PHONO STAGES
EVERY RECORD DECK NEEDS A PHONO AMP
Russ Andrews X6 £381
September 2015 ★★★★★
No matter what the source material, the X6 helps unearth a revealing well-integrated listen, allowing your kit to be as explicit as it can be. Type Block Mains filter Yes No. of plugs 6
Rega Fono Mini A2D £85
March 2012 ★★★★★
There’s little fancy about the Fono Mini A2D, but that doesn’t matter when the presentation is this good. And it has a useful USB output. Type MM Dimensions (hwd) 6 x 18 x 25cm
Edwards Audio Apprentice MM £90
Best phono stage under £250, Awards 2017 ★★★★★
A fine entry-level phono stage that will deliver a crisp and exciting sound from any good price-compatible moving magnet cartridge. Type MM Dimensions (hwd) 5 x 16 x 11cm
Graham Slee Gram Amp 2 Communicator £180
July 2018 ★★★★★
A gem of a phono amplifier that has stood the test of time. It offers class-leading levels of detail, brilliant timing and a sweet sound. Type MM Dimensions (hwd) 5 x 12 x 19cm
Rega Fono MM MK3 £199
Best phono stage under £250, Awards 2018 ★★★★★
Rega has managed to take a near-perfect product and squeeze more improvements from it. It’s a class-leading performer. Type MM Dimensions (hwd) 5 x 18 x 14cm
Musical Fidelity LX2-LPS £199
April 2018 ★★★★★
Though it’s not as versatile as the Rega Mk3, the LX2 delivers a more engaging performance thanks to its open, full-bodied sound. Type MM, MC Dimensions (hwd) 4 x 17 x 19cm
Cambridge Audio Duo MC/MM £249
July 2018 ★★★★★
This is a well-equipped MM/MC phono stage that even has a headphone output. Its sound quality is right up there in the leading pack.
Type MM, MC Dimensions (hwd) 5 x 22 x 16cm
Arcam rphono £399
Best phono stage £250+, Awards 2018 ★★★★★
A hugely accomplished box from Arcam. It sounds great and has a combination of insight and entertainment that few rivals can match. Type MM, MC Dimensions (hwd) 4 x 19 x 12cm
Lindemann Limetree Phono £595
February 2019 ★★★★★
It may look ordinary, but this little box is an enjoyable and insightful performer with premium turntables, and sets a high standard at this price. Type MM, MC Dimensions (hwd) 4 x 12 x 12cm