The Best Preamps 2026

1. AudioControl - 10-Channel Digital Matrix Processor - Black

Compatible with select AudioControl processors or amplifiers; universal mounting; LED indicator; painted metal cover with metal knob

Hear the difference with this AudioControl Matrix digital signal processor. It lets you manipulate and control signals via the computer-interfaced smart app, and it has up to 10 preamp channel outputs for a flexible, powerful setup. This eight-input AudioControl Matrix digital signal processor operates on an expansive 20Hz - 24kHz frequency response.

2. Pro-Ject - Phono Box E Preamplifier - Black

Upgrade your amplifier to accept phono cartridge inputs with this Pro-Ject preamplifier. It plays MM cartridges, and its SMD construction and internal shielding translate into an audiophile experience. This compact Pro-Ject preamplifier tucks easily near your turntable and connects to an existing amplifier via gold-plated sockets that preserve audio quality.

3. AudioControl - 2-Channel Active Line Output Converter and Line Driver - Black

Marantz PM-10 2-Ch Reference Class Integrated Amplifier employs a dual-mono design with separate power supplies for preamplifier and the power amplifiers for a noise-free, dynamic sound quality. This amp can be configured as a stereo integrated amplifier or set up with other PM-10 units for dual or multichannel operation. The latest HDAM-SA3 module supports ultra-high-resolution audio formats

Easily add an aftermarket amplifier to your vehicle’s factory audio system with this 2-Channel Active Line Output Converter and Line Driver by AudioControl. The LC1i converts speaker-level (high-level) audio signals to RCA preamp (low-level) signals so you can install an aftermarket amplifier without replacing your factory radio. This two-channel line output converter and line driver can also be used to retain your vehicle’s OEM amplified audio system when replacing your factory radio.

4. Marantz - AV 10 15.4-Ch Pre Amplifier - Black

The Marantz AV10 15.4 channel Preamplifier is engineered to create the perfect home entertainment system. Your legacy content can now be rendered with cinema-level perfection at 8K/60Hz or at a smooth 4K/120 with 8K pass-through, Dolby Surround, and DTS Neural:X. The Marantz AV 10 delivers video content via 10 8K HDMI ports (7 In/3 Out), with Dolby Vision, HDR10, HLG,4:4:4 Pure Color Sub-Sampling, BT.2020 Color Gamut, eARC support, and 21:9 widescreen support. It is ideal for gaming as well, with QFT and QMS enabling a smooth lag-free gaming experience, and VRR and ALLM eliminating screen tearing. Besides video, the AV 10 delivers amazing audio to your surround sound setup as well. You can set up your surround sound system in Dolby Atmos 9.6.4 or 11.4.4 channel configuration, with Dolby Height Virtualization and DTS Virtual:X eliminating the need for height speakers. Supports Dolby Atmos, IMAX Enhanced, and Auro 3D creating a truly immersive 3D audio experience. You can stream your music from Pandora, Spotify, and TIDAL, and play them wirelessly via HEOS Built-In, Wi-Fi, Airplay 2, or Bluetooth. Setting up the Marantz AV 10 is made easy with Audyssey MultEQ XT32 Technology, and the preamp is easy to use thanks to the new HD graphics user interface. Building upon the Marantz legacy and expertise garnered over the years, the AV 10 proudly carries forward the tradition of excellence in design, both on the inside and on the outside, and exceptional performance.

5. Rotel - RC-1572MKII Stereo Preamplifier - Black

Affordable audio and performance audio converge precisely with Rotel’s RC-1572MKII. Building on the award winning Rotel and Michi technologies this preamplifier includes upgrades to all critical circuits confidently rendering all genre of music.The Analog,digital, wireless Bluetooth, XLR Balanced, iPod USB, PC-USB and Moving Magnet Phono stage inputs all benefit from the unit’s ultra-quiet design methods and compliment of audiophile grade acoustically tuned components.

6. Rotel - RC-1572MKII Stereo Preamplifier - Silver

Affordable audio and performance audio converge precisely with Rotel’s RC-1572MKII. Building on the award winning Rotel and Michi technologies this preamplifier includes upgrades to all critical circuits confidently rendering all genre of music.The Analog,digital, wireless Bluetooth, XLR Balanced, iPod USB, PC-USB and Moving Magnet Phono stage inputs all benefit from the unit’s ultra-quiet design methods and compliment of audiophile grade acoustically tuned components.

7. Devialet - Arch - White

All things music, connected

Arch is a high-quality phono stage that transforms your record player into an exceptional vinyl experience.

8. Rotel - RC-1590MKII Stereo Preamplifier - Black

The RC-1590MKII is a reference level preamplifier delivering an unprecedented level of acoustic audio performance.This preamplifier includes support for all popular source inputs including analog, digital, PC-USB with MQA, wireless aptX HD and AAC Bluetooth streaming, XLR Balanced, iPod USB and a Moving Magnet Phono stage. The dual, in-house manufactured, toroidal transformers isolate power to all critical analog and digital circuits delivering an ultra-low noise floor and reduced distortion.A premium Texas Instruments DAC with supporting acoustically tuned audio circuits ensure the RC-1590MKII sets a new standard for Rotel products.

9. Rotel - MICHI P5 SERIES 2 PRE-AMPLFIER - Black

Discover the pinnacle of performance with the Michi P5 Series 2 Preamplifier featuring dual 8-Channel ESS SABRE DACs rendering music that envelopes you with every note.

10. Rotel - RC-1590MKII Stereo Preamplifier - Silver

The RC-1590MKII is a reference level preamplifier delivering an unprecedented level of acoustic audio performance.This preamplifier includes support for all popular source inputs including analog, digital, PC-USB with MQA, wireless aptX HD and AAC Bluetooth streaming, XLR Balanced, iPod USB and a Moving Magnet Phono stage. The dual, in-house manufactured, toroidal transformers isolate power to all critical analog and digital circuits delivering an ultra-low noise floor and reduced distortion.A premium Texas Instruments DAC with supporting acoustically tuned audio circuits ensure the RC-1590MKII sets a new standard for Rotel products.