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Is an amp necessary for a turntable?
A turntable needs an amplifier to play vinyl records. The output signal from a turntable is not strong enough to drive speakers. Powered speakers, that have the amplifier built-in, can be connected directly to a turntable without the need of a separate amplifier.
How do I know if I need a preamp for my turntable?
To check if the turntable has a built-in preamp, check if there is a LINE output. A turntable with a LINE output always has a built-in preamp. If there, on the other hand, is a PHONO output only, the turntable doesn’t have a built-in preamp.
Can you plug a turntable directly into speakers?
You can connect your turntable directly to speakers if, and only if, your turntable ha s a built-in preamp and your speakers have a built-in amplifier. But if your turntable only has a PHONO output it will need to be hooked up to an external preamp. Or to a receiver with a preamp built in.
Do modern turntables need a preamp?
Some turntables have a preamp built-in. Some older amplifiers and stereo systems also have preamps built-in (look for inputs marked PHONO). DJ mixers function as a preamp. If you do need an external preamp, you will need a set of cables (usually RCA cables) to connect to your audio system.
Do you have to buy speakers with a turntable?
Speakers. You will need some kind of speakers to play the music from your turntable. You can also plug your turntable directly into powered/active speakers which feature a built-in amplifier. Do note that some powered speakers have a built-in amp and pre-amp, while some have just a built-in amp.
What is the difference between an amp and a preamp?
The main differences between preamps and amps are: A preamp amplifies the sound signal to line level, whereas an amplifier boosts sound to audible levels. A preamp is used to amplify inputs with weak signals like microphones, whereas an amp deals with stronger signals like electric guitars and mixers.
Do I need an amplifier with a preamp and turntable?
Once your have a turntable and pre-amp you will need an amplifier to connect to the preamplifier in order to boost the signal to a line level signal. You could utilize an A/V receiver, separate amplifier, or powered speakers that have a built-in amplifier (different than pre-amp).
Can you connect powered speakers to a turntable without an amp?
There is, however, one exception. Powered speakers, that have the amplifier built-in, can be connected directly to a turntable without the need of a separate amplifier. We’ll look at all the possible ways to set up a stereo to play vinyl records later in this article.
How do you hook up a turntable?
The simplest way to hook up a turntable is to use a turntable with a built-in preamp and powered speakers. In this setup, you only need powered speakers with your turntable. The most advanced way to set up a turntable is to have all the four essential components as separate units. A turntable, a separate preamp, an amplifier and speakers.
What kind of speakers do I need for a beginner turntable?
For the simplest setup, you will only need a pair of powered speakers that connects directly to the turntable. A popular beginner combo is the Audio-Technica AT-LP60X turntable and the Edifier R1280DB powered speakers. This setup is affordable, easy to connect, and easy to use.