Does a passive preamp with transformers so that its impedence can be matched with an amplifier have the potential to provide better sonics than a line preamp? I have a Simaudio Celeste preamp and a Harman Kardon Citation 7.1 amplifier. Lynne
In theory I totally agree with you Aleko. However, when using my ears as a guide, I've consistantly found that active preamps sound more musical to me. IMS, IMHO, YMMV.
Eldartford, thanks. Of course your correct. What I should have posted in regards to Aleko's post is that an amp with a low voltage input may permit more noise to enter.
Eldartford, I wanted to say that the amplifier is very sensible so I have probably said it wrongly. So I should have probably said high input sensitivity. I wanted to say that the power amplifier needs low level signal say 1V rms to reach its full output. Unsound, thanks for the info. I have used a passive pre-amplifier and not heard noise when using the Pass Aleph 3. Also, I have thought that the level of noise depends on the power amplifier circuitry and not the input sensitivity. For example I have heard noise coming from the Air Tight 211 amplifier. I just want to add that this was the only flaw otherwise the sound was wonderful in all aspects. Then I read the Stereophile review which confirmed that. It was not mentioned there for the reason to be the input sensitivity (which as far as I am aware is set at 1V to allow use with a CD output directly). But now you make me think the reason for the noise is exactly this. On the other hand the Wyetech Topaz reportedly does not generate any noise due to the circuit - choke filter and so on and still input sensitivity is set at somewhere this level - 0.6 V if I recall correctly.
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