A phono preamp is a device that amplifies the weak electrical signal produced by a turntable when playing vinyl records. This signal is too low to be processed by standard audio equipment, so the phono preamp boosts it to a level suitable for a receiver or amplifier. In addition to amplification, a phono preamp applies equalization to the signal, correcting the frequency response to match the RIAA standard. This ensures that the sound quality is clear and balanced, allowing listeners to enjoy the full richness of their vinyl records.