Best Phono Preamp Under $100 For Your Turntable

Last Updated on March 8, 2023

I feel compelled to write this article simply because there have been some queries on what is a phono preamp and what is it used for. Interestingly, these are the same people who simply connect their turntable (without a build in phono preamp) into their speakers, hoping to hear a good quality sound. Let us clarify what is the purpose of the phono preamp as well as the reviews of some of the top phono preamps that cost under $100.

What Is A Phono Preamp

There are actually many names for a phono preamp. Sometimes, it is just referred to as a phono preamp, or in the context of a turntable, a phono preamp. Preamp would mean preamplifier, which is the stage before the signals are being amplified.

So, technically, when the stylus brushes against the grooves of the record, a signal will be generated. However, amplifiers nor speakers will be able to understand the signals. There needs to be a device, which is the phono preamp, that helps to convert such signals to one that is understandable by the amplifier.

In a nutshell, the preamp is a device that helps to translate signals to the amplifier so that sound could be generated!

Features to Look for in a Phono Preamp

Before we dive into the best phono preamps under $100, let’s take a closer look at some of the key features you should consider when choosing a phono preamp for your turntable:

1. Gain: The gain of a phono preamp determines the amplification of the signal from your turntable. A higher gain means a louder output signal, but it also increases the risk of distortion. Look for a phono preamp with adjustable gain settings to ensure the best sound quality.
2. Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR): The SNR is a measure of the amount of unwanted noise that the preamp introduces to the signal. Look for a preamp with a high SNR to minimize noise and ensure a clean, clear sound.
3. Input Impedance: The input impedance of a phono preamp should match the cartridge of your turntable. A mismatch can result in a loss of high frequencies and a distorted sound. Look for a preamp with adjustable input impedance settings to ensure compatibility with a wide range of turntables and cartridges.
4. Price: Of course, price is also an important factor when choosing a phono preamp. Fortunately, there are plenty of high-quality options available for under $100.

Best Budget Phono Preamp Under $100

While some turntables do come with an inbuilt preamp, there might be cases at which you would want to have a separate phono preamp that can do the job for you. In such cases, some people might prefer a cheaper alternative as they do not want to spend additional money, or they might have a tight budget. Are budget phono preamps bad? Not exactly! Indeed, some of the budget phono preamp are extremely well–built and hence good for the money. Here are some of our top selection.

#1: Creative Sound Blaster X-Fi HD USB Audio System with Phono Preamp
#2: Nobsound Little Bear T7
#3: Pro-Ject Phono Box E Phono Preamplifier
#4: GOgroove Mini Phono Turntable Preamp Preamplifier 
#5: Pyle Phono Turntable Preamp PP555 

Creative Sound Blaster X-Fi HD USB Audio System with Phono Preamp

If you are looking for an all-in-one phono preamp with various functions and features, then the Creative Sound Blaster X-Fi HD USB Audio System with Phono Preamp will be the top choice for you. This is because apart from having the capability of connecting to your turntable to translate the electric signals for amplification, it does have various other features that will enhance your overall listening experience.

We all know that Creative Technologies is the first company to ever produce sound cards and they are often regarded as a pioneer in sound engineering. Hence, it is not surprising that they are able to conjure up this magnificent piece of equipment.

The audio system with preamp for your turntable allows you to record and organise your digital music using its own software. Also, there is the THX TruStudio Pro system that helps to bring out the best out of your entire turntable set up. The phono preamp has an RIAA EQ that helps to convert the signals from your vinyl into other file formats that you can easily replay on other music devices.

Here are some of the key stats of the Creative Sound Blaster X-Fi HD USB Audio System with Phono Preamp.

With all these awesome features packed into this small little device, yet costing just a fraction of the usual high end phono preamps for turntables, the Creative Sound Blaster X-Fi HD USB Audio System with Phono Preamp proves to be the best phono preamp under $100! Perhaps, the only downside is that you will need to connect this to a PC so that the entire phono preamp would work.

 

Nobsound Little Bear T7 Vacumn Tube Mini Phono Stage RIAA MM Turntable Preamp

When it comes to the best phono tube preamp, nothing comes close to the Nobsound Little Bear T7 Vacumn Tube Mini Phono Stage RIAA MM Turntable Preamp.

The MM turntable Premap is able to provide a warm and high quality sound from your turntable. Since it is a tune phono preamp, it is highly portable, and hence you can bring it around easily too. This is actually an upgraded version of the older tube preamp. With the upgrade, the gain switch is now located on the outside of the device.

Do note that, however, it is only suitable for MM turntables as it does not support the MC varients of the turntable.

Here are some of the specs of the Little Bear T7 Vacumn Tube Mini Phono Stage RIAA MM Turntable Preamp that you might be interested in.

While being a budget phono preamp that cost less than $100, the Little Bear T7 Vacumn Tube Mini Phono Stage RIAA MM Turntable Preamp proves to be a best choice, especially when it comes to the best tube phono preamp. If you are looking for something small, portable, yet able to pack a punch, you should go for this!

 

Pro-Ject Phono Box E Phono Preamplifier

The Pro-Ject Phono Box E Phono Preamplifier is an excellent choice for a phono preamp, especially if you own the Pro-Ject Debut Carbon DC. It does have a simple yet sleek outlook that will surely suit the decor or design of many turntable setups.

In terms of connectivity, it is meant for both MC and MM turntables. Also, with the gold-plated RCA connections and the internal metallic shielding system, you can be assured that the sound projected will be clearer than most other phono preamps, giving the higher models a run for their money.

Here is a table of some of the specs that are more outstanding.

What we like about this budget phono preamp is the ability to produce good quality sound and yet not producing too much noise, and this is only doable via the low-noise audio circuitry that is present in the Pro-Ject Phono Box E Phono Preamplifier. One of the best buy phono preamp!

 

GOgroove Mini Phono Turntable Preamp

The GOgroove Mini Phono Turntable Preamp is another top choice for owners who wish to have a portable turntable preamp that does not cost much. Indeed, this is one of the few budget phono preamp for turntables that cost under $100.

The compact design is awesome as it really allows you to bring this small device wherever you go. What’s more, you have the ability to connect this mini phono turntable preamp to your speakers, stereo receiver while having the input from a turntable.

The controls on this mini phono preamp are simple to use, and you will be able to hear high-quality sound from this small little preamp. With a price lesser than $50, yet being able to produce sounds that rivals other phono preamps, you will have one of the most envied turntables around your peers.

This mini phono preamp is the number one seller on Amazon for a phono preamp. It is really not surprising why, given that it has a low cost, yet having so many features that is being packed into its small frame. The GOgroove Mini Phono Turntable Preamp is truly a good purchase that is hard for you to resist.

 

Pyle Phono Turntable Preamp PP555

Another top quality mini phono preamp, the Pyle Phono Turntable Preamp PP555 is also capable of converting the electrical signals from the turntable and push it through the connecting amplifiers.

What we love about the PP555 is that it has the ability to be connected to any modern turntables. From your Thorens TD 170-1 to the Thorens TD 190-2, you will able to hear top quality sound that will resonate through the hall. It is also helped by the fact that it operates almost silently due to the low-noise audio operation amplifiers!

The PP555 is also easy to operate too, given that the buttons, as well as the controls, are much more obvious than other budget phono preamps.

Here is a quick summary of its key facts.

If you are looking for a no-frills budget phono turntable, then the  Pyle Phono Turntable Preamp PP555 should be the only choice that you should make. With a low price yet having the ability to play a well-rounded tone, it is one of the best buy for phono preamps ever!

 

FAQs

Q. Do I need a phono preamp for my turntable?
A. Yes, a phono preamp is necessary to boost the low-level signal from your turntable to a line-level signal that can be used by your amplifier or speakers. Without a phono preamp, your turntable’s sound quality will suffer, and you’ll experience low volume and distortion.

Q. Can I use a phono preamp with any turntable?
A. Yes, most phono preamps are compatible with a wide range of turntables, regardless of their brand or model. However, it’s important to ensure that the preamp’s input impedance matches your turntable’s cartridge to avoid any compatibility issues.

Q. Can I use a more expensive phono preamp for better sound quality?
A. While a more expensive phono preamp may offer better performance and sound quality, there are plenty of high-quality options available for under $100. Choosing the right phono preamp depends on your budget and specific needs.

Conclusion

Investing in a high-quality phono preamp is essential for getting the best possible sound quality from your turntable. Whether you’re a seasoned audiophile or just starting to explore the world of vinyl, there are plenty of affordable and reliable options available on the market. When choosing a phono preamp, be sure to consider key features like gain, SNR, and input impedance, and look for options that fit your budget and specific needs. With the right phono preamp, you can enjoy the exceptional sound quality and a more immersive listening experience.