 60dB
- Adjustable resistance and capacitance loading
- Selectable low-frequency filter
- Stereo RCA inputs and outputs
- External power supply
Who it’s for: Vinyl enthusiasts who want one phono preamp that can accommodate different MM and MC cartridges.
Who should skip it: Buyers who only need a basic MM phono stage and have no plans to change cartridges.
Read more about the Schiit Mani 2.
3. Pro-Ject Phono Box S2 – Best for Adjustable Cartridge Matching
The Pro-Ject Phono Box S2 is a compact phono preamp designed for listeners who want more control over cartridge matching.
It supports both moving-magnet and moving-coil cartridges, with four selectable gain levels and multiple input impedance and capacitance settings.
The available gain settings are 40, 43, 60 and 63dB. Its input impedance options include 47kΩ for MM cartridges and lower resistance settings for compatible MC cartridges.
The Phono Box S2 also includes a switchable subsonic filter designed to reduce unwanted low-frequency signals.
Its dual-mono configuration and adjustable settings make it a more flexible option than a simple fixed-gain phono preamp.
Key features:
- MM and MC cartridge support
- Four gain settings
- Adjustable input impedance
- Adjustable input capacitance
- Switchable subsonic filter
- Dual-mono construction
- Stereo RCA inputs and outputs
Who it’s for: Listeners who want to match a phono stage more closely to their cartridge’s electrical requirements.
Who should skip it: Beginners using a basic turntable with a standard MM cartridge who don’t need additional adjustment options.
4. iFi ZEN Phono 3 – Best for Advanced MM and MC Support
The iFi ZEN Phono 3 is a versatile phono preamp with support for both moving-magnet and moving-coil cartridges.
It offers four gain settings, ranging from 36dB for MM cartridges to 72dB for very-low-output MC cartridges. This makes it suitable for a wider range of cartridge output levels than a basic fixed-gain preamp.
The ZEN Phono 3 also introduces adjustable cartridge loading, allowing users to select settings appropriate for their cartridge. It includes a subsonic filter designed to help manage unwanted low-frequency signals caused by record warps.
Another useful feature is its balanced 4.4mm output alongside conventional RCA connections.
This is a more advanced option for people who want flexibility when changing cartridges or developing a more sophisticated vinyl system.
Key features:
- MM and MC cartridge support
- Four gain settings: 36, 48, 60 and 72dB
- Adjustable cartridge loading
- Switchable subsonic filter
- Balanced 4.4mm output
- Stereo RCA output
- External 5V power supply
Who it’s for: Enthusiasts who use or plan to explore different MM and MC cartridges, including low-output MC models.
Who should skip it: Anyone who only needs a simple phono preamp for a basic entry-level turntable.
5. Pro-Ject Phono Box E BT5 – Best for Adding Bluetooth Output
The Pro-Ject Phono Box E BT5 solves a different problem from the other models in this guide. Along with its phono-preamp function, it can transmit audio wirelessly to compatible Bluetooth speakers and headphones.
It supports moving-magnet cartridges and includes both a phono input and a separate line input. The phono input handles the low-level cartridge signal and applies RIAA equalization, while the line input accepts an already-amplified signal from another audio source.
Its Bluetooth 5.2 connection supports aptX, aptX HD and aptX Adaptive. This makes it useful for adding wireless playback to a turntable that doesn’t already include Bluetooth transmission.
The unit also provides an analogue line output, allowing wired and Bluetooth connections to be used simultaneously.
Key features:
- MM cartridge support
- Built-in phono preamp with RIAA equalization
- Bluetooth 5.2 transmission
- aptX, aptX HD and aptX Adaptive support
- Phono and line inputs
- Analogue line output
- Simultaneous analogue and Bluetooth output
Who it’s for: Anyone who wants to connect a traditional MM turntable to Bluetooth speakers or headphones without replacing the turntable.
Who should skip it: Owners of MC cartridges or turntables that already provide the Bluetooth output they need.
Do You Actually Need a Separate Phono Preamp?
Not every turntable requires an external phono preamp. Many modern models include one internally, while some amplifiers and receivers have a dedicated PHONO input.
You can work out what your setup needs with two checks.
1. Does Your Turntable Have a Built-In Phono Preamp?
Check the specifications for terms such as:
- Built-in phono preamp
- Built-in phono stage
- Switchable PHONO/LINE output
If your turntable has a built-in preamp, you can generally connect its LINE output to a standard AUX or LINE input on your amplifier or powered speakers.
2. Does Your Amplifier or Receiver Have a PHONO Input?
Look at the back of your amplifier or receiver.
If it has a dedicated input labeled PHONO, it may already contain the required phono stage. In that case, a turntable without a built-in preamp can connect directly to it.
If your turntable has a built-in preamp, make sure it is switched to PHONO or bypass mode when connecting to an amplifier’s PHONO input. Sending an already-amplified LINE signal into a PHONO input applies the phono amplification and equalization twice, which can cause distortion.
If neither your turntable nor your amplifier has a phono preamp, you’ll need an external unit.
For a more detailed explanation, see our guide to what a phono preamp does.
Budget vs. Advanced Phono Preamps: What Does the Extra Money Buy?
The main difference between basic and more advanced phono preamps is not simply price. It is the range of cartridges and system configurations they can accommodate.
A basic model such as the Behringer PP400 provides fixed-gain MM amplification and RIAA equalization. That may be all you need if you’re using a standard moving-magnet cartridge.
More flexible models add features such as:
- Adjustable gain: Useful when matching the preamp to cartridges with different output levels.
- Adjustable loading: Allows resistance and capacitance to be matched to cartridge specifications.
- MC support: Required for moving-coil cartridges, which can have much lower output than MM cartridges.
- Subsonic filtering: Helps reduce unwanted low-frequency signals.
- Balanced connections: Useful in compatible systems that support balanced audio connections.
Paying more is most useful when you actually need these features. A basic MM cartridge does not automatically require an expensive phono stage.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a phono preamp actually do?
A phono preamp amplifies the low-level signal produced by a turntable cartridge and applies RIAA equalization.
Records are cut using an equalization curve that reduces bass and increases treble. The phono preamp applies the inverse curve during playback to restore the intended frequency balance.
Without the correct phono stage, a turntable connected to a standard line input will generally sound very quiet and tonally incorrect.
Can I use any phono preamp with any turntable?
No. You need to check cartridge compatibility.
Most entry-level turntables use moving-magnet cartridges, which are supported by many affordable phono preamps.
Moving-coil cartridges require a preamp specifically designed to support MC operation. Low-output MC cartridges may also require higher gain and different input loading.
Always check the cartridge specifications and the preamp’s supported settings before buying.
Do I need a phono preamp if my turntable has Bluetooth?
You generally do not need a separate phono preamp for Bluetooth playback from a Bluetooth-enabled turntable. The turntable’s internal electronics handle the required phono amplification and equalization before transmitting the audio.
However, the answer depends on the turntable’s specific design and connection options. If you also want a wired connection, check whether its RCA output is PHONO or LINE level.
Is a more expensive phono preamp worth it?
It depends on your cartridge and audio system.
A more advanced model can provide adjustable gain, cartridge loading, MC support and additional connectivity. These features are useful when matching a phono stage to a particular cartridge.
If you’re using a basic MM cartridge with a straightforward setup, an affordable preamp may already provide everything you need.
What is the difference between MM and MC cartridges?
Moving-magnet (MM) cartridges use a moving magnet to generate the audio signal, while moving-coil (MC) cartridges use moving coils.
MM cartridges are common in entry-level and mid-range turntables. MC cartridges often have lower output and can require more gain from the phono preamp.
Learn more in our guide to moving-magnet vs. moving-coil cartridges.
What to Check Before You Buy
Before choosing a phono preamp, make sure it matches your turntable, cartridge and amplifier.
Cartridge compatibility: Confirm whether your cartridge is MM or MC. An MM-only model will not be suitable for a low-output MC cartridge.
Gain settings: Check the preamp’s gain against the cartridge’s output voltage. Adjustable gain is useful when working with different cartridges.
Input loading: Resistance and capacitance settings can affect cartridge response. Follow the cartridge manufacturer’s recommended loading.
Inputs and outputs: Check whether the preamp uses RCA connections, balanced outputs or additional line inputs. Make sure they match your equipment.
Built-in preamp: Check whether your turntable or amplifier already includes a phono stage. You don’t want to purchase a second one unnecessarily.