The amount of gain that a phono preamp should have depends on the type of cartridge that you are using. Moving magnet (MM) cartridges typically have an output of 2-5 mV, while moving coil (MC) cartridges typically have an output of 0.2-0.5 mV.
The phono preamp should have enough gain to boost the signal from the cartridge to a level that is compatible with your amplifier. Most amplifiers have a line-level input sensitivity of 200 mV. This means that the phono preamp should have a gain of at least 40 dB for MM cartridges and 60 dB for MC cartridges.
However, it is important to note that the amount of gain that you need will also depend on your other audio components. For example, if you have a high-gain amplifier, you may not need as much gain from your phono preamp. Conversely, if you have a low-gain amplifier, you may need more gain from your phono preamp.
It is also important to consider the noise level of your phono preamp. Phono preamps with a high gain tend to be more noisy. This is because they have to amplify the signal from the cartridge more, which also amplifies the noise.
If you are unsure how much gain you need or if you are concerned about noise, it is best to consult with a qualified audio technician. They can help you to choose a phono preamp with the right amount of gain for your system.
Here are some tips for choosing a phono preamp with the right amount of gain:
- Consider the type of cartridge that you are using. MM cartridges require less gain than MC cartridges.
- Consider the other audio components in your system. If you have a high-gain amplifier, you may not need as much gain from your phono preamp. Conversely, if you have a low-gain amplifier, you may need more gain from your phono preamp.
- Consider the noise level of the phono preamp. Phono preamps with a high gain tend to be more noisy.
If you are unsure how much gain you need or if you are concerned about noise, it is best to consult with a qualified audio technician.
