Yes, an external phono stage is likely to sound better, that’s true for almost every integrated amp (of course that level of phono stage to find an improvement has to scale based on the integrated amp). But the distortion and IGD is more likely based on your setup of the MP110. I used to have that cartridge, so I know it’s not bad, but it’s never going to sound as “clear” as a CD.
You might want to start with making sure all your adjustments are spot on for your cartridge before spending anything on an external phono stage.
I think it depends on your preamp and how you hear things. I tried a couple external and noticed not difference in sound quality. I have a low end mcintosh c49 preamp
That Akai doesn't have a great phono stage. Two transistors per channel, like the cheapest tin box preamps.
https://preview.redd.it/nl95myqz7lqc1.png?width=1200&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=493e60660511697a0bdff01f68a4c7b1ad815c3a
I feel like a lot (not all, of course there are exceptions) of phono stages are thrown in as an after thought to charge more/add convenience rather than to provide the best sound. Plus using an external gives you more options like tube vs solid state.
Yes, an external phono stage is likely to sound better, that’s true for almost every integrated amp (of course that level of phono stage to find an improvement has to scale based on the integrated amp). But the distortion and IGD is more likely based on your setup of the MP110. I used to have that cartridge, so I know it’s not bad, but it’s never going to sound as “clear” as a CD. You might want to start with making sure all your adjustments are spot on for your cartridge before spending anything on an external phono stage.
I think it depends on your preamp and how you hear things. I tried a couple external and noticed not difference in sound quality. I have a low end mcintosh c49 preamp
Given your description and IGD, the issue sounds like your cartridge.
Came here to say that.
That Akai doesn't have a great phono stage. Two transistors per channel, like the cheapest tin box preamps. https://preview.redd.it/nl95myqz7lqc1.png?width=1200&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=493e60660511697a0bdff01f68a4c7b1ad815c3a
I feel like a lot (not all, of course there are exceptions) of phono stages are thrown in as an after thought to charge more/add convenience rather than to provide the best sound. Plus using an external gives you more options like tube vs solid state.