Pre Amp Required? (Phono)

[craaaaaig]

I have recently acquired an old Rega Planar 3 which I have connected to the AUX/PHONO input on my Cambridge Audio A1 Mk1, it sounds a bit lackluster to me and after some googling I've found suggestions I need a pre amp inbetween the devices

Just looking for confirmation that this is the case and will improve sound drastically? And recommendations for a budget unit please!

I have a knackered old no-brand passive sub-woofer I could add in to the equation also but I'd rather not

 

[craaaaaig]

So no difference from adding one? I only use the amp/speakers for my TV which is on another channel via 3.5 > RCA and that is substantially louder and punchier

 

[craaaaaig]

Thanks for the detailed response! I will pop in to RS at the weekend and pick one up new (since the Rega was free )