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China, Beijing
1 Level
474 Review
0 Karma

Review on Pyle Phono Turntable Preamp - Compact Audio Phonograph Preamplifier with RCA Input, RCA Output & Low Noise Operation, Powered by 12V DC Adapter - PP999, Black by Jennifer Jenkins

Revainrating 5 out of 5

I would say this is the PERFECT choice for people who have got their hands on it.

I am writing this review on the same day that I am retiring my Pyle PP999 phono preamp. Only now did I realize what a gem this little guy really is. First, let's get the obvious out of the way - this is entry-level when it comes to phono preamps. You don't look at that when you approach an audiophile. But for the aspiring (or awakening) vinyl enthusiast of modest means who needs a phono stage, the Pyle PP999 will serve you well if you feel like going further with vinyl. I would say this is the PERFECT choice for humans. who somehow got their hands on a turntable and just want to dip their toes in the water to get started. At $15, this offers great sound quality for the price. This is a fantastic value in the $15-20 price range. Use this with a pair of Edifier R1280T powered bookshelf speakers, and you can have this turntable spin a few tunes for $115 (the R1280T is only recommended for bedrooms, offices, or small dens). The sound quality on it is very good. Not good. Not good. Just really good. Operation is extremely simple. It's small, slightly larger than a deck of cards, and very easy to hide somewhere. I attached it with Velcro to the back of my closet and completely out of sight. The build quality is excellent for the price, the solid metal body and the very secure connections. Even after taking the case apart (I said I would remove it) I still couldn't get the connectors to wiggle on the board. I'm sure these little guys could hit hard if I hit him. The power plug is an outlet that may take up additional space on the power strip - FYI only. Bottom line: for the price of a decent lunch, this preamp is a very good option if you're somewhere where money really counts. When I unplugged my Pyle PP999 today to replace it with an upgrade I realized it had paid for itself many times over as it allowed me to go back to vinyl at an affordable price after I had my turntable taken from the camp where he stood 17 years. Having a turntable and already having the Edifier speakers mentioned above (their dual inputs allow dual function between my PC and TT) I was able to enjoy my collection again at an extremely affordable price. It's worked the entire time I've used it without a single issue or problem and I can't recommend it highly enough if you want something very affordable, well built and with good sound.

Pros
  • Free for educational purposes
Cons
  • Not sure