You need three functions besides speakers and TT.
1. Phono stage to boost v. low voltage signal from cartridge and apply "RIAAA equalization" to compensate for frquency response anomalies in recording process.
2. Line stage/input switching to select the proper source boost it to "line level", and control volume.
3. Amplifier to boost line level signal to speaker level.
You will need a box or boxes with functions 1, 2, and 3.
Pre-amplifiers provide at least #2, some also have the phono stage. They require a separate amplifier, #3.
Integrated amps have at least 2 and 3, but some also have #1, the phono stage. They will not require an outboard amp.
Receivers are basically an integrated amp plus an AM/FM tuner. They also may or may not have a phono stage. They will not require an outboard amp. Most modern receivers also have digital signal and surround sound processing and video switching that are not necessary for an analog stereo (2 channel) set up.
1. Phono stage to boost v. low voltage signal from cartridge and apply "RIAAA equalization" to compensate for frquency response anomalies in recording process.
2. Line stage/input switching to select the proper source boost it to "line level", and control volume.
3. Amplifier to boost line level signal to speaker level.
You will need a box or boxes with functions 1, 2, and 3.
Pre-amplifiers provide at least #2, some also have the phono stage. They require a separate amplifier, #3.
Integrated amps have at least 2 and 3, but some also have #1, the phono stage. They will not require an outboard amp.
Receivers are basically an integrated amp plus an AM/FM tuner. They also may or may not have a phono stage. They will not require an outboard amp. Most modern receivers also have digital signal and surround sound processing and video switching that are not necessary for an analog stereo (2 channel) set up.