Overview

The Arcam rPhono is a dedicated phono preamplifier built to add high-quality turntable support to any amplifier or receiver, whether it lacks a phono input entirely or you want better performance than a built-in stage. It supports both moving magnet (MM) and moving coil (MC) cartridges, with independent gain and loading options tuned to each type.

Moving coil users get precision impedance matching from 50 to 550Ω using continuously variable trimmers rather than fixed steps, while moving magnet users can select from four input capacitance settings (120, 220, 340, or 440pF) to match their cartridge's specifications. A defeatable low-frequency rumble filter cuts warp- and pressing-related noise without touching the rest of the signal.

Inside, a multi-layer PCB with an optimised ground plane and multiple individually regulated, low-noise power supplies keep the signal path clean from input to output, backed by precision RIAA equalisation for accurate tonal balance across the whole record.

Simcoe Audio Video Insight

For anyone running a turntable through a receiver or amplifier with a mediocre (or missing) phono stage, the rPhono is a straightforward, cost-effective fix. Because it handles both MM and MC cartridges with proper gain and loading adjustment for each, it works whether you're just getting into vinyl or running a higher-end moving coil setup, and it's compact enough to tuck onto a shelf without adding another full-size component to the rack.

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Why the Arcam rPhono Stands Out

Buyer's Guide

Who It's For

• Turntable owners whose amplifier or receiver lacks a phono input, or whose built-in phono stage falls short.
• Vinyl listeners using moving coil cartridges who need precise impedance matching rather than fixed loading steps.
• Anyone wanting a compact, shelf-friendly phono stage that doesn't compromise on RIAA accuracy or noise performance.

How It Compares

Most built-in phono stages on amplifiers and receivers use a single fixed-gain circuit that treats every cartridge the same way. The rPhono instead gives moving magnet and moving coil cartridges their own dedicated gain and loading adjustments, making it a better match any time your cartridge's needs are more specific than a built-in stage can handle.