5 best phono stages

The best model for beginners in the world of vinyl, the most simple and compact in the ranking. Its weight is about 180 g, the same weight as a standard record. With small dimensions, the gain is decent - 35 dB. The phono stage is very quiet thanks to the low-noise operational amplifier - CoolAudio V4580M. Able to work with MM and MC heads, and in both cases, when amplifying and converting the signal, it guarantees accurate RIAA correction.

The preamplifier has an RCA input for vinyl and two types of output jacks - RCA and a full-size 6.3 mm TRS jack. This simplifies connection to professional equipment and makes it the most sought-after model for adapting vintage turntables to modern digital mixing systems. Definitely the best preamp option, if the budget is up to $50, it is he who is first advised in the reviews. They share in the comments - it's amazing that at such a price, the model allows you to enjoy all the advantages of sound from vinyl: detail, purity and natural musical presentation.

The classic MM phono stage of the middle class will surprise you with its purity and dynamism of sound.Of course, refined listeners may miss the finest details that, say, Leema Elements tube models can reproduce, but the price of Rega Fono Mini is 5 times lower. The preamplifier has a very interesting function - digitization of records. It is enough to connect via USB to a computer and you can record your entire vinyl collection in a digital archive. The corresponding knob will help you choose the optimal recording level.

The phono stage has a unique handwriting in music reproduction. In the reviews, the sound is described as follows: rich and dense, and in depth it is not inferior to higher-class models, someone even compares the Rega Fono Mini with tube devices. Bass sounds the best - voluminous and biting. But the high ones are a bit harsh. Another point is the simplification of the sound if the number of sounding instruments increases. Although when combining a preamplifier with inexpensive players, these nuances will not fall out of the overall sound picture.

What you don't expect to see in the LX2-LPS class is adjustable resistance. Musical Fidelity decided to surprise and add this feature. So, we don’t even have a switch, but two complete sets of plugs that need to be installed manually. And although even without additional settings, the model guarantees high-quality work, the presence of this “bun” turns the device into something more than a “turn on and forget” device. Almost no model in this price segment will allow you to play with resistance and choose the most comfortable sound.

Those who had the opportunity to compare the device by ear with other phono stages note the full-bloodedness and openness of sound characteristic of the manufacturer. The reproduction of mid frequencies is without exaggeration the best in comparison: they turn out to be amazingly detailed and accurate, soft piano parts and juicy synths sound equally delicious. Spaciousness of the sound, together with precise tonal balance, protects the music from excessive restraint and the effect of compression.

The incredibly soft and warm sound of tube preamps is not to be confused with digital ones. Pro-Ject Tube Box S2 is no exception. The model provides a smooth sound without distortion in a wide range. The phono stage works on two ECC83 tubes that protrude halfway from the body. This is thought out for correct heat dissipation. The highlight of the model is a special “double bottom” design, which provides better separation of stereo channels and creates a detailed and wide sound stage. And the Subsonic low-pass filter will allow compositions to open up in a more balanced way.

Tube models are suitable for true vinyl connoisseurs who are willing to pay a little more for sound quality. There are many stories in the reviews about unsuccessful attempts to intermarry the preamplifier with turntables of the middle class and below. As a result of experiments, the sound did not live up to expectations. However, it is worth connecting a phono stage to a higher level technique, as it manifests itself to the fullest, striking with the quality of the reproduced audio picture.

The JC 3 phono stage is Parasound's successful attempt to expand its audience by lowering its price. In fact, this is the younger brother of Halo JC3 + - one of the most famous representatives in the world of audio equipment. The JC3 costs 2 times cheaper than the eminent relative, but inherited the main advantages. The base of the two models is almost identical: three gains and variable impedance for MC heads. Among the family differences are gold-plated RCA jacks, Vishay / Dale resistors in audio circuits, Neutrik XLR output connectors.

A very valuable feature for owners of older monophonic recordings is the mono/stereo switch. With it, a detailed sound picture of even the most rare records opens up for the listener. But the main difference is that the more budgetary model is more of a classic stereo than a double mono. The device has a switch from MM-type head to MC. The reviews especially praise playback from the MS - this model has no equal. By fine-tuning the level and impedance of the signal, even with the lowest level of the output signal, excellent sound is obtained.