10 Best Turntable Preamps 2025 in the United States

The ANGELS HORN Vinyl Record Player stands out as a solid choice for those looking to enhance their vinyl listening experience. Its high-fidelity sound quality is impressive, thanks to the AT-3600L phono cartridge which delivers clear and detailed audio, making it suitable for both casual listeners and audiophiles alike. The built-in Bluetooth feature allows for easy connectivity with mobile devices, offering versatility beyond just vinyl playback.

In terms of build quality, the player boasts a stylish wooden design, which not only looks great but also helps it blend into home decor seamlessly. The adjustable counterweight adds a touch of customization, helping to minimize skipping and distortion during playback. The inclusion of a built-in phono preamp is a significant advantage, as it eliminates the need for purchasing an external preamp, reducing setup complexity and cost.

However, there are a few drawbacks to consider. The turntable's weight at 27 pounds might be a bit cumbersome for some users, especially if space is limited. While the built-in speakers are decent, audiophiles may prefer investing in higher-quality external speakers for an enhanced audio experience. Additionally, the device’s signal-to-noise ratio could be better, as it might pick up some background noise during quieter passages of music. The two-speed capability (33 1/3 & 45 RPM) is beneficial, but the lack of advanced impedance matching options might limit its compatibility with certain high-end setups.

The Fosi Audio Box X2 Phono Preamp offers a blend of quality and versatility for those looking to enhance their turntable setup. One of its standout features is the three switchable gain modes (39, 42, or 45 dB), which allows users to customize the sound according to their preference and compatibility needs. The presence of a tube preamplifier with a 3.5mm AUX input not only provides warm, smooth sound but also gives the flexibility to swap out vacuum tubes, further tailoring the audio experience.

This preamp uses high-quality components and low-noise integrated circuits, which helps to deliver a clear sound quality by effectively removing low-frequency noise. The grounding post adds an extra layer of protection for your turntable, contributing to the durability and performance. However, it's important to note that while the build quality is solid, the compact size might be limiting for some users who prefer a more robust setup. Connectivity options are reasonable, but they remain quite basic with the provided RCA cable.

The included package is comprehensive, offering everything needed to start, but the product is best suited for entry-level to mid-range users rather than high-end audiophiles seeking top-tier performance. The Fosi Audio Box X2 Phono Preamp is a good, versatile option for those looking to upgrade their turntable setup with customizable gain settings and tube preamp capabilities, but it may not meet the demands of the most discerning audiophiles.

The Qlearsoul SoulBox S1 is an attractive, entry-level turntable system that pairs a built-in preamp with powerful stereo speakers, making it a convenient all-in-one choice for vinyl lovers who want simplicity and quality sound. Its switchable preamp and electronic speed control at 33/45 RPM provide stable playback, while the innovative S-shaped tonearm with adjustable counterweight and anti-skating helps reduce skipping and distortion.

The sound is notably rich and dynamic, thanks to quality speaker components and advanced crossover technology, delivering clear highs, warm mids, and punchy bass. Connectivity with Bluetooth streaming adds versatility beyond vinyl playback. The build feels solid with a retro style using wood and metal parts, and included accessories like a dust cover and 45 RPM adapter enhance value.

This turntable is ideal for beginners and casual collectors who appreciate ease of use, decent sound performance, and a stylish design without needing complex audio setups or external components.