Why is an Amplifier required?

mklamb · « **on:** 19 Jun 2008, 11:40 am »

Hi,

Pardon my ignorance but I am curious as to why an amplifier or receiver is required for a turntable setup?

Which of these setups would work or not and why?
1. Turntable--Phono pre-amp--speakers(example: Epos or Paradigm)
2. Turntable--Phono pre-amp--computer--speakers
3. Turntable--Phono pre-amp--amplifier--speakers
4. Turntable--Phono pre-amp--receiver--speakers
Are 3 & 4 the same configuration?
5. Turntable--Pre-amp+amp--speakers
(are there decent pre-amp+amp in one)? Not hugely expensive (say under $500).

Thanx!

woodsyi · « **Reply #1 on:** 19 Jun 2008, 12:29 pm »

A Receiver with phono input will do it. Phono section will have RIAA EQ and gain (usually MM only) then the amplification part of your receiver will drive the speakers.

Thebiker · « **Reply #2 on:** 19 Jun 2008, 01:39 pm »

mklamb, first off, welcome to the Circle.

As woodsyi stated, a receiver with a phono pre-amp will do it. The receiver provides a radio tuner as well as source switching and amplification to drive the speakers.

The other choice for a pre-amp/amp on one chassis would be an integrated amp of which there are a few to be had for under the $500 mark. NAD & Cambridge Audio come to mind and there are quite a few others. The key for you seems to be you need one with an on-board phono pre-amp. You can shop for new or go somewhere like www.audiogon.com for used and click on the link for integrated amps. Good equipment can frequently be found at decent prices in the used market place. Some of us change equipment like "normal" folks change socks.

Good luck and again, welcome.

Walt

mklamb · « **Reply #3 on:** 19 Jun 2008, 01:56 pm »

Thanx for the welcome and thanx for the explanation! That makes sense.

With respect to Cambridge, which would be a good intergrated amp or a phono preamp?

Also, I am just getting into Vinyl and started researching everything related to turntables, etc.
Not bought one as yet. Looking for recommendations on that too.
I have a post on audioasylum with my initial research and will be posting that here too for suggestions.

Mahesh (mklamb)