Best selling Phono preamps
Here's a ranking of the best products in this category. To give you a quick overview, we've also added some key information about the products.
1. Pro-Ject Phono Box E
The Phono Box E allows for the connection of MM cartridges and offers audiophile music enjoyment. A modern circuit design based on SMD technology minimizes noise and distortion. The integrated shielding and the external power supply leave little room for external interference. Due to its compact dimensions, the Phono Box E can be placed close to the turntable. Both input and output jacks are gold-plated to prevent corrosion. The Phono Box E is connected to a line input (AUX, etc.) of the amplifier.
2. Pro-Ject Phono Box S2 Ultra
The Phono Box S is extremely flexible. Each cartridge performs best in the optimal electrical environment. The phono preamplifier can be finely adjusted to the requirements of the cartridge in terms of termination capacitance, termination resistance, and gain. Unusually for this price range, the device offers a variety of adjustment options for the termination capacitance of MM, Moving Iron, and High-Output MC cartridges, as well as the termination resistance for Low-Output MC cartridges. The gain can be set in four stages and is not tied to a specific operating mode. All settings can be used for both MM and MC modes.
The Pro-Ject Phono Box S2 Ultra is a phono preamplifier based on the Pro-Ject Phono Box S2, featuring a discrete circuit design in the signal path. Carefully selected components, such as polystyrene capacitors, ensure the finest sound quality.
For MM, MI, and MC cartridges
- Gain adjustable in four stages
- Resistance and capacitance adjustable
- Switchable subsonic filter
- Optional battery power supply
- External power supply reduces interference
Technical details:
- No ICs in the signal path
- Termination resistance: continuously adjustable 10 Ohm, 100 Ohm, and 1 kOhm (Low-Output MC cartridges)
- Termination capacitances/resistance: 100 pF, 200 pF, 320 pF, and 420 pF/47 kOhm (High-Output MC, Moving Iron, and MM cartridges)
- Gain: 40 dB, 43 dB, 60 dB, and 63 dB
- Switchable subsonic filter
- External power supply (included)
Upgrade option:
- Pro-Ject Accu Box S2 battery power supply for improved sound quality.
Housing data:
- Dimensions W x H x D (D with sockets): 103 x 37 x 104 (115) mm
- Weight: 340 g without power supply.
3. SpeaKa Professional Phono preamplifier
The stereo preamplifier for turntables enables the connection of a turntable to audio devices without a phono input. It amplifies and equalises record player output signals. Advantage The unit can be operated with a 9V block battery instead of the mains adapter. Dreaded hum loops are effectively prevented with battery power supply.
4. Cambridge Audio Solo
No matter if you've dug out your old record collection or want to experience the vinyl renaissance, you now have a unique musical experience awaiting you as soon as the needle touches your favorite album. The Solo Phono Preamp preserves the unique warmth of vinyl sound through a state-of-the-art switching power supply and a surface-mounted circuit board layout that reduces unwanted noise.
Enjoy your vinyl collection to the fullest with the Moving Magnet Phono Stage, the Solo Phono Preamp.
5. Pro-Ject Tube Box DS2
This high-precision tube preamp benefits from Dr. Sykora's refined circuit topology and includes only optimal components. The preamp is suitable for both MM and MC cartridges. As a special feature, it offers not only the option to connect two turntables and two line outputs but also a continuously adjustable input impedance for low-output MC cartridges, which can even be adjusted during playback. For MM cartridges, there is the possibility to individually change the input capacitance. A switchable subsonic filter keeps low-frequency noise below 20 Hz away from amplifiers and speakers. All used components, such as tubes and polypropylene capacitors, are selected with audiophile considerations in mind, allowing for stunning sound experiences. A perfect upgrade for ambitious vinyl lovers.
6. Pro-Ject Phono Box RS2
The Pro-Ject Phono Box RS2 is a highly advanced phono preamplifier designed specifically for audiophile demands. With its elegant silver casing, the device seamlessly integrates into any audio system and elevates sound reproduction quality to a new level. Developed by Pro-Ject Audio Systems, a pioneer in audiophile technology, the Phono Box RS2 offers innovative solutions for vinyl enthusiasts. It allows for a perfect connection to existing audio components via RCA inputs and provides continuous adjustment for a personalized listening experience. Whether as an entry point into the world of vinyl amplification or as a solution for discerning hi-fi enthusiasts, this preamplifier impresses with its expandable structure and optional battery power supply, which minimizes interference from the power grid.
- High-quality phono preamplifier for an uncompromising sound experience
- Supports both MM and MC cartridges
- Subsonic switch for effective filtering of unwanted frequencies
- Infinite customization options for personal preferences
- Battery operation for stable power supply without grid interference.
7. Pro-Ject Pre Box S2 Digital Edition 2023
The Pre Box S2 Digital Edition 23 takes Pro-Ject's preamplifiers into a new era thanks to the dual-mono design with the highest quality ESS Sabre D/A converters. This allows you to enjoy first-class quality that can resolve up to 32-bit/768 kHz in PCM encoding. The Pre Box S2 Digital Edition 23 has an improved power management design compared to the previous model. With up to seven digital filters, you can customise the sound to your liking and ensure you get the soundscape that suits you every time. The device also works with a remote control and can be used to control the playback programmes on your computer. You can change tracks or pause them directly from the Pre Box.
8. Cambridge Audio Duo
The duo seems to exude a touch of performance. It is a solid, lightweight piece of technology that simply looks great. A rich and rewarding listening experience that I can't tear myself away from. There are only a few other options that can match this kind of listening experience, which, to put it mildly, is quite astonishing.
9. iFi Audio ZEN Stream
Beneath the elegant exterior of the ZEN Stream lies a top-class streamer. It has one purpose: to send music from the internet to your DAC without any loss of quality. The ZEN Stream is a compact, straightforward device that enhances your existing audio system with streaming capabilities. It acts as a bridge between the network and the audio system. The ZEN Stream integrates into the network via WiFi or Ethernet and transmits data to an external DAC or amplifier/speaker with a digital input through the USB or S/PDIF output. The ZEN Stream delivers true Hi-Res performance, supporting PCM up to 32 Bit/384 kHz and DSD256 over WiFi and LAN. Additionally, you can use your smartphone as a remote control for the ZEN Stream with a suitable app, if desired.
From the device drivers to the kernel (the core of the operating system) and the shell (the interface to the kernel), all the way to the applications and user interface – everything is optimized for smooth operation and excellent sound performance. A brilliant aspect of the ZEN Stream design is the ability to choose between five exclusive modes – customized settings for specific operating modes to achieve optimal performance. All other programs are shut down to minimize software jitter – an often-overlooked aspect that negatively impacts audio playback quality. Thus, the ZEN Stream is not only a versatile device but also a master in every area.
10. ART DjPre II
The DJ Pre II (formerly named the "Phono MicroPRE") acts as an interface between your turntable and your audio recording / playback system. The analog input capacitance can be switched between 100pF and 200pF to optimize your phono cartridge response. A switchable low cut filter removes turntable rumble while leaving the audio pristine. The front gain trim control and signal/clip LED allow you to optimize the preamp's gain for a wide range of input sources. The built-in low noise phono preamp circuitry is highly accurate and precisely conforms to the RIAA standard. The line output jacks are low impedance and can be used with any sound card.
Housed in an all aluminum black anodized case, the DJ Pre II can be powered by a wide variety of external supplies. If you need to amplify and EQ your vinyl records to interface with your audio workstation, sound card, home stereo system or main monitor system, the DJ Pre II gives you flawless audio reproduction in a rugged and reliable package.
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