Enhancing Your Listening Experience Without Breaking the Bank: Fosi Audio Box X5 Phono Preamp Review
Welcome to an exciting new chapter for our community—HiFi Reviews! Over the years, many of you have asked for recommendations and tips on improving your audio setups. Rather than competing with the numerous specialised HiFi sites out there, our goal is to add an extra layer to our existing content, focusing specifically on cost-effective ways to improve your listening experience.
In this first episode, I’m reviewing the Fosi Audio Box X5 Phono Preamp, an affordable yet highly effective addition to any vinyl lover’s audio setup.
First Impressions and Setup
When the Fosi Audio Box X5 arrived, I was initially skeptical. I’m a passionate music fan, but not someone who typically invests heavily in expensive cables or high-end audio accessories. I rely on my ears, and generally, I’ve been satisfied with my current setup—a Technics SL 1500C turntable connected to a Denon AV receiver. So I wondered, could a dedicated phono preamp costing just over £100 really make a noticeable difference?
Setting up the Box X5 was straightforward, with clearly marked inputs for the turntable and outputs to the amplifier. There’s also an adjustable gain switch to accommodate both moving magnet (MM) and moving coil (MC) cartridges, providing excellent flexibility for various setups.
However, an important lesson learned during my setup—avoid using the built-in phono input on your amplifier if you connect this external preamp, as it doubles the amplification and creates distortion. Instead, connect it to a standard input like ‘Aux’ or ‘Game’.
Sound Quality: An Eye-Opening Experience
The results were immediately noticeable. I played the 50th anniversary vinyl remaster of “Dark Side of the Moon” by Pink Floyd, and instantly I noticed a substantial improvement in sound clarity, depth, and overall dynamics. The volume level required on my amplifier dropped significantly, confirming the preamp’s efficiency.
What genuinely surprised me was the level of enhancement for such a modest investment. The soundstage widened, vocals were clearer, and bass response tightened dramatically. Even after several days, this wasn’t just a placebo effect; my records genuinely sounded better.
Final Verdict: Is it Worth It?
Absolutely! For a product priced around £100-130, the Fosi Audio Box X5 provides remarkable value. For the cost of roughly three new vinyl records, you can significantly improve the sound quality of your entire vinyl collection. This device is perfect for both newcomers and seasoned vinyl enthusiasts who want to maximise their listening experience without spending a fortune.
Phil Aston | Now Spinning Magazine
