Phono stages aren’t the most glamorous item in a hi-fi chain. But if you want to hear your cherished record player at its best, a good one is essential. We’ve heard few better than Luxman’s EQ-500, regardless of price.

Usually phono stages are nondescript little boxes, but not this one. Luxman has built the EQ-500 into full-sized casework and packed it full of toggle switches, dials and signal-level meters.

It’s hard to think of a more feature-packed alternative, and the majority of these features are very useful too.