(PHONOgraph input) A socket on an amplifier or receiver that accepts signals from an analog turntable. The phono input circuit boosts the signal and provides the RIAA equalization necessary to restore the original sound. See phono preamp and USB turntable.
Is phono better than LINE?
Firstly, a PHONO signal is much weaker than a LINE signal. A PHONO signal is typically 0.005 Volt and a LINE signal is typically 0.3 Volt. Secondly, the lower tones (bass) of a PHONO signal is significantly reduced (RIAA equalized) while this is not the case for a LINE signal.