If your receiver or amplifier has no input labeled PHONO, you can still connect a turntable without replacing your existing equipment. The usual solution is a standalone phono preamp connected between the turntable and the receiver.
A phono preamp performs two essential jobs: it amplifies the very low-level signal produced by a turntable cartridge and applies the RIAA equalization needed for records to sound as intended.
Before buying anything, check whether your turntable already has a built-in phono preamp. If it does, you may be able to connect it directly to your receiver.
1. Check Whether Your Turntable Has a Built-In Phono Preamp
Some turntables include a built-in phono preamp, while others require an external one.
Look for a switch on the back or underside of your turntable labeled PHONO / LINE or PREAMP ON / OFF. You can also check the manufacturer’s specifications or user manual.
- Built-in preamp: Set the switch to LINE or ON to send a standard line-level signal to your receiver.
- No built-in preamp: You will need a separate phono preamp unless another component in your system provides one.
If your turntable has a built-in preamp, you generally do not need to purchase another one just because your receiver lacks a PHONO input.
2. Check Your Receiver’s Available Inputs
Look at the back of your receiver or amplifier and identify its audio inputs.
Common line-level inputs include:
- AUX
- CD
- TAPE
- LINE
- AUDIO IN
These inputs can accept a signal from a phono preamp. They cannot normally accept the raw signal directly from a turntable cartridge.
If your receiver has a dedicated PHONO input, you can usually connect a turntable directly to it, provided the input is compatible with your cartridge.
If there is no PHONO input, continue to the next step.
3. Add an External Phono Preamp
A standalone phono preamp sits between your turntable and receiver. It converts the cartridge’s phono-level signal into a line-level signal that standard amplifier inputs can handle.
There are options at different price points, from basic moving-magnet preamps to more adjustable models supporting both moving-magnet (MM) and moving-coil (MC) cartridges.
For a typical turntable with an MM cartridge, a basic MM-compatible preamp is often sufficient. More advanced features are useful when your cartridge or system requires them.
If you are comparing models, see our guide to the best phono preamps.
How to connect the external preamp
Follow this signal path:
Turntable → Phono preamp → Receiver’s AUX, CD or TAPE input
- Connect the turntable’s RCA output cables to the phono preamp’s RCA inputs.
- If your turntable has a separate ground wire, connect it to the preamp’s grounding terminal if provided.
- Connect the preamp’s RCA outputs to an available line input on your receiver.
- Select the corresponding input on your receiver.
- Turn on your system and play a record at a low volume initially.
The phono preamp should now handle the amplification and RIAA equalization before the signal reaches your receiver.
4. When a Built-In Turntable Preamp Is Enough
If your turntable already includes a phono preamp, the setup is simpler.
Set its output switch to LINE or turn the built-in preamp ON, then connect the RCA cables directly to an available line input on your receiver.
You do not need an additional phono preamp.
Avoid running two phono preamps in series. For example, do not send a turntable’s LINE output into an external phono preamp. This can cause excessive gain and incorrect equalization, resulting in distorted sound.
If your receiver has a PHONO input and you want to use that instead, switch the turntable’s built-in preamp OFF or select PHONO output, if your model offers that option.
5. Common Connection Problems
If your turntable is connected but the sound is not right, check the following:
| Problem | What to check |
|---|---|
| Very quiet sound | Confirm that a phono preamp is being used and powered, if required. |
| Distorted or overly loud sound | Check that you are not using two phono preamps in series. |
| Humming or buzzing | Check RCA connections and connect the ground wire if your equipment provides a grounding terminal. |
| Only one speaker works | Check both RCA plugs and the receiver’s input connections. |
| No sound | Confirm the receiver is set to the correct input and check the preamp’s power and connections. |
For more help identifying unwanted noise, see our guide to turntable hum and noise troubleshooting.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I need a phono preamp?
You need a phono preamp if your turntable does not have a built-in preamp enabled and your receiver does not have a compatible PHONO input. In that situation, an external phono preamp is the usual solution.
Can I connect a turntable directly to AUX?
Yes, but only if the turntable has a built-in phono preamp switched on. Otherwise, the cartridge’s output is too low and has not received the required RIAA equalization.
Can I use any phono preamp with any turntable?
Not necessarily. Most standard turntables use moving-magnet (MM) cartridges, so an MM-compatible preamp will usually work.
Moving-coil cartridges require closer attention: a low-output MC cartridge generally needs an MC-compatible preamp, while some high-output MC cartridges can work with an MM input. Always check your cartridge’s specifications and the preamp’s supported input type.
Learn more about the differences in our guide to moving-magnet vs. moving-coil cartridges.
What happens if I connect a turntable without a phono preamp?
You will usually hear very quiet, thin-sounding audio. The signal has not received the amplification and RIAA equalization required for normal playback.
Do I need to replace my receiver if it has no PHONO input?
No. You can keep your existing receiver and add an external phono preamp. This is usually a much simpler solution than replacing otherwise working audio equipment.
Final Thoughts
A receiver without a PHONO input does not prevent you from enjoying vinyl records. Check whether your turntable has a built-in preamp first. If it does not, add a compatible external phono preamp between the turntable and your receiver.
Once connected correctly, you can use your existing AUX, CD or TAPE input and keep the rest of your audio system unchanged.