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Vinyl collecting is back with more and more bands putting their music out on vinyls.
And why not?
The richer, highly realistic sounds that you simply can’t get on a downloaded album or bought CD. Vinyls offer raw and real music that once you listened to your favorite album on vinyl, there is definitely no going back.
However, if you think your newly bought turntable isn’t making the sound you expected, then you can turn up the sound quality with a phono preamp. And you don’t have to break the bank to get a quality phono preamp.
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Here are some of the best phono preamp under 200 that will give you amazing rich sounds out of your vinyl records.
Phono Preamp Under 200 Comparison Table
| Product Image | Product Name | Brand | Value | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 |
U-Turn Audio Pluto | U-Turn Audio | $$$ | |
 |
Pro-Ject Phono Box | Pro-Ject | $$$ | |
 |
Art USB Phono Plus | Art | $$$ |
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3 Best Phono Preamp Under $200
If you’re looking to buy a turntable preamplifier with cheap price, then here are some of the best phono preamps for turntable of 2020.
U-Turn Audio Pluto
An elegantly designed solid-state phono preamp, the Pluto from U-Turn Audio is constructed from stainless steel that helps prevent interference. Aesthetic-wise, the Pluto is top-of-the-line with a cost that is highly affordable.
Its stage is compatible with MM (moveable magnet) cartridges and features RCA ports with RIAA equalization, providing you the classic vinyl sound. The high-quality circuitry and solid structure adds a correct level to the unit and improve the signal of any turntable magnetic cartridge.
Meanwhile, the subsonic filter helps remove low-frequency noise. Both WIMA film capacitors and precision resistors help deliver distortion-free and detailed sound.
- Elegant layout circuitry
- High-quality components
- Phono for all MM cartridges
- WIMA video condensers and accurate resistors
- Remove distortions
- 3-year warranty
- The spectrum of dynamics can be improved.
Pro-Ject Phono Box
A highly compact phono preamp, the Pro-Ject Phono Box is only slightly larger than your typical set of play cards. But, don’t be fooled by its small size, this phono preamp offers powerful functionality in increasing your vinyls sound.
This solid-state phono preamp features the gold-plated stereo RCA ports and a DC power supply. It is housed in a sturdy and compact black metal case which helps reduce electronic interference and vibrations.
The preamp utilizes high-quality circuits that are compatible with both MM and MC cartridges in order to minimize distortions. You also get a convenient USB connection for the digitization of superior quality.
- High-quality build
- Straightforward setup
- The USB connection is a nice bonus
- Outstanding sound quality
- Compact
- The dial on the front is bulgy
- Price is expensive
Art USB Phono Plus
One of the more popular phono preamp on Amazon, the Art USB Phono Plus boasts over 200 hundred reviews with a 4.2-star rating on Amazon. Unlike the previous phono preamps, this one features a unique and interesting design.
It features several buttons on the front panel, which can be quite complicated for the beginners. The low-noise RIAA phono preamp circuit features a low cut filter that allows you to eliminate the rumbling sounds of low frequency. The gain control at the front and Signal LED allows for easy optimization of a broad range of analog input resources.
However, what makes this phono preamp a favorite is its capability to transfer your vinyl records to your laptop ad computer. Meanwhile, the USB monitor/headphone also provides zero-latency monitoring of your input source for an easy cueing.
Housed in an aluminum black anodized case, this device can be powered directly via USB port or an external power supply.
- Can be connected to several devices
- Easy to install
- Good build quality
- Digitization of vinyl records
- Affordable
- Design stands out
- Complicated controls
Buying Guide: What To Consider When Looking For The Best Phono Preamp Under 200?
Well-Designed Circuitry
The circuitry is a crucial factor you need to consider as it plays a huge role in the quality and accuracy of your sounds. It is also a great addition if the preamp features an efficient separation since this will result in a better sound and fewer distortions.
High-Quality Jacks
Another feature you need to take a look at is the jacks. The jacks ill provide you a rough idea of the types of audio devices that the preamp can accommodate along with the basic features it has.
For instance, a phono preamp with USB slots allows you to convert your analog records to digital files.
Low Vibrations
Another thing that can ruin the sound quality is vibrations. Thus, you might want to look for phono preamps with low-vibrations features, particularly if it is going to be placed near your record player or turntable.
Durable Build
Aside from reducing vibrations and distortions, durable construction with high-quality components and casing can ensure that that you can listen on quality record sounds for hours.
Extra Features
Finally, you need to look for a phono preamp with other extra features including power-off, audio conversion, switchable modes and so much more.
Frequently Asked Questions about Phono Preamp
Q: Does a turntable needs a phono preamp?
A: Most modern turntables and record players, as well as a few older models, already have a built-in phono preamp. As a matter of fact, even some speakers feature a phono preamp.
If you ever need one, then just ensure that you have the necessary cables to connect your turntable to your phono preamp and to connect the preamp to the speakers.
Q: Why do I need a phono preamp for my turntable?
A: If you are building a record player piece by piece, then you will have complete control over every component and element. And a phono preamp will give you the ability to adjust your audio and sound which is a great feature for most audiophiles.
Q: Des a phono preamp make a difference?
A: Absolutely! Without a phono preamp, the sound of your vinyl records will be distorted and weak. With preamp acting as an intermediary between audio devices, you can ensure that the signals are properly translated and enjoy only the best sound quality possible.
Conclusion
So, there you have it!
We hope that you have a general on the best phono preamp under 200. All 3 of the phono preamp mentioned above are rather easy to use and offers impressive features including low vibration, for the price.
We hope you find the best phono preamp for you so you can listen to your favorite tunes of only the highest sound quality.