2. amps-preamps
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Pre-Amp vs. Integrated...why?

I have been a vinyl listener now for over a year and one concept that escapes me is the "need" for a vinyl pre-amp.

I understand the need if your current amp does not have a Phono input, but if you have an amp that has a phono input, why buy a phono pre-amp to run your TT through?

Is it standard thinking that the integrated Phono input is always substandard to a good phono pre + amp setup?

Are there lines that are drawn so to speak, maybe from a dollar standpoint, that clearly mark the quality in phono stage? (i.e., are cheap $50 pre-amps worse than a $300-$400 integrated or vice versa is a $400 integrated usually going to get crushed by the $500 pre + Amp setup?)

Are there exceptions where a lower cost integrated can hold it's own with Pre and Amp setup?

I am in the process of assembling a second Vinyl listening station in my house and want to start from scratch with new and different equipment. Something different from what I have had over the past year.

Can anybody clarify this or demystify this for me?

My current setup:

-LP120 turntable / AT440MLb cart
-Marantz 2220B Amp
-Infinity RS2000 bookshelf speakers

My future/second setup:

-Amp?
-TT? (I have ideas)
-Elac B6 Debut bookshelf speakers (already have)

Room specs are about 12x12 and this is for vinyl listening only. Other stuff is a bonus but not necessary.
jhamond987
jl35
2,244 posts
 
agree with mesch...but there are some very low cost phono preamps that would match well with your cartridge, so if you find an integrated without a built in phono that you like...I just bought a refurb Cambridge Solo MM phono pre that sounds great with my Ortofon MM cartridge and vintage Yamaha TT
elizabeth
6,726 posts
 
At the op price point there is not a lot of reasons to go separates. However if you run into a good deal on a stand alone phono box would not hurt to acquire it. But no reason to search for one.
Most low cost ’phono’ installed are just a small section of a few parts or just a inexpensive chip. You get what you pay for.. Generally at the low end of the audiophile journey, your money should be blown on speakers.. (self powered ones... ) mostly.
My 2 cents.
roberjerman
2,086 posts
 
Yes, a separate pre/power amp will beat a receiver for SQ! But the sky's the limit for cost! I, however, like and use vintage gear (have a Marantz 2235) - a large collection! Presently using an RGR 4 preamp, GAS Son of Ampzilla and DCM Time Windows (52779, 52780). Total cost: about $800! SQ to die for! Judicious choices of vintage gear can yield outstanding SQ - at affordable cost!
roberjerman
2,086 posts
 
The OP can get a Bellari tube phono stage for $275 (free shipping) and use it into the AUX input on the 2220. EBay seller is "decibelaudio" in Chicago. Superior SQ over the 2220's phono stage! It uses a single dual-triode 12AX7. So easy to experiment with different brands (GE, Sylvania, Mullard, Telefunken ... ).
roberjerman
2,086 posts
 
The nice thing about the Bellari VP130 is that it is USA-made! I have the Bellari SUT for use with my mc cartridges. A quality product at an affordable price!
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