Do I just need a Preamp?

[Alex Bourke]

I have a Gemini turntable (quite budget) and just want to listen to the turntable, nothing else.

I bought an integrated amplifier (because that's what I thought I needed) but this didn't work, sent back.

Could I just connect a preamp to the turntable and speakers?

I don't need any other amplifier, do I?

 

[Irvrobinson]

I have a Gemini turntable (quite budget) and just want to listen to the turntable, nothing else.

I bought an integrated amplifier (because that's what I thought I needed) but this didn't work, sent back.

Could I just connect a preamp to the turntable and speakers?

I don't need any other amplifier, do I?

No, you need a power amplifier in the signal path to drive the speakers. You can get it with an integrated amplifier with a phono input, a receiver with a phono input, or a separate pre-amp and power amp combination.

 

[Alex Bourke]

Thanks for the reply.

I know this is going to be a stupid question but here goes...

As I am trying to buy an amp on ebay, I assuming then any amplifier with a phono connection will work? (but NOT a preamp)

 

[markw]

Power amps don't have volume controls. Neither do phono preamps.

You need an integrated amp with a built in phono preamp. If it doesn't have a built-in phono preamp, you can buy one separately.

Not all integrated amplifiers have a built in phono preamp but, if they specifically say they have a phono input you're PROBABLY good to go. Check carefully before buying.

Of course, if you mention makes and model, we might be able to give a more definitive answer.

At worst, you can buy a standalone phono preamp which will allow any turntable to work with any integtarated amp or receiver.

That's what you probably needed with your last integrated amp.

 

[3db]

+1 at what Markw says

 

[slipperybidness]

Quick definitions

*Power amp is what drives the speakers
*Pre amp takes line level to level that amp can handle. It also usually has volume and source select
*Phono pre amp has more gain b/c the phono signal is small. It also has RIAA equalization circuit. These can be their own box, or included on AVR or integrated amp (read up on models you are looking at).
*Integrated amp = power and and preamp in 1 box (some have phono preamps and some don't)

 

[Alex Bourke]

This is ALL great info. Thanks so much!!!