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Phono preamp vs no phono preamp

I have a Kenwood KA-701 with 2 phono inputs. 1. Do I need a phono preamp? 2. If the answer is yes or maybe I would consider buying the Schiit Mani and would be hooking it up to a Project dc carbon.  3. What input on the Kenwood would I use?

Thank you
128x128johnmarzy
roberjerman
4,319 posts
 
The KA-701 has a phono stage with 2 inputs. Sensitivity is 2.5 mv. It will work well with MM and HOMC cartridges. No need for an external phono stage. Use it as is - it will sound fine!
roberjerman
4,319 posts
 
Use either phono input. Just make sure you have a ground wire from your TT connected to the ground terminal on the back. For a cartridge I'd recommend a high-output mc - Dynavector or Hana.
johnmarzy's avatar
johnmarzy OP
29 posts
 
Thank you for your advice. For clarity, I have a Project DC Carbon with a stock Ortofon Red cartridge/stylus.
noromance's avatar
noromance
9,821 posts
 
Red is a high output moving magnet and will work fine. If you do buy an external phono pre, wire its output into Aux not into Phono.
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