Forget DAC and all digital for a minute.
Phono amp > Preamp > Power amp > speaker.
All of these can be analog. In fact it’s preferable.
The phono amp is special. It contains equalization circuitry to compensate for the frequency curve needed to cut a record.
The Preamp drives the power amp and allows selection of sources. It can have a DAC built in. The pre and power can be together in an integrated amp.
Phono amp > Preamp > Power amp > speaker.
All of these can be analog. In fact it’s preferable.
The phono amp is special. It contains equalization circuitry to compensate for the frequency curve needed to cut a record.
The Preamp drives the power amp and allows selection of sources. It can have a DAC built in. The pre and power can be together in an integrated amp.