Are you trying to find phono preamp for mc and mm cartridges 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 phono preamp for mc and mm cartridges 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 28 hours of research and did 38 phono preamp for mc and mm cartridges 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 phono preamp for mc and mm cartridges you can buy today
- Compact phono preamplifier
- Adjusts for MM or MC cartridge via switch on rear panel
- Small size allows installation close to record player
- Ultra-low impedance output stage
- Metal case shields the electronics from vibration and electromagnetic interference
- Schiit’s all-new Mani 2 sets the standard for performance and capability in an affordable phono stage. Super low noise and high RIAA accuracy.
- Gain: Choose 35, 45, 50, or 60dB of gain, for virtually any cartridge from Decca to low-output MC and MI models.
- Loading: Choose 47KΩ, 200Ω, 47Ω, or 38Ω, and 47pF, 100pF, 150pF, or 200pF for virtually any MM, MC, or MI cartridge.
- Filter: Choose 6dB/octave or 12dB/octave of purely passive low-frequency filtering (at 15 Hz), to help with warped records or other subsonic problems.
- Designed and built in TX, USA. 115VAC only. USA Plug. Suitable for use in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Will not work in 220 – 240V countries.
- Schiit’s all-new Mani 2 sets the standard for performance and capability in an affordable phono stage. Super low noise and high RIAA accuracy.
- Gain: Choose 35, 45, 50, or 60dB of gain, for virtually any cartridge from Decca to low-output MC and MI models.
- Loading: Choose 47KΩ, 200Ω, 47Ω, or 38Ω, and 47pF, 100pF, 150pF, or 200pF for virtually any MM, MC, or MI cartridge.
- Filter: Choose 6dB/octave or 12dB/octave of purely passive low-frequency filtering (at 15 Hz), to help with warped records or other subsonic problems.
- Designed and built in TX, USA. 115VAC only. USA Plug. Suitable for use in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Will not work in 220 – 240V countries.
- The Rega Fono MC is an exceptionally high quality MC phono stage designed to maximise the potential of any MC cartridge.
- The Rega Fono MC has been designed to be effective, easy to use, and above all, to reproduce music. The Fono MC uses the Linear Systems low noise LSK389 FET in an all discrete input stage where low noise and linearity are vitally important to get the best from an MC cartridge
- A MUSE operational amplifier is used in the RIAA equalization amplifier. Polypropylene capacitors have been used in the signal path and in the RIAA equalization circuits.
- The aesthetic design of the Fono MC was as important as the quality of its electrical capabilities, so it benefits from the same aluminium case as the Rega TTPSU and Fono MM amplifier, giving it a design which offers a familiar feel and moreover brings it in line with its illustrious bigger brothers
- Frequency response (50KΩ output load) = 13Hz (-3dB) to 100KHz (-0.3dB) RIAA accuracy (50KΩ output load) = Better than +/-0.2dB 100Hz to 100KHz Power requirements = 24V AC at 150mA maximum. Only to be used with Rega PS1.
- Premium phono preamp
- MM and MC capable
- Fully balanced double mono design
- Adjustable input capacitance
- RCA and XLR input and output
- MM and MC phono preamplifier, front panel MM/MC switch
- Separate chassis for power supply and phono stage
- Inputs: 1 x Stereo RCA, 1 x 5-pin DIN (DC IN PHO-300)
- Outputs: 1 x Stereo RCA, 1 x 5-pin DIN (DC OUT PHO-300ps)
- Rear panel ground connection, detachable C7-style power cord, rear-panel fuse
- MM and MC phono preamplifier, front panel MM/MC switch
- Separate chassis for power supply and phono stage
- Inputs: 1 x Stereo RCA, 1 x 5-pin DIN (DC IN PHO-300)
- Outputs: 1 x Stereo RCA, 1 x 5-pin DIN (DC OUT PHO-300ps)
- Rear panel ground connection, detachable C7-style power cord, rear-panel fuse
- MM /MC phono input, support multiple input impedance switch (1KΩ/470Ω/220Ω/100Ω/47Ω/22Ω/10Ω), converts phono signal to line level signal, low-noise integrated circuits and high-quality components to ensure clear sound. 3.5mm AUX input, amplify the low level audio signal from your phone, tablet, PC, MP3 etc., easier to drive amplifier or active speaker and greatly improve the sound quality.
- Unique and amazing combination in the appearance: integrated T4 PLUS preamp with retro tubes and VU meter into a whole, the pointer dancing in the warm light with strong vintage feelings when enjoy HiFi music, dynamically decorates the audio system and give you a different acoustic enjoyment with large dynamic and sweet tube sound even in limited space.
- US JAN5654 tubes and vintage warm sound: default comes with JAN5654 tubes, improves everything associated with your music such as detail, transparency, immediacy, richness, dynamic, tone etc., much better than 6J1 series especially in human voice. Pluggable tube socket for tube rolling and sound-shaping, easy to pick from and alter the sound signature to one's preference.
- 3.5mm headphone output and perfect circuit design: T4 PLUS also with built-in classic headphone amp circuit (2*NE5532), easily to drive 32-300 ohm headphones. Reasonable and advanced architecture, TI TPS5430+7205MOS for power management, TL071+JRC2068 phono preamp circuit etc., enjoy HiFi analog sound and first-class design with an unbeatable low cost.
- Mini size and excellent performance: all designs full of details, such as solid aluminum alloy knob, gold-plated terminals, grey integrated moulding aluminum alloy shell decorates with built-in VU meter, looks vintage and elegant. Not only a MM/MC phono preamp, but also a stereo audio preamp and headphone amplifier, especially designed for the audiophiles who pursue HiFi sound.
- Audiophile Performance
- Dual mono configuration
- Audiophile-grade amplification modules
- Audiophile-grade polypropylene WIMA capacitors
- Precise RIAA equalization
- The new Rega FONO MK5 MM phono stage has been designed to be effective, easy to use, and above all, to reproduce music
- The Rega FONO MK5 MM uses a fully discrete, cascaded, complementary amplifier input stage, a configuration designed to optimise the performance of your moving magnet cartridge.
- The RIAA equalization has been split into two stages to minimise interaction. Polyester capacitors have been used in the signal path and polypropylene capacitors are used in the RIAA equalization circuits.
- The aesthetic design of the FONO MK5 MM was as important as the quality of its electrical capabilities, so it benefits from the same aluminium case as the NEW Rega TTPSU and NEW FONO MK4 MC amplifier, giving it a design which offers a familiar feel and moreover brings it in line with its illustrious bigger brothers.
- Input sensitivity = 1.7mV for 200mV output, Input loading = 47KΩ in parallel with 100pF, Maximum input level = 60mV at 1KHz, Recommended minimum output load resistance = 5KΩ
- What Hi-Fi? Award winner 2017/2018/2019/2020/2021
- 【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.
- Skoll is a high performance, versatile, low cost phono preamp for use with MM, MC, or MI cartridges.
- XLR Balanced and RCA single-ended inputs and outputs mean you can connect Skoll to any turntable system.
- Skoll is insanely quiet and accurate and designed to deliver the flexibility you need without penalty.
- The remote control enables you to choose from 4 gains, 5 resistive loads, 4 capacitive loads, and toggle the switchable passive LF filter.
- Designed and built in TX, USA. 115VAC only. USA Plug. Suitable for use in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Will not work in 220 – 240V countries.
- Connect any turntable to a wide variety of audio systems. Perfect for DJs and vinyl enthusiasts
- Variable preamp gain; RCA preamp outputs
- High accuracy/ low noise phono preamp
- Switchable low cut rumble filter; Signal Present/Clip Indicator
- External power supply for lower noise; Moving Coil/Moving Magnet switchable input
- Pro-Ject Audio - Phono Box MM - MM Phono Pre-amplifier - Black
- Moving Coil to Moving Magnet Transformer
- Raises Level of Moving Coil Cartridges
- Improves Sound Quality of MC Turntables
- RCA I/O
- Preference Switch for Impedance Level
- Two chassis mm/mc phono stage
- Hybrid tube/solid state design
- Highly regulated power supply in separate chassis
- Inputs: 1x rca stereo, 1x din (dc in pho 700)
- 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.
- 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
How to choose a good phono preamp for mc and mm cartridges
Does the idea of finding a fantastic phono preamp for mc and mm cartridges 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 phono preamp for mc and mm cartridges. 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 phono preamp for mc and mm cartridges 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 phono preamp for mc and mm cartridges 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 phono preamp for mc and mm cartridges 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 phono preamp for mc and mm cartridges 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 phono preamp for mc and mm cartridges 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 phono preamp for mc and mm cartridges, 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 phono preamp for mc and mm cartridges.
Durability: Durability and reliability are closely related concepts. You will benefit from a strong and long-lasting phono preamp for mc and mm cartridges 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 phono preamp for mc and mm cartridges. 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 phono preamp for mc and mm cartridges 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 phono preamp for mc and mm cartridges.
