Connecting a Turntable to a Receiver Without Phono Input- A Step-by-Step Guide

How to Connect Turntable to Receiver Without Phono Input

In today’s digital age, many audio receivers lack a dedicated phono input, which is essential for connecting a turntable. However, with a bit of creativity and the right equipment, you can still enjoy your vinyl collection through your receiver. This article will guide you through the process of connecting your turntable to a receiver without a phono input.

Step 1: Obtain an RIAA Preamp

The first step is to acquire an RIAA preamp. This device is designed to boost the low-level signal from your turntable to a level that your receiver can handle. RIAA preamps come in various forms, including standalone units, phono preamps that can be added to your receiver, or built-in preamps in certain receivers.

Step 2: Choose the Right RIAA Preamp

When selecting an RIAA preamp, consider the following factors:

– Compatibility: Ensure that the preamp is compatible with your turntable and receiver.
– Inputs: Look for a preamp with a phono input that matches the type of turntable you have (MM, MC, or line-level).
– Output: Check that the preamp’s output matches the input type of your receiver (RCA, XLR, or other).
– Quality: Invest in a high-quality preamp to ensure the best sound quality possible.

Step 3: Connect the Turntable to the RIAA Preamp

To connect your turntable to the RIAA preamp, follow these steps:

1. Disconnect the turntable’s ground wire from the turntable’s chassis.
2. Connect the turntable’s ground wire to the ground terminal of the RIAA preamp.
3. Connect the turntable’s left and right outputs to the RIAA preamp’s corresponding inputs.

Step 4: Connect the RIAA Preamp to the Receiver

Next, connect the RIAA preamp to your receiver:

1. Connect the RIAA preamp’s output to an available line-level input on your receiver using an RCA cable.
2. If your receiver has multiple line-level inputs, label the input you’re using for the RIAA preamp to avoid confusion.

Step 5: Adjust the Volume and Balance

After connecting the turntable to your receiver, adjust the volume and balance settings on your receiver to ensure optimal sound quality. You may need to experiment with these settings to find the perfect balance between the turntable and other audio sources.

Conclusion

Connecting a turntable to a receiver without a phono input may seem daunting, but with the right equipment and a few simple steps, you can enjoy your vinyl collection through your receiver. By following this guide, you’ll be able to enjoy the rich sound of your turntable without any issues.