2. amps-preamps
  3. 1447115686

Do I need a pre-amp?

Major noob here. Researching my first turntable purchase. One potential problem is my existing receiver, Marantz SR4001. Not sure if this home-theater receiver is immediately compatible or whether I will need an additional phono pre-amp? Here is spec book: http://newmedia.engl.iastate.edu/tutorials/DFU_SR4001_SR5001_Final_eng.pdf

Looks like there is a pre-amp OUT but I don't see any phono IN. Maybe that doesn't matter, but I'm not sure bc I don't know very much about this stuff. If I need a pre-amp, how much should I expect to spend to be on par w my entry-level B&W floor-standing speakers? I also have a B&W sub that I would like to keep thumping and will changing my setup require altering that config?

Also, this is the turntable I'm considering: https://app.audiogon.com/listings/turntables-conrad-johnson-sonographe-sg-3-with-alphason-opal-sumiko-andante-turntable-tonear-2015-10-12-analog-02461-newton-highlands-ma Is this a good starter table and on par w my setup?

Thanks in advance for helping me learn and sorry for the scattered questions. I've heard great things about this forum.
lionsdwarf

Showing 3 responses by lowrider57

lowrider57's avatar
lowrider57
5,418 posts
 
On websites like Needle Doctor, when you choose a budget TT which includes tonearm aND cart, you have access to suitable phonostages.
lowrider57's avatar
lowrider57
5,418 posts
 
Take a look at the phono preamps on Needle Doctor. As far as NAD, it seems decent, but don't choose a phonostage until you have a TT and a cartridge selected. They need to match.

For a TT, look at the Pro-Ject Debut Carbon DC, a good entry level into vinyl. You can read abut it in the archives.
lowrider57's avatar
lowrider57
5,418 posts
 
Lionsdwarf,
Hold on...one thing at a time. Stay with your original plan and add a vinyl setup to your Marantz.
What you're proposing is possible but it will get complicated and you really don't need the amp yet.

FYI, as far as the phono preamp goes, sometimes an integrated amp's internal phonostage is of a lesser quality than an external preamp. So get something decent, it doesn't have to be big bucks to have good sound.

I'll repeat myself, if you want plug and play, then look at budget tables and phono preamps at Needle Doctor. Sometimes there are package deals; e.g., a Pro-Ject TT, cart, and preamp.

To answer an earlier question, the NAD PP 2e Phono Preamp is a nice piece and it has a separate power supply (which means less noise), but you need to choose the TT and cart first.
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