A phono preamplifier, often called a phono stage, is an electronic 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 further amplification by a stereo receiver or amplifier. In addition to amplification, a phono preamplifier also applies equalization to the signal. This equalization corrects the frequency response of the recording, ensuring that the sound is accurate and balanced. Many modern audio systems include built-in phono preamps, but separate units can offer higher quality sound for audiophiles.