2. analog
  3. 1093962971

Phono stage / Preamp Question

Hi,

This is my first post here, and I'm about to reveal my absolute newbie status with it, so I apologize if the old hands think this is an asinine question.

I'm not exactly an audiophile (too poor graduate student), but definitely an enthusiast in both Stereo Audio and Home Theater audio. I have a modest home theater setup from Onkyo that has to double as my stereo audio system as well.

I'm starting to wander into new territory and I'm thinking about adding fairly serious analog capability to my system in the form of an entry-level audiophile turntable (NAD 533, Pro-Ject 1 Xpression, etc). As such, I also need to add a phono preamp since my modern HT recvr has no phono inputs.

My question is this: can I connect a full on preamp such as a NAD 1020 to my integrated amplifier through one of the AUX inputs? Phrased another way; Can I use a NAD 1020 preamp as a phono stage?

My question steps from a lack of real understanding of what the preamp does. It would seem to me that using a NAD 1020 preamp into an integrated amplifier (built in preamp) would put the signal through 2 preamp sections in succession. I have no idea what effects this would have on the signal, or if it would damage my integrated amplifier.

I'm thinking about the NAD 1020 as I'd like to eventually separate my 2-channel and HT systems, and using the NAD as a phono stage would mean that I'd already have a pre-amp when I do decide to make that step. Buying used, it's no more (probably cheaper) than a quality dedicated phono pre-amp, so I can't see any disadvantage to it unless it's going to kill my current integrated amplifier or something.

Any help?
wrxdriver

Showing 1 response by nrchy

nrchy's avatar
nrchy
2,124 posts
 
Paul offered a good explanation of the function of a phono stage to which additional explanation is not required.

I do have a question about your motivation in asking about the NAD though. Do you already own this unit? Are you considering buying it with the goal of moving into seperates at some point?

The reason I'm asking is that a dedicated phono stage can be purchased new or used for less than the cost (typicall) of a pre-amp. The dedicated phono stage will (typically) work better than one that was just added to a mid-quality pre-amp. It is not my intention to ridicule the NAD, but better stand alone phono stages will offer you a more direct signal route. Remember, every connection is a loss of signal. Shorter signal routes sound better.
More to discover