Whether you want to throw a party with the latest records or are simply looking to invest in a quality piece of technology, an amplifier will enhance your audio game. And if you’re a vinyl aficionado, or even more so if you’re a beginner, getting the best amplifier for a turntable is an absolute necessity.

There are several features to look for when buying your optimal amplifier. Firstly, it largely depends on whether you have a preamplifier built into your turntable (preamplifiers are usually found in all-in-one turntables). If you do, then you will need to get a power amplifier. If not, then a main (integrated) amplifier or a combination of a preamplifier and an amplifier will be the best solution. We have taken all of this into account, so whatever your needs, you will find something in our list. Other characteristics we looked at were the frequency response of an amplifier, which refers to the range of frequencies it amplifies, impedance and total harmonic distortion, among others.

The time invested in our extensive research through various sources has provided you with an in-depth review of the best turntable amplifiers. This article also includes a comparison table of all the products we’ve reviewed, a buying guide and an FAQ section to ensure you have a comprehensive knowledge of the product in question.

Pyle Home Power Amplifier System

When it comes to incredible, high-quality sound, you absolutely need a power amplifier. These devices are needed in a home audio system to complete your audio setup and produce the wonderful sound that will bring your home to life and let you have a blast. There are different categories, but the Pyle Home Audio power amplifier system is our first choice. This home audio power amplifier system has many impressive features that we love.

Pyle makes some of the highest rated power amplifiers on the market, and this model is no exception. Like the best models on the market, it is made with high quality materials that ensure a long life. It has a compact design and will contribute significantly to the overall sound quality.

This model is very versatile and can be used for different settings. All of its features come at an affordable price and offer incredible value for money.

This amplifier is a two-channel amplifier with an output power of 120W at 4 ohms. Other features that are sure to please include a pair of level controls, an LED output level display, useful and highly responsive EQ controls and connect-and-stream functionality.

During use, it can get a little hot. Fortunately, there is an air-cooling function to prevent overheating; although it is robustly built, it comes with a one-year warranty. So if you have any problems during that time, you can replace or repair it at no extra cost.

This excellent unit does not have a high-powered headphone output. Given its price, we would have expected it to come with this option.

Yamaha A-S501BL

The Yamaha A-S501BL is an amplifier of durable construction. It’s solid, solid to the touch, and will probably last you for years. In addition to its excellent performance for this price, it also has many useful features.

Attention to detail is important, from the remote control to the finish of the unit. This amplifier definitely gives us a retro, old-school vibe and somehow looks like the best vintage amplifiers of the past.

The design itself says it all. Unlike its counterparts, the buyer’s intuition was overwhelmingly in favour of the Yamaha’s longevity.

Why? Its range of features such as its 5-level line inputs, 0.5W standby power consumption and moving magnet phono stage bear this out. The only thing it lacks is a USB function to connect to a PC, but that’s not an obstacle for many Yamaha fans, as people more often report using it with a TV, Blu-ray player or, of course, a turntable. Another small drawback is that there is no built-in Bluetooth, but you can easily remedy that by adding an external unit, the YBA-11.

The unit also differs from its predecessor in that it has digital inputs and optical and coaxial connections. Another feature that the Yamaha A-S501BL boasts is its weight and feel. Buyers of Yamaha’s predecessor complained about its bulkiness. It seems that the new and improved version has taken this into account, with the new model receiving more positive feedback for its slim and bright balance. The sound has definitely improved and is clearer and more even.

Yamaha R-S202BL

The Yamaha R-S202BL stereo receiver prioritises stereo sound with simple connectivity. It has RCA inputs and outputs installed, as well as a headphone output. This allows recordings to be transferred to external devices such as a CD.

Bear in mind, however, that this is a power amplifier, so it is not possible to connect your turntable directly to it. Either the turntable must have a phono preamplifier, or you must buy a completely separate one.

In terms of design, this amplifier has an ideal circuit layout due to its positioning. The power transformer is located next to the power amplifier. This reduces power loss while improving the power supply for higher output. It also comes with an IR remote control system and produces up to 100W/channel at 8 Ohms. In addition, there is plenty of space to store up to a maximum of 40 AM and FM stations which can be carefully selected from the receiver itself or from the remote control.

Another highlight of this amp is its simplistic design which allows buyers to easily locate the buttons and knobs on the unit. It also offers Bluetooth functionality to stream music services from multiple devices. This means you can easily connect your Bluetooth deck to avoid having to deal with all those countless cords and wires.

As an added bonus, this amplifier features an advanced power saving system. It converts to standby mode after a certain amount of time and allows for a setting of 2, 4, 8 or 12 hours.

Kinter K2020A+

Integrated amplifiers are the future of home audio, and the Kinter K2020A+ is without doubt one of the best options you can find right now. It is the most compatible option of all the models we reviewed.

This compact option has up to four different types of controls. These are tone, volume, treble and bass. With the controls and design, you’ll find the type of output you want.

One of the best things we like about this option is the type of input it offers. You can connect the 3.5mm input to it. The implication is that there is almost no audio device that you can’t connect this amplifier to. This makes it the most compatible option we have looked at.

The connectors are of high quality and are expected to last a long time. As the connectors are gold-plated, the resistance is very low and the risk of losing signals is reduced.

Of all the options we considered, these offer probably the best type of connectors.

Like many of the high-quality options, this model is easy to install. The sound performance is also excellent.

Grace Digital GDI-BTAR512N

If you are inseparable from Bluetooth technology, then you should definitely consider this amplifier. These built-in amplifiers are the next step in your music journey. So ditch those headphones and use the Bluetooth function of your music playing device to get the best sound from these Grace brand amplifiers.

The set includes a preamp and an amplifier. They come in a compact form and weigh only one kilo each. The result is an excellent package that will fit into your music setup without taking up much space.

Despite its impressive performance, this unit is quite energy efficient. It consumes only 1.7 watts in standby and a maximum of 2 watts at medium volume. So you can enjoy your music without your energy bill being too high.

In terms of performance, it’s one of the best at this price. You can use it for a long time at high volumes without any problems ; Expect a rich, warm sound when using this amplifier for your music.

You also have seven levels of volume control.

If there is a downside, it would be that this model does not have aptX streaming like the more expensive models. Other than that, there’s not much to complain about with this device.

One year warranty, AC adapter, audio cable and remote control included, Bluetooth compatible, music streaming up to 36 feet.

What is an amplifier and why do you need one for your turntable?

An amplifier is essentially a device that provides increased strength to a signal. It increases the level of signals, current and voltage. It is part of most audio equipment that uses wireless communication and broadcasting.

To help you understand the need for an amplifier for your turntable, it is essential that we discuss the types and roles of an amplifier.

There are two types of amplifiers for a turntable: amplifiers with a built-in preamp, called integrated amplifiers, and amplifiers without a preamp, also called power amplifiers or stereo receivers.

Fortunately, most modern turntables are equipped with a preamplifier. These work with the signal from the turntable cartridge, amplifying and equalising it.

For turntables without a built-in preamplifier, you can choose from the many options presented in this article.

What makes the best turntable amplifier?

Choosing the right amplifier for your turntable is no easy task. That said, there are some key details such as output power, number of channels, impedance, frequency response, total harmonic distortion and auto-sleep options of an amplifier that you should pay attention to when looking to buy an amplifier that will give you the most bang for your buck.

Below you will find everything that makes a turntable amplifier stand out.

Output power and number of channels

The output power that an amplifier can produce is the most accurate representation of an amplifier’s performance. The US Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) has devised a uniform system for classifying the power rating of amplifiers and other stereo components. This system introduces root mean square (RMS), which is the average power that an amplifier can deliver without damage.

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Having explained the importance of power output in investing in the right amplifier, the number of channels is also a critical factor. In simple terms, the channels of an amplifier represent the number of speakers that the amplifier is compatible with. For example, a 4-channel amplifier is capable of handling 4-speaker systems. A 5-channel amplifier, on the other hand, is capable of driving four speakers and a subwoofer.

Impedance, frequency response, THD

Most amplifiers work with 4, 8 and 16 ohm resistance speakers. However, for optimum performance and results, it is recommended that you choose an amplifier that correctly matches your speakers.

Matching an amplifier to the correct impedance of your system can be a complete game changer. Wondering why we say this? Consider this. If the total impedance of your speaker is low, the power delivered to the speaker will be higher and it can eventually overload the system and damage your amplifier. On the other hand, if the impedance is too high, the power delivered to the speakers will be too low.

In addition, we suggest that you pay close attention to the frequency response of all devices, as it varies. The 20 Hz to 40 kHz range of the Pyle Home Audio power amplifier system gives very different results from the 20 Hz to 20 kHz range of the Kinter K2020A+.

Additional Features

These days, we’re all inclined to take a hands-free approach when it comes to our technology. The auto-sleep option is very convenient for people who don’t want to monitor the activity of their amplifier. The Yamaha R-S202, Yamaha A-S501BL, or Grace Digital GDI-BTAR512N would all be appropriate choices here.

Individual features are also important. Not all amplifiers have ideal infinite bandwidth or zero common mode gain. Always be sure to ask for feedback on the devices you intend to buy.

How do I connect an amplifier to a turntable and headphones?

Connecting an amplifier to a turntable is a fairly simple process.

There are two methods, each for the option of installing the preamplifier. If an external preamplifier is required, then a set of cables (most likely RCA cables) will need to be connected to your audio system. If the preamplifier is built-in, then proceed by attaching the ground wire of the turntable (if necessary) to the ground terminal of the phono preamplifier.

To connect your amplifier to your headphones, connect the power supply to your device by plugging it into a stereo EP plug (for example, the MXP-38 (Jack) to EP converter), then simply connect your headphones to the headphone amplifier.

Our verdict

Our final verdict comes down to a set of the most important factors in choosing your device. The Pyle Home Audio power amplifier system and the Yamaha R-S202BL stereo receiver are ranked in the top tier for several reasons. Firstly, both amplifiers are known to be specialists in one area, whether it’s the outstanding sound system of the Onkyo or the versatile connectivity options of the Yamaha R-S202BL. As a result, we chose the Pyle Home Audio power amplifier system as the best integrated turntable amplifier, narrowly beating out the Yamaha A-S501BL in terms of performance and consistency. Although the latter can be extended to include Bluetooth compatibility. The best power amplifier is therefore the Yamaha R-S202BL.

Finally, for users looking for the ultimate value-added factor, the choice of the most economical device will have a major influence. If you’re willing to forget about Bluetooth issues, or if this type of technology is simply not a deciding factor, then the Kinter K2020A+, priced at $39.88, may be for you.