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Passive Preamp for Atmaspheres?

Is anyone running a passive preamp with atmaspheres? I'm about to purchase an Atma s-30 and am trying to decide what preamp to purchase. My original plan was a good affordable preamp such as the Eastern Electric minimax or Juicymusic Merlin.

The rest of my system consists of an Arcam DV88p which I use for redbook cd playback, and Soliloquy 8.2s speakers, which are about 91db with 7.2 ohms minimum impedance. My listening room is relatively small at around 11 by 13 although it opens into a small dining area and kitchen which is separated by a 4 ft. high wall. I am currently using 18w/ch integrated monoblocks and generally play them at about 1 o'clock on the volume dial, so I don't think I need much power at all.

Any recommendations for passive preamps or am I still better off with an active pre?
mpignone
entrope
482 posts
 
I am using a Reference Line 1A with my Atma-Sphere M60 MkII.3's. The result has been very pleasing.

Primary improvements are detail, wide open staging, and neutrality.

My source is a Meridian 508.24, cables to the passive are Zu Warmouths and to the amps are Tekline TL-500's.

unsound
7,329 posts
 
I don't know the answer. I suspect that the Atmasphere's input impedance while not absolutely ideal is more than adequate for a passive. I don't know the sensitivity of the s-30, but I suspect at these low power levels it should be OK too. Of course, your source components and cables will have some bearing. In this regard the Arcam should OK. I'm not personaly familiar with most of the gear you have or are contemplating, but, from what I understand the tube pre's you are considering may sound very different than a passive. Sorry, I can't offer any real concrete advise. Good luck. BTW, Your system appears to have really good potential.
mcfarland
356 posts
 
I ran my A-S M60's through a Melos SHA 1 line stage (single ended) and the sound was good. Ralph Karsten at A-S strongly recommends a balanced pre-amp design in order to acheive the best that his amps can put out. So, due to cost restraints, I opted for an Audio Experience Balanced line stage. The difference was truely remarkable. As a result of my own experience (as well as the designer's recommendations) I strongly urge you to explore true balanced pre-amp designs, you will be happy you did. Happy Listening,
clearsound
31 posts
 
Disclaimer, I work with Superphon preamps...that said, Superphon preamps by Stan Warren are available with or without gain, active super clean sounding preamp... might want to look in to these here on Audiogon Rev III model is the current and best version now being handmade made after extensive research and testing by Stan Warren. I would check the parameters the amp manufacturer sayd his amps want to see from the preamp to make sure ahead of time you have the correct match. Superphon.com
Best with the music...
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