NAD PP 4 - Digital Phono/USB Preamplifier

NAD PP 4 Digital Phono USB Preamplifier

The NAD PP 4 Digital Phono USB Preamplifier is a high-performance phono preamp with USB built for listeners who want true vinyl fidelity now—and an easy path to digital archiving later. It delivers low-noise gain for both Moving Magnet (MM) and Moving Coil (MC) cartridges with accurate RIAA equalization, preserving detail, dynamics, and tonal balance from your turntable. A dedicated USB 16-bit/48kHz output and adjustable recording level make it simple to convert LPs (and other analog sources) into clean digital files on a PC or Mac. Add the line input for cassette decks and other gear, plus included VinylStudio Lite software for track splitting and file organization, and the PP 4 becomes a compact hub for preserving and enjoying an entire analog library.

What It's Good At:

• Revealing the texture and detail in vinyl with low-noise amplification and precise RIAA equalization
• Supporting both MM and MC cartridges for broad turntable compatibility
• Converting vinyl (and tapes) to digital with USB 16-bit/48kHz PCM output
• Dialing in clean transfers using the adjustable record level control
• Digitizing more than records with a dedicated line input for cassettes and analog sources
• Reducing clutter and noise with a compact chassis and included shielded USB cable

NAD PP 4 Full Specifications:

• MC (Moving Coil)
  • Input Impedance (R and C): 100 Ohm + 180pF
  • Gain at 1kHz: 58dB
  • Input sensitivity (ref. 200mV output): 0.38mV
  • Signal to noise (A weighted, with cartridge connected): 78dB
  • Input overload (20Hz/1kHz/20kHz): 0.65/6.5/60mV
  • Rated Distortion (THD 20Hz - 20kHz): <0.03%
  • RIAA response accuracy: ±0.3dB
  • Infrasonic filter: -14dB (5Hz)
  • Digital output (USB): 16 bit linear PCM
  • Sampling frequency: 48kHz
  • Dynamic range: 86dB
• MM (Moving Magnet)
  • Input Impedance (R and C): 47 kilohm + 200pF
  • Gain at 1kHz: 35dB
  • Input sensitivity (ref. 200mV output): 5mV
  • Signal to noise (A weighted, with cartridge connected): 76dB
  • Input overload (20Hz/1kHz/20kHz): 10/100/900mV
  • Rated Distortion (THD 20Hz - 20kHz): <0.03%
  • RIAA response accuracy: ±0.3dB
  • Infrasonic filter: -14dB (5Hz)
  • Digital output (USB): 16 bit linear PCM
  • Sampling Frequency: 48kHz
  • Dynamic range: 89dB
  • Record Level: 0dB to -6dB
  • Gross Dimensions excl. Power supply (W x H x D): 135 x 49 x 72mm (5 5/16 x 1 15/16 x 2 7/8")
• Line In
  • Input Impedance: 47 kilohm + 180pF
  • Rated Distortion (THD 20Hz - 20kHz): <0.008%
  • Signal to noise, A weighted: -115dB
  • Maximum Input Level: 5.3V
• Line Out
  • Output Impedance: 100 Ohm
  • Maximum Output Level: 5.3V

NAD PP 4 Q&A:

Will the NAD PP 4 work with my turntable cartridge (MM or MC)?

Yes. The PP 4 supports both Moving Magnet (MM) and Moving Coil (MC) cartridges, making it compatible with a wide range of turntables.

Can I digitize vinyl records to my computer with this phono preamp?

Yes. The PP 4 includes a USB digital output that records in 16-bit linear PCM at 48kHz for straightforward vinyl-to-digital transfers.

Does it include software for splitting tracks and organizing recordings?

Yes. VinylStudio Lite is included to help split tracks, add filenames, and organize albums into a clean digital library on PC or Mac.

Can I digitize cassette tapes or other analog sources too?

Yes. A dedicated line input lets you connect cassette decks and other analog devices for archiving beyond vinyl.

How do I avoid distortion or low recording levels when capturing audio?

Use the adjustable record level control (0dB to -6dB) to match the source and optimize clean digital capture.

Does the PP 4 reduce rumble or unwanted low-frequency noise?

Yes. It includes an infrasonic filter rated at -14dB (5Hz) to help limit unwanted low-frequency movement.

What kind of sound quality should I expect from the phono stage?

The PP 4 is designed for low noise and accurate RIAA equalization (±0.3dB), helping preserve clarity, balance, and detail.

How compact is it for placement in a hi-fi setup?

It’s easy to position in modern systems, with compact dimensions of 135 x 49 x 72mm (excluding the power supply).

NAD PP 4 Downloads:

NAD PP 4 Data Sheet