Are you trying to find 12ax7 phono preamps among various brands on the market but aren’t sure where to begin? To assist you in finding the right one, we’ve put together a list of the 7 best to help you pick the perfect one!
We investigated and evaluated a number of the top-selling 12ax7 phono preamps on the market in order to create our list of the best. Making a decision among the many options available is never simple. There are an infinite number of models available, each with a distinct price. And as you’ll find out, the best options aren’t usually the ones you imagine! This comparison is rich and relevant because of the numerous factors that were employed. You will find products featured in this ranking not only based on their pricing but also on their features and other customers reviews. To write this review, we completed 21 hours of research and did 33 12ax7 phono preamps tests. You won’t need to pick products at random any more. If you’re unsure of what to look for, browse our list and consult the buying guide!
An overview of our top picks
Table of contents
The best 12ax7 phono preamps you can buy today
- Features:Ability to use with CD/DVD player as a preamplifier and with MM cartridge turntable as a phono stage; Dual stereo outputs either 0.7V for a post stage amplifier or 0.25V for an integrated amplifier. It can be applied to bi-amp configuration;Employ DC filaments power supply to minimize humming noise;Adopts conventional active RIAA equalization in phono stage circuit;Power transformers manufactured with silicon steel sheet and high quality oxygen-free enameled copper wire;
- Utilizes the audiophile capacitors, such as Japanese Nippon Chemi-con capacitor filters, and high quality metal precision resistors dedicated for audio frequency; Applies special potentiometer as volume controller with low noise and durable; Beautiful aluminum heavy duty chassis, faceplate, and bezels. Technical Specifications: Phono Stage Suitability: MM cartridge phonograph; Tubes: Phono voltage amplifier: 12AX7 ¡Á 2; Voltage amplifier: 12AU7 ¡Á 2
- Output Voltages: Dual outputs of either 0.25V or 0.7V; CD/DVD: 0.25V (for integrated amplifier) RIAA: 0.7V (for power amplifier or second gear); Output Jacks: Two channels two group gold plated RCA jacks; Input Sensitivity: ¡Ü0.25V Preamplifier; ¡Ü5mV Phono stage; Input Jacks: Two Groups gold plated RCA jacks (CD/DVD and Phono);
- Distortion of Harmonic Wave: ¡Ü0.2% Preamplifier ¡Ü0.5% Phono stage; Frequency Response: 15Hz ~ 100KHz (-2.0dB); Signal-to-Noise Ratio: >75dB (CD/DVD input 0.5V 1KHz, output 0.7V); >65dB (Phono input 10mV 1KHz, output 0.7V); Input voltage: 110v-240v 50/60hz switch power supply
- Small Size Preamplifier -- This preamplifier is small enough to take on the go, and we've included 3PCS metal covers and 4PCS acrylic covers for you to choose from
- Active RIAA Circuits -- The amplifier uses a traditional active RIAA balanced phono circuit. The GND switch on the rear panel is set to ground by default. If there is a lot of noise, please try to set it to disconnect from the ground
- Better Sound Quality -- Compared to the T10, the T11 preamp has lower background noise at normal volume, and it sounds better
- Aluminum Alloy Case -- This preamp features an enhanced manufacturing process and features a aluminum alloy case for a more elegant and sophisticated look
- Various Replaceable Tubes -- Supporting 6N2 or 12AX7 tubes, which offers many replaceable tubes for you, such as 6H2,6H2n (For 6N2 type) and 12AX7B,6N4(9PIN),ECC83,5751 (For 12AX7 type)
- CONVERTS PHONO SIGNALS: A turntable preamp that converts phono signals to Line Level Signals. This state-of-the-art circuitry phono preamp can accommodate magnetic pickups with an input sensitivity of 3mV at 50K Ohms
- LOW NOISE OPERATION: Offers outstanding performance with it’s Low-Noise Audio Operational Amplifiers. The output is 2V max (P-P) at 10K Ohms. It’s better to position the preamp close to the source to reduce unwanted noise and interference
- CONNECTS TO TURNTABLES: Connect any turntable to modern sound equipment without specialized phono input for amplifying music. For the receiver, this can be connected to speakers, computers, laptops and more
- SIMPLE PLUG & PLAY: This mini preamp has stereo RCA inputs and stereo RCA outputs. Connect the turntable to the RCA inputs and ground. Then, connect the amplifier receiver to the RCA outputs
- Compact phono stage
- RIAA Equalization
- Output tube: 12AX7
- For Moving Magnetic and high output cartridges.
- Headphone Output with variable Level control
- PERFECT FOR PHONO/TURNTABLES: A turntable phono preamp that converts phono signals to Line Level Signals. This state-of-the-art circuitry phono preamp accommodates magnetic pickups with an input sensitivity of 3mV at 50K Ohms.
- LOW NOISE OPERATION: Offers outstanding value and performance with a Low-Noise Audio Operational Amplifiers. Integrated circuitry accommodates Magnetic Pickups. The output is 2V max (P-P) at 10K Ohms. PLEASE NOTE: The PR400 Preamp should be located close to the source (turntable) to reduce the possibility of unwanted noise and outside interference impacting the signal quality.
- SIMPLE PLUG & PLAY: The PR400 Mini Phono Preamp has gold plated stereo RCA inputs and stereo RCA outputs. Connect the turntable to the RCA inputs and attach the ground wire from your turntable to the grounding screw found on the preamp. Connect the amplifier or receiver to the RCA outputs of the preamp and you’re ready to spin up some vinyl. Your turntable should provide you with a ground wire if needed. Simple as that!
- POWER ADAPTER INCLUDED: 12VDC power adapter tested for quiet operation and soft Orange LED Power indicator on the PR400 preamp indicates the unit is powered on and ready to convert signal.
- GOLD PLATED RCA CONNECTORS: reduces the possibility of corrosion which could cause signal loss and nonlinearity in analog connections.
- Convert Phono Signal: The Turntable Preamp Converts phono signals to line level for better sounding audio and volume. Please make sure that the turntable you are connecting to use does not have a built-in preamp, if it does then using this phono preamp may result in bad noise.
- Low Noise Operation: The phono preamp offers outstanding performance with it’s Low-Noise Audio Operational Amplifiers.Make your vinyl records deliver sound exactly as it's read from your turntable's needle.
- RCA Input & RCA Output: This Mini Preamp has stereo RCA inputs and stereo RCA outputs. Connect the turntable to the RCA inputs and ground Then, connect the amplifier receiver to the RCA outputs(DC 12V Adapter is included).
- Simple Plug & Play:Connect any Phono Turntable Preamps to modern sound equipment without specialized phono input for amplifying music.Simply hook up the preamp to both turntable and audio device so you can enjoy vinyl in no time.
- 1 Year Warrranty: We guarantee this Electric Phono Preamplifier with both a 30-day, no hassle money back return policy and a 1 year manufacturer’s guarantee.
- This tube has a well balanced, colorful tone with strongly defined lows, mids and smooth highs
- It allows for more clean head-room than higher gain 12AX7s
- In overdrive, it is smooth and strong with well defined lows and mids
- When pushed into overdrive it offers clean distortion with well balanced lows and mids
- The JJ 12AX7 is well suited for all types of music and playing styles
- 【Headphone Jack Design】 PM5 phono preamp not only can be connected with speakers, but also can be connected with headphones. You can make a cup of coffee in your leisure time, read a book, wear your high-end headphones to quietly listen to every wonderful note.
- 【High Definition Audio】 Hi-fi speakers typically have less than 1% distortion, While MANAYO's PM5 turntable preamp has less than 0.01% total harmonic distortion to make your music even more fidelity.
- 【Cleaner Sound Quality】Amazing 78db signal-to-noise ratio which meets stereo standards. A good preamp amplifies the signal but not the noise，Background noise as quiet as a whisper makes your listening more comfortable and makes the music more cleaner.
- 【Adjustable Gain Range】Adjustable 6-36db gain with volume control can help you to set more precise loading and gain for your record player, so that each record player fully play the maximum potential.
- 【Small and Durable】Full metal case can effectively avoid shaking and interference, matte frosted gray design without excess decoration, simple and beautiful. Compact body which can be placed on a desk or any small place even close to your turntable to save more space.
- Convert Phone Signal: The turntable preamp converts can phono signals to line level for better sounding audio and volume. This state-of-the-art phono preamp can accommodate all magnetic pickups.
- Low Noise Operation: Offers outstanding performance with its Low-Noise Audio Operational Amplifiers. Make your vinyl records deliver sound exactly as it's read from your turntable's needle.
- RCA Input & RCA /TRS Output: This pre amplifiers for turntables has stereo RCA inputs , stereo RCA and TRS outputs. Connect the turntable to the RCA inputs and ground. Then, connect the amplifier receiver to the RCA/ TRS outputs. (DC 12V Adapter is included)
- Simple Plug & Play: Connect any Turntable to modern sound equipment without specialized phono input for amplifying music. Simply hook up the preamp to both turntable and audio device so you can enjoy vinyl in no time.
- 1 Year Warrranty: We guarantee this phonograph preamplifier with both a 30 day no hassle money back return policy and a 1 year manufacturer’s guarantee.
- COMPACT DESIGN fits on your bookshelf, desk, table so you can connect your turntable to your stereo receiver, speakers, or other audio device in any spot| Powered with 12 Volt DC Adapter (included)
- CONVERTS TURNTABLES PHONO SOUND QUALITY to line level for better sounding audio and volume | 1/4 HEADPHONE PORT lets you plug in and listen directly to music (no volume control)
- NECESSARY FOR CONNECTING TURNTABLE to newer speakers and receivers that do not have a phono input
- EASY TO SET UP OUT OF THE BOX for a simple hook up the preamp to both turntable and audio device so you can enjoy vinyl in no time | ULTRA-LOW NOISE OPERATION for better sound and less distortion
- RIAA EQUALIZATION boosts the volume signal for balanced, clear audio. CONNECT GND WIRE from turntable to preamp for best sounding audio | BACKED BY 3 YEAR MANUFACTURER'S WARRANTY
- CONVERTS PHONO SIGNALS: A turntable preamp that converts phono signals to Line Level Signals This state-of-the-art circuitry phono preamp can accommodate magnetic pickups with an input sensitivity of 3mV at 50K Ohms
- LOW NOISE OPERATION: Offers outstanding performance with it’s Low-Noise Audio Operational Amplifiers The output is 2V max (P-P) at 10K Ohms It’s better to position the preamp close to the source to reduce unwanted noise and interference
- CONNECTS TO TURNTABLES: Connect any turntable to modern sound equipment without specialized phono input for amplifying music For the receiver, this can be connected to speakers, computers, laptops and more
- SIMPLE PLUG & PLAY: This mini preamp has stereo RCA inputs and stereo RCA outputs Connect the turntable to the RCA inputs and ground Then, connect the amplifier receiver to the RCA outputs
- 1 YEAR WARRANTY: We guarantee this electric phono preamplifier with both a 30 day no hassle money back return policy and a 1 year manufacturer’s guarantee
- Tube assembly: 2x ECC83 (12AX7) Input impedance variable: 10-1000 Ohms, fix 47 kOhms
- Capacitance: 100 / 220 / 320 pF
- Gain: MM / MC 40 / 45 / 50 / 60 / 65 dB Output voltage: typically 500 mV/1kHz at 5mV/1kHz (at 40dB)
- Signal-to-noise ratio: 88dBA THD: < 0,04%
- RIAA curve accuracy: +/- 0,2dB/20Hz - 20kHz Subsonic filter: 20Hz @ 18dB/octave Input / Output: 2x R
- Upgrade your home audio system with the new-generation phono preamp, the Fosi Audio BOX X2 upgraded version.
- JAN 5654W Tube MM Phono Preamplifier: The BOX X4 phono preamp supports 3.5MM AUX and MM turntable input, converting phono signals to Line Level with low-frequency noise removal using high-quality components and low-noise integrated circuits. Protect your turntable with the grounding post feature.
- Tube Headphone Amplifier & Preamplifier: The Fosi Audio BOX X4's versatile design includes a 3.5MM AUX headphone and RCA output, offering a range of usability beyond expectations.
- Applicable Vacuum Tube Model: 6K4/6J1/6J4/GE5654/6AK5/66*In vacuum tubes, etc. Achieve a customized stereo system by replacing vacuum tubes. With different tubes producing unique sounds, it's a DIY opportunity worth exploring.
- What You Get: BOX X4 phono preamp, DC 12V power supply, user manual, our worry-free 24-month warranty, as well as friendly customer service.
- 12AX7 vacuum tube,
- U.S. Product Code: 12AX7
- European product Code: ECC83
- For guitar and Hi-Fi amplifiers,
- Can be used in any preamp or microphone application
- The Fosi Audio BOX X3 is a state-of-the-art phono preamp that uses Bluetooth 5.0 JAN 5654W tube technology for superior audio quality. This 2-in-1 preamp serves as both an MM turntable preamplifier and a Bluetooth 5.0 preamp, making it an essential component for the modern audiophile.
- The tube phono preamp improves the audio quality of your MM turntable by converting the phono signal to a more manageable line level, resulting in better sound and increased volume levels for your home audio system.
- Upgrade your home audio setup with the BOX X3 Bluetooth 5.0 tube preamplifier. With a 3.5mm line input, easily connect your latest devices for wireless Hi-Fi music streaming to powered speakers. Please note that an amplifier is required for passive speakers.
- Experience exceptional sound quality with the BOX X3 phono preamp's ultra-low noise performance. Featuring JAN 5654W vacuum tubes, this preamp produces a clean and warmer sound, allowing for perfect replication of your vinyl records' music. The built-in phono preamp circuitry is designed with high accuracy and conforms precisely to the RIAA standard, so you can enjoy a flawless listening experience every time.
- What You Get: BOX X3 mm phono preamp x1, JAN 5654W Vacuum tubes x2, Bluetooth Antenna x1, power adaptor x1, user manual x1, our worry-free 24-month warranty, as well as friendly customer service.[Please note that the BOX X3 preamplifier is a Bluetooth receiver only.]
- 【Tube Preamplifier for Turntable】: Converts phono signals to Line Level Signals with low-noise integrated circuits and high-quality components to remove low-frequency noise ensure clear sound quality. Designed with grounding post to protect your turntable.
- 【2 in 1 Turntable Preamp】: With MM signal input and 3.5mm AUX input(with priority). It can be used as an MM phono preamp and a tube preamp. Compatible with many audio devices such as MM record player, phone,TV, MP3 players, CD players, DAC, computers etc. to satisfy different demands.
- 【Gain Adjustable Design】: 39/42/45 dB gains levels switchable,different output gain is convenient to match different audio signal better, give a customizable control and great listening experience.
- 【Vacuum Tubes Replaceable Design】: Tubes can be replaced by 6K4 / 6J1 / 6J4 / GE5654 / 6AK5 / 6*1n and ect, you can DIY your stereo ststem with different tubes. sound warm, dynamic and sweet, bringing extremely high-quality listening experience.
- 【Internal Layout Details】: Reasonable current layout and concise wiring to ensure HIFI clear sound and low noise.Create cost-effective products with heart and bring the best user experience to customers.
- The BOX X1 phono preamp is an ultra-low noise device that converts phono signals into line-level signals for hassle-free playback. Its design includes a grounding post that effectively protects your turntable, ensuring optimal performance.
- This MM phono preamplifier is equipped with a DC12V high-quality power supply, providing reliable and stable performance. It features an output voltage level of 2V max (P-P) at 10K Ohms, with an SNR of 70dB and THD of ≤0.08% @ 1kHz and 3mV, along with a standard RIAA frequency response. Experience exceptional audio quality with this powerful and efficient preamp.
- The receiver for the turntable offers versatile connectivity options, including MM turntable input, RCA line output for powered speakers, and a 3.5MM headphone output. Connect a power amplifier using either the 3.5MM AUX or RCA output, and enjoy immersive audio with passive speakers. Additionally, you can enjoy high-quality music using headphones through the 3.5MM headphone output. Note that both the RCA line output and AUX headphone output can be used simultaneously for maximum flexibility.
- For vinyl record enthusiasts who want to integrate their collection into their home stereo system, this phonograph amplifier is the perfect solution. Its built-in low-noise phono preamp circuitry ensures accurate sound replication, conforming precisely to the RIAA standard. Encased in a durable black anodized steel case, it provides a reliable and rugged solution for flawless audio transmission.
- 【What You Get】: BOX X1 phono preamp x1, 12V power adapter x1, User manual x1, our worry-free 24-month warranty, as well as friendly customer service.
How to choose a good 12ax7 phono preamps
Does the idea of finding a fantastic 12ax7 phono preamps make you anxious? When it comes to purchasing this product, specifically when deciding which model to select, has your head been spinning between options? You are not alone if that is the case. We are aware of the pressure involved in the purchasing process!
Your presence here indicates that you are interested in 12ax7 phono preamps. Before choosing which product would be the best for your needs after being inundated with information, locate a reliable source with genuine selections. You can get that information from a variety of sources, including buying guides and rating websites, word-of-mouth recommendations from friends and family, online discussion forums where users can share their own experiences, product reviews that can be found all over the internet, and YouTube channels. You can only get the right product through exhaustive analysis. But you realize that’s not always simple. In order to ease your concerns, we have taken the time to develop a list of the top 12ax7 phono preamps products available right now. You might be wondering how we came up with the list. How was this buying guide developed?
First, we used our algorithms to gather as much reliable data as we could about these products. To verify all the data gathered, we used both artificial intelligence and a lot of algorithms.
Then, our experts used criteria that are recognized in the business to evaluate them according to their quality to price ratio, allowing us to choose the top 12ax7 phono preamps on the market right now!
The selection of the goods is not arbitrary. Before creating a list, we take into account a number of factors. Below are some of the criteria discussed:
Brand Value: What happens if you choose a dubious brand just because it appears to be a good deal? So the likelihood of receiving a product with a short shelf life increases. That is due to the fact that well-known brands have a reputation to uphold, while others do not. Top 12ax7 phono preamps brands strive to provide some distinctive traits that set them apart from the competition. So, hopefully one or more of the items on our list will be perfect for you.
Features: Useful features are all you need, not tons of them. We consider the important aspects and select the top 12ax7 phono preamps based on those.
Specifications: Numbers always help you measure the quality of a product in a quantitative way. We try to find products with higher specifications, but with the right balance.
Quality: A product’s quality may always be quantified with the aid of numbers. We look for goods with better standards that strike the proper balance. The best quality product that gets highly appreciated and recommended by experienced users.
Customer ratings: Would it be accurate to suggest that the 12ax7 phono preamps were used by hundreds of customers before you? Superior ratings indicate that many customers had better service.
Customer Reviews: Like ratings, provide you with accurate and reliable information about the product from genuine customers. Customer ratings are very important to all of us because they contain accurate and reliable information about the customer service we received from several hundred customers.
Seller Rank: This is very intriguing! Not only do you need a good 12ax7 phono preamps, you also need a product with rising sales that is trendy. It accomplishes two goals. First, the expanding user base proves the quality of the product. Second, given that number, producers must be able to offer greater quality and after-sales support.
Value: You get what you pay for, they say, so consider the value. Cheap isn’t always good and expensive isn’t always bad. However, that does not imply that spending a lot of money on a product that is flashy but underwhelming is a good idea. Before adding them to the list, we make an effort to evaluate how much value you can get for your money from your 12ax7 phono preamps.
Durability: Durability and reliability are closely related concepts. You will benefit from a strong and long-lasting 12ax7 phono preamps for months and years to come.
Product availability: Products come and go, and new ones replace the old ones. Most likely, a few new features and required changes were made. What use is it to use a supposedly good product if the maker no longer supports it? We make an effort to highlight products that are current and offered by one or more trustworthy sellers, if not more.
Negative Reviews: Yes, we do take that into account as well! The goods with the majority of bad reviews are filtered out and disregarded when we choose the best-rated one on the market.
These are the standards by which we selected our 12ax7 phono preamps. Do we end our process there? Hell no. The most crucial fact about us that you should be aware of is that we regularly update our website with current and pertinent information. We have one more layer of filtration since we place the greatest importance on reader satisfaction. Please let us know if any product included here is incorrect, irrelevant, subpar, or simply out of date. We always value your opinions, and we’ll work hard to make any necessary corrections to our list in response to them.
Why should you believe us?
There are now thousands of possibilities for these products on Amazon, but choosing the best one can be difficult and time-consuming. And what 12ax7 phono preamps should you purchase in 2022?
This guide is the result of more than 10 years of experience in researching, testing and writing about many topics. Each member of our team is an authority in their area. We read every article we could find online and every consumer review on every retail website for seven hours. Additionally, we discovered a ton of websites that offered helpful resources, including buying tips and thorough information on 12ax7 phono preamps.
