I’m 33 and just learned the true leaning of a phono preamp
I’ve been collecting vinyl since 10th grade. I am not an audiophile by any means and even low tech like audio hookups make me annoyed and sleepy when I can’t figure it out. I’ve had an old insignia audio receiver since I started collecting that has always supported my record player along with all replacement cartridges I’ve supplied.
Recently I bought a grado 3 cartridge and it was when I tried installing it and playing something through my insignia that I learned it does NOT have a built in phono preamp. I have a U-turn turntable and have typically used ortofon 5e for cartridges in the past but I have never had an issue with sound amplification until the grado. I replaced my insignia with an older receiver that does have a built in phono input and it plays like a dream.
I guess I’m just sayin I’m an idiot is all. Happy listening