So much of my equipment is modded its hard to say I’m using anything as intended. My integrated didn’t come with a pre out for example, but it has one now. You can see my phono stage, system, and a few of the mods here https://systems.audiogon.com/systems/8367 It didn’t come with a phono stage either. The advantages in terms of sound quality from a good stand alone phono stage cannot be exaggerated. It will cost a lot more. Especially considering you need a pretty good interconnect to take full advantage. But once you do- wow! You will never go back.
Polling Integrated Amp & Vinyl Users
Just curious how many of you use a separate Phono pre-amp vs. the Phono section of your Integrated? I have an Anthem STR IA which has turntables plugged into both the MM & MC Phono inputs. I have a myriad number of cartridges. I have no complaints with the sound. To my ears, it’s a really nice Phono stage that does include some adjustable gain.
The compactness of an IA is what I like about them. No fuss, no muss. Less of everything. And yet! I do think about getting a separate Phono pre just for grins. Always wanting to compare. Wanderlust.
I’m going to resist the urge at this point in time. Perhaps another day. Not that hard a decision when I’m happy with what I’ve got.
Are you using your Integrated as intended? Or are you using separate boxes, i.e. phono, DAC’s etc. to complement your sound?
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