10 Best Turntable Preamps 2025 in the United States

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.

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 Pro-Ject Audio Phono Box DC is a compact phono preamp designed for those looking to enhance their vinyl listening experience. Its small size allows for convenient placement close to your turntable, which can help minimize noise and signal loss. With the ability to switch between MM (Moving Magnet) and MC (Moving Coil) cartridges, this preamp offers flexibility for different types of turntable setups.

The metal casing does an excellent job of shielding the electronics from vibrations and electromagnetic interference, which is crucial for maintaining audio clarity. Additionally, the ultra-low impedance output stage ensures that your signal remains strong and clear. The implementation of RIAA equalization helps in delivering accurate playback across the frequency range, maintaining fidelity to the original recordings.

The device lacks extensive adjustability options that some audiophiles might seek for fine-tuning their setups. Connectivity is straightforward, featuring the necessary inputs and outputs to integrate with most systems, but it doesn't offer a wide array of connection ports. The build quality is robust, and the design is simple yet effective, making it easy to use even for those not particularly tech-savvy. It provides solid performance and reliability, making it a good choice for casual listeners or those new to vinyl who want to upgrade from a basic setup.