preamps
preamps
A preamp boosts the tiny signal from your turntable so it can be heard through speakers. Often called a phono preamp or turntable preamp, it’s the link that makes vinyl sound full, balanced, and powerful. The right preamp matches your system and brings out the best in your records.
Heads up: This guide contains affiliate links. If you buy through them, we may earn a small commission — at no extra cost to you.
The ART DJPREII is a small, inexpensive phono preamp designed for MM cartridges. It provides adjustable input gain, a low-cut (rumble) filter, and a simple LED level indicator. Reliable and flexible at an entry-level price point.
- MM-only support
- Switchable rumble filter
- Gain trim knob
- LED signal/clip indicator
The Schiit Mani 2 is a compact phono preamp designed to work with both MM and MC cartridges. It offers multiple gain options (33, 42, 48, 60 dB), very low noise performance, and a subsonic filter. Simple to use, quiet, and versatile enough to anchor a beginner or intermediate vinyl system.
- MM & MC compatible
- Gain options: 33/42/48/60 dB
- Subsonic filter
- Compact design
- Low noise floor
The Pro-Ject Phono Box DC offers impressive flexibility in a compact chassis. Compatible with both MM and MC cartridges, it provides clean, low-noise amplification that outperforms many built-in stages. Its simple design makes it an easy upgrade for turntable owners who want better sound without a large investment.
- Supports MM and MC cartridges
- Compact metal housing
- Low-noise circuitry
- External power supply
- Audiophile-grade components
Cambridge Audio's Alva Solo is a premium MM phono preamp offering low-noise circuitry, precise RIAA equalization, and a subsonic filter to protect speakers from rumble.
- Low-noise design
- Subsonic filter
- RIAA precision
- Compact chassis
The Fosi Audio Box X2 is a straightforward MM phono stage built for beginners. Compact and affordable, it offers basic amplification for moving magnet cartridges with minimal setup required. While it lacks advanced features, it's a simple way to bring life to your vinyl rig without breaking the bank.
- Designed for MM cartridges
- Compact design
- Plug-and-play operation
- RCA output
- Budget-friendly price
The U-Turn Pluto 2 is designed and built in the USA, offering audiophile-level performance for moving magnet cartridges. With precision components and a low-noise architecture, it delivers a clean, transparent signal. Its compact black aluminum enclosure matches U-Turn's minimalist aesthetic while upgrading sound quality significantly over built-in stages.
- Built for MM cartridges
- Low-noise architecture
- Black aluminum chassis
- Made in USA
- Audiophile-grade design
The iFi Zen Air Phono brings high-end design principles into an affordable package. Compatible with both MM and MC cartridges, it features precision op-amps, subsonic filter options, and iFi's signature sound engineering. It's an accessible gateway to audiophile-level phono stages without the high cost.
- Supports MM and MC cartridges
- Subsonic filter switch
- High-quality op-amps
- Compact Zen-series design
- Clean, dynamic sound
The Cambridge Audio Alva Duo is a refined phono preamp that caters to serious vinyl listeners. Supporting both MM and MC cartridges, it delivers a warm, detailed sound signature with a touch of smoothness. One of its standout features is the inclusion of a headphone output, allowing private listening without engaging a full speaker system. Its build quality is excellent, with a sleek chassis that fits well in modern systems. While larger and pricier than entry-level options, the Alva Duo is a versatile and reliable preamp that justifies its cost for users with higher-quality turntables and cartridges.
- MM/MC support
- Headphone output
- Subsonic filter