Phonoforforstærkere

Phonoforforstærkere, a term primarily used in Danish, refers to a specific type of preamplifier designed for use with phonograph cartridges. These devices are essential components in a vinyl playback system, as they boost the very weak electrical signal produced by a turntable's cartridge to a level that can be handled by a standard amplifier or receiver.

The output signal from a moving magnet (MM) or moving coil (MC) cartridge is extremely low and requires significant amplification. Furthermore, phonograph cartridges have a specific frequency response curve known as the RIAA equalization curve. A phonoforforstærker not only amplifies the signal but also applies the inverse of this curve to restore the correct tonal balance, which is intentionally attenuated at the mastering stage to allow for more compact grooves on the record and to reduce surface noise.

There are various types of phonoforforstærkere, ranging from integrated units found within turntables or amplifiers to standalone external boxes. The quality of a phonoforforstærker can significantly impact the overall sound quality of a vinyl playback system, with different designs and components affecting factors like noise floor, detail retrieval, and sonic accuracy. Some high-end phonoforforstærkere offer adjustable gain and impedance settings to optimally match different types of cartridges.