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Gear / Technical Help => Playback Forum => Topic started by: shane on November 23, 2005, 10:09:19 PM

Title: phono input
Post by: shane on November 23, 2005, 10:09:19 PM

This may seem like a pretty basic question but..............Do I have to have a dedicated phono input to hook up a turn table to my amp?  Or can I just hook it up to any input and ground it?  Thanks. 

Shane

Title: Re: phono input
Post by: dnsacks on November 24, 2005, 10:22:04 AM

you need a dedicated phono input -- a normal turntable's output is quite different from a line level output

Title: Re: phono input
Post by: JasonR on November 24, 2005, 10:57:16 AM

If you don't have a phono input on your receiver/preamp, you can add an outboard phono preamp which will bring the phono level up to line level.  In fact, if you have a phono input, it just means that you've already got an integrated phono preamp.  If not, you need an outboard one.  They range from $40 to $4,000.  ;)  Talk to the folks at needledoctor.com - they're very helpful and sell several nice ones under$100.  No relation - just a satisfied customer.

BTW - note that there are MM and MC phono preamps.  MM (Moving Magnet) or MC (Moving Coil) refers to the type of cartridge on your 'table.  The difference is mainly that an MC cartridge typically has a much lower output and needs to be amplified more.  Some MCs like my Sumiko Blue Point Special put out a high output more like an MM, so its best to pair these things with some amount of forethought.

- Jason

Title: Re: phono input
Post by: Krispy D on November 24, 2005, 11:13:08 AM

check the spec on your turntable.  a lot of entry (cheap) level to mid level turntables have a built in switchable Preamp.  just turn it on and use any available input on your receiver.

Title: Re: phono input
Post by: shane on November 24, 2005, 11:54:23 AM

Thanks guys.  I don't have a turntable yet but I might be picking one up soon.  I just want to be sure what I need before I jump in. 

Shane

Title: Re: phono input
Post by: zowie on November 26, 2005, 07:37:10 PM

The turntables w/ built-in phono preamp are crap, and not even priced as cheaply as they ought to be in some cases.  You need a phono input or an external phono pre.