Phono Stage: A Complete Buyer's Guide

Choosing a phono stage comes down to matching the unit to your cartridge type, your budget and the quality of the rest of your system. A few clear decisions lead quickly to the right choice. This guide covers the buying considerations in order of importance.

First: Confirm Cartridge Compatibility

The most important buying decision is whether you need an MM or MC input. Moving magnet cartridges (the most common type in entry-level and mid-range setups) need an MM input. Moving coil cartridges need a dedicated phono stage with an MC input or a step-up transformer. Before looking at any product, check your cartridge's output voltage. Above 1mV means MM; below 1mV means MC. If you have both cartridges or plan to upgrade, a unit that provides both MM and MC inputs gives you flexibility. Many mid-range units include both.

Phono Stage Budget Tiers

Entry-level standalone units (£30 to £80) improve on most built-in amplifier circuits. They are the right choice for an entry-level turntable and cartridge where the system doesn't warrant higher investment. Mid-range units (£80 to £300) offer better noise floors, more accurate RIAA equalisation and more input loading flexibility. At this level, a phono stage can be a meaningful system upgrade even on a budget turntable. High-end units (above £300) are relevant when the cartridge and turntable justify the expenditure — there is little point spending £500 on an electronics component when the cartridge is a £40 model.

Input Loading: Why It Matters for MC Cartridges

Moving coil cartridges are sensitive to input impedance. The standard 47k ohm load that suits MM cartridges is often too high for MC types, producing excessive brightness and ringing. Many MC phono stages allow the input impedance to be adjusted — typically through DIP switches or internal jumpers — to match the cartridge's specifications. If you are using an MC cartridge, check that the unit you are considering allows impedance adjustment. The cartridge manufacturer's documentation will specify the recommended loading.

Tube vs Solid State

Tube phono stages add warmth and a particular harmonic character that some listeners prefer for vinyl. They are more expensive to manufacture, require tube replacement over time, and are more sensitive to vibration. Solid-state designs are more consistent, more reliable and typically offer better measured noise performance. For most listeners, a well-designed solid-state unit is the more practical choice. For a starting point for new listeners, see our beginners' guide.

Frequently Asked Questions