Phono Input
The number of stereo inputs for connecting turntable cartridges.
Also called: Phono Inputs
A left/right socket pair counts as one input. Ground posts and line inputs do not count. RCA or XLR names alone cannot tell you the number: some connectors share an input, while others are separately selectable. More inputs mean more connection choices, not necessarily better sound.
Phono Inputs — Phono Preamp
On a phono preamp, the total includes all cartridge inputs, including optical ones where fitted. Balanced and optical input counts are subsets; do not add them again. Several selectable inputs let you keep different turntables or tonearms connected without swapping cables.
Check which inputs can be selected independently and whether each remembers its gain and loading settings. Optical cartridge inputs require explicitly compatible optical cartridges. They may supply DC power, so never connect an MM or MC cartridge merely because its plugs fit. These are not digital optical audio connections.
Sources
- E-2E User Guide — Soulnote
- Phono Box RS2 Instructions for Use, revision 2020.05.15 — Pro-Ject Audio Systems
Phono Input — Preamp
On a preamp, this counts inputs served by its fitted phono stage; an optional, unfitted board does not count. Check moving-magnet (MM) or moving-coil (MC) support separately, along with gain (amplification) and loading (the electrical load presented to the cartridge). The input count alone cannot establish compatibility.
Connect an unprocessed cartridge signal to a compatible phono input. A turntable with its internal phono stage enabled instead feeds an AUX or line input. To use the receiving phono input, bypass that internal stage where the turntable permits it.
Sources
- AT-LP70XBT: Setting pre-amplifier selector switch — Audio-Technica
- MODEL 30: Connecting a playback device — Marantz
- Phono Box RS2 Instructions for Use, revision 2020.05.15 — Pro-Ject Audio Systems
Sources
- E-2E User Guide — Soulnote
- Phono Box RS2 Instructions for Use, revision 2020.05.15 — Pro-Ject Audio Systems