What Is a Preamp for a Turntable?
Updated Nov 11, 2026 · By 
Jonah Mercer · Editorial policy
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A phono preamp, or preamplifier, raises the small signal from a turntable cartridge to line level, so an amplifier or powered speakers can play it. A turntable with a built-in phono preamp can connect straight to a line input, while a turntable without one needs a separate phono preamp between the turntable and the amplifier.
What the preamp does to the signal
The cartridge in a turntable makes a phono-level signal, and a normal line input expects a line-level signal. The phono preamp sits between the two: it takes the phono-level signal from the cartridge and raises it to line level. That is why a turntable plugs into a phono input, or into a line input through a preamp, instead of straight into a line input.
Check whether your turntable has one built in
Look for a switch marked phono and line, or check the specs for a built-in phono preamp. The Audio-Technica AT-LP60X and AT-LP120X both have a built-in switchable phono preamp for phono- or line-level output. The 1 BY ONE turntable lists a built-in amplifier for externally powered speakers, and the Victrola Journey lists stereo RCA outputs, so check what each model states before you connect it.
Set the switch to match the input
Set the preamp switch to line when the turntable connects to a line input, an Aux-in port, or powered speakers. Set it to phono when the turntable connects to a phono input or to a separate phono preamp. If the switch is set wrong, the level comes out too quiet or too loud, so check the setting before you play a record.
Connect the turntable to the preamp and speakers
Connect the turntable output to the preamp input with the RCA cable, then connect the preamp output to the line input on the amplifier or powered speakers. The Audio-Technica AT-LP60X includes a detachable RCA output cable, and the AT-LP120X connects to wired audio systems and powered speakers through its included dual RCA output cable. Keep the turntable and the preamp on the same surface so the cables reach without pulling.
What you need
1 BY ONE High Fidelity Belt Drive
A belt-drive turntable with built-in speakers and a built-in amplifier that connects to externally powered speakers, plus Bluetooth and Aux-in.
- Bluetooth
- Built-in speakers
- Drive: Belt Drive
Victrola Journey
A 3-speed belt-drive suitcase turntable with built-in stereo speakers, stereo RCA outputs for external speakers, and a headphone jack.
- Bluetooth
- Built-in speakers
- 1-year warranty stated
- 5.5 lb, the lightest here
Audio-Technica AT-LP60X-BK Fully Automatic Belt-Drive Stereo Turntable
A fully automatic belt-drive turntable with a built-in switchable phono preamp for phono- or line-level output, playing 33-1/3 and 45 RPM records.
- Built-in phono preamp
- 1 year warranty stated
Audio-Technica AT-LP120XBT-USB-BK Wireless Direct-Drive Turntable
A fully manual direct-drive turntable with a built-in switchable phono preamp for phono- or line-level output, Bluetooth, and USB.
- Built-in phono preamp
- Bluetooth
- 1-year warranty stated
These come from our ranked list Best Record Player, which compares them spec by spec.
Frequently asked questions
Do all turntables have a built-in preamp?
No. The Audio-Technica AT-LP60X and AT-LP120X have a built-in switchable phono preamp. The 1 BY ONE lists a built-in amplifier, and the Victrola Journey lists stereo RCA outputs, so check the specs of the model you own before you buy a separate one.
Can I connect a turntable straight to powered speakers?
Yes, if the turntable has a built-in phono preamp set to line, or if a separate phono preamp sits between the turntable and the speakers. The 1 BY ONE has a built-in amplifier for externally powered speakers, and the AT-LP120X connects to powered speakers through its included dual RCA output cable.
What speeds do these turntables play?
The 1 BY ONE spins at 33 and 45 RPM, the Victrola Journey plays 33 1/3, 45 and 78 RPM, the AT-LP60X plays 33-1/3 and 45 RPM, and the AT-LP120X plays 33/45/78 RPM.
Ranked turntables lists
More how-to guides
Product details come from each Amazon listing and can change. Check the listing before you buy.