Is there really a difference between a cheap Pyle preamp and a good one? If so what preamp should I buy?

I'm a total beginner and I'm just building my first sound system because I have vinyls but just one of those ugly cheap vitrola portable turntables. I don't have much idea about this, but my friend said don't buy the Pyle p444 because it is horrible, so what preamp should I buy as a starter instead??