How do you add remote control to a preamp, here's how.

The problem is you now have a cheap alps pot and a second set of interconnects in the circuit. You are definitely changing the sound, but if you are ok with that, fine. It’s not a novel idea, it’s been done many times. But remember, the volume control of a preamp is one of, if not the most, important part of the design. You don’t want to cheap out on that.

ozzy62, you make a good point. however, the parts used including the RCA inputs, the Alps pot, are imported from Japan, at least that's what the manufacturer states. But I'm listening very carefully to the results and my initial impressions are positive. But is the overall sound quality maintained by the active preamp, time will tell. If there is a slight degradation of sound then that could be the trade off by having the convenience of remote control through a passive preamp. But so far so good. No this is not a new idea but a reminder how this could be done.

If you like it, that's all that matters. But compare two passive preamps, one using an ALPS pot and the other using this high quality khozmo ladder type volume control. There will be a distinct difference.

Khozmo 64 step ladder attenuator

I do a similar thing with a Schiit Kara. It's volume control is a resistor ladder so no pot. Wherever I set the volume it's just adding a couple of resistors to the path.