Phonostages


I'm new to all this audiophile stuff so bear with the question. What is a phonostage's function and do I need one?
drpat
Thanks again for the good advice. I do have a VPI record cleaner. What is an LP Protractor?
Drpat- Not to contradict Al, but if you go with a low output MC cart you can use a step up transformer (SUT) like a K&K or a Bent Audio or AudioNote. etc. or a pre-preamp = headamp like the ZYX CC3, which will provide sufficient voltage to properly drive an MM phono stage. There is lots of controversy in the forums on SUT vs. active gain stage, but suffice it to say that matching a cart to an SUT properly is a pretty arcane science and very sensitive to cart loading, whereas a pre-preamp or headamp with an active gain stage is "easier". If you decide to go the SUT route, I would recommend getting advice from someone who really understands the issue.