Best Phono Preamps
Top phono preamps ranked by transparent trust scores.
8 products ranked
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Top Pick
9.4
Excellent
Schiit Mani 2
Ranked #1 based on expert reviews, user sentiment, and value analysis.
#1
9.4
Excellent
Consensus
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Ranked #1 based on expert reviews, user sentiment, and value analysis.
Pros
- Supports MM and MC cartridges
- Four gain settings
- Passive RIAA for accuracy
Cons
- DIP switches require a tool to adjust
- No subsonic filter
Don't buy this if…
- The DIP switches on the bottom require removing the unit from your rack and using a pointed tool to change settings.
#2
9.2
Excellent
Consensus
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Ranked #2 based on expert reviews, user sentiment, and value analysis.
Pros
- Balanced XLR outputs
- Adjustable impedance loading
- Linear power supply
Cons
- Premium price point
- Balanced output requires XLR cables
Don't buy this if…
- Impedance loading adjustments require careful matching to your specific cartridge or the sound may be thin or muddy.
#3
9.0
Excellent
Consensus
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Ranked #3 based on expert reviews, user sentiment, and value analysis.
Pros
- Four EQ curve options for vintage records
- Built-in subsonic filter
- MM and MC support
Cons
- Multiple curves can confuse beginners
- External power supply
Don't buy this if…
- Using the wrong EQ curve for your record pressing era will result in dramatically incorrect tonal balance.
#4
8.7
Excellent
Consensus
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Ranked #4 based on expert reviews, user sentiment, and value analysis.
Pros
- Simple plug-and-play setup
- Gold-plated RCA connectors
- Compact metal enclosure
Cons
- Moving magnet only
- No adjustable gain
Don't buy this if…
- This preamp only supports MM cartridges so verify your turntable cartridge type before purchasing.
#5
8.5
Excellent
Consensus
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Ranked #5 based on expert reviews, user sentiment, and value analysis.
Pros
- Clean transparent sound
- External linear power supply
- Made in USA
Cons
- MM cartridges only
- No gain adjustment
Don't buy this if…
- The external power supply uses a barrel connector that can work loose over time so secure the cable routing.
#6
8.3
Good
Consensus
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Ranked #6 based on expert reviews, user sentiment, and value analysis.
Pros
- Optional battery power for zero noise
- Hand-assembled quality
- Precision RIAA circuit
Cons
- MM only at this price
- Basic enclosure design
Don't buy this if…
- Battery operation requires regular battery replacement or rechargeable batteries as there is no low-battery indicator.
#7
8.1
Good
Consensus
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Ranked #7 based on expert reviews, user sentiment, and value analysis.
Pros
- USB output for vinyl digitizing
- Very affordable
- Switchable line/phono modes
Cons
- Higher noise floor than competitors
- Plastic build quality
Don't buy this if…
- The USB output is limited to 16-bit 48kHz which may not satisfy audiophiles seeking high-resolution digital transfers.
#8
7.9
Good
Consensus
Compare
Ranked #8 based on expert reviews, user sentiment, and value analysis.
Pros
- Excellent dynamic range
- Supports both MM and MC
- Audiophile-grade components
Cons
- Higher price bracket
- No subsonic filter
Don't buy this if…
- MC cartridge loading must be correctly set for your specific cartridge model or significant performance will be left on the table.
Quick Comparison
How We Rank
Composite trust score from expert reviews, user sentiment, complaint analysis, and value assessment.
Trust Score
Weighted composite of all factor scores
Expert Score
Aggregated expert review ratings
User Sentiment
Community votes and review analysis
Value Score
Price-to-performance ratio
Freshness
Recency of reviews and data
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