2. cables
  3. 1221959447

XLR vs. Phono Cables

I am in the process of purchasing a new phono preamp -- the reason being is that my turntable is a distance from my preamp and I need a slight boost of signal. The wires must travel about 12 feet from my turnatble behind a television set to my preamp. This is probably not ideal, but I really don't have a choice.

Earlier I posted recommendations for phono preamps in the $500 to $1,500 price range. I received some very nice feedback. Some of the phono preamps have XLR support, while others only support standard phono cables.

Would I be better off buying a phono preamp with XLR outputs, or will standard phono cables be ok for my purpose?

Thank you.
-Greg
fremonthills

Showing 2 responses by fremonthills

fremonthills OP
15 posts
 
The preamp that I will be using is a McIntosh C2200 with both XLR and RCA inputs. Everything that is connected to it has XLR, so I am motivated to pick up a phono preamp with XLR outputs. There are three that look good:

PS Audio GCPH ($1000)
Aqvox 2CI MKII ($1400)
Simaudio Moon LP5.3 ($1400)

All of these have been very well reviewed.

-Greg
fremonthills OP
15 posts
 
Perhaps I didn't make this clear, but the phono preamp will be placed right next to the turntable. The long cable will connect the phono preamp to the actual preamp. I believe this is the recommended way to do it.

TT -- 1' --> Phono Preamp ------ 12' -----> Preamp

What I'm wondering is whether XLR is preferred over standard phono cables for this 12 foot length of cable.

Sorry for the confusion.
-Greg
More to discover