The phono stage is a frequently over-looked component in vinyl hi-fi systems. Often bought without fully understanding what they're there for, phono pre-amplifiers actually provide a vitally important function which can make or break the overall audio performance that's delivered from your turntable.
Phono stages provide two core functions. First, they amplify the very quiet electrical signal generated by the cartridge on your turntable. When we play a record, the signal created by a cartridge/turntable may only be as loud as 5 or 6mV (millivolts), but your amplifier needs a signal nearer to 2V to actually power your speakers - that's nearly 300 times louder than what the turntable outputs! Second, the phono stage applies an RIAA equalization curve (though other curves are available on different phono stages), which makes sure the final audio you hear is accurate and full of detail (click here to learn more about RIAA).
In order to play vinyl through your audio system you will always need a phono stage. However, there are a variety of turntables, powered speakers and amplifiers that already have phono stages built in. We always recommend using external phono stages due to their increased flexibility, but if you choose to use a built-in device, be sure to never use two phono stages in a system. For example, if your turntable has a built-in phono stage and you connect it to the phono stage on an amplifier, you will double amplify the signal, resulting in a loud, distorted noise that could damage your hi-fi system.
There are three key considerations to make when purchasing a phono stage. How much should I pay, what's the type of sound I want and do I need something future-proof? In order to answer the sound question, we recommend auditioning or reading reviews whenever you can before making a purchase. So far as "future-proofing" is concerned, a good phono stage can help you step-up to a better turntable in the future - so it's always worth thinking about what you're going to do next, before you buy. Then how much you should pay is tricky, but as a general guide we recommend spending anything up-to 50% the value of your turntable/cartridge on a phono stage.
Regardless of what your taste, budget or requirements are, if you're in the market for anything above a plug-and-play solution, we recommend you ask these questions before making your next purchase...
To help you answer these questions, we've put this handy table together on our current range (correct as of January 2023).
Phono Box Model | Cartridge Types | Adjustments Available | Balanced Input | Output Options | Special Feature |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Phono Box MM | MM only | None | - | RCA | Affordable plug-and-play device in a sturdy metal case |
Phono Box | MM and MC | None | - | RCA | Iconic model with great sound |
Phono Box S2 | MM and MC | Gain / Capacitance / Impedance | - | RCA | Extensive adjustability for a low price |
Phono Box S2 Ultra | MM and MC | Gain / Capacitance / Impedance | - | RCA | Fully discrete electrical layout and premium components for smooth sound |
Phono Box S3 B | MM and MC | Gain / Capacitance / Impedance | Yes - MiniXLR | RCA | The most affordable True Balanced option in the range |
Tube Box S2 | MM and MC | Gain / Capacitance / Impedance | - | RCA | Tube output stage for added valve "warmth" |
Phono Box DS2 | MM and MC | Gain / Capacitance / Impedance | - | RCA | Improved internal components and bigger casework |
Phono Box DS3 B | MM and MC | Gain / Capacitance / Impedance | Yes - MiniXLR / XLR | RCA / XLR | Take a step-up with your balanced connectivity. Fully adjustable impedance dial for MC cartridges |
Tube Box DS2 | MM and MC | Gain / Capacitance / Impedance | - | 2 x RCA | Tube output stage for added valve warmth and dual inputs/outputs for multi-tonearm turntables. Fully adjustable impedance dial for MC cartridges |
Phono Box RS | MM and MC | Gain / Capacitance / Impedance / EQ Curve | Yes - XLR | RCA / XLR | Fully-balanced for premium turntables and extensive settings including selectable DECCA curve. Fully adjustable impedance dial for MC cartridges |
Phono Box RS2 | MM and MC | Gain / Capacitance / Impedance / EQ Curve | Yes - XLR | RCA / XLR | Fully-balanced for premium turntables and extensive settings including selectable DECCA curve and channel balance control. Fully adjustable impedance dial for MC cartridges |