2. amps-preamps
  3. 1256796839

Passive preamp vs. powered

I have a custom made passive pre-amp that I purchased from A-gon some months back for about $150. It only has a volume control and 2 inputs - perfect for my needs.

It sounds excellent...

My question is... what would be the advantage of a much more expensive powered pre-amp? Sure, maybe I would have powered switches and more inputs, but I don't need any. Are there some differences in sound quality that I'm not hearing?
djembeplay
grannyring's avatar
grannyring
6,500 posts
 
Shakey,

Yes they are good and I haved owned several of them and several much better then those you listed - active.

I have owned passives from TRL, BV Audio and Placette.

Your sound preference may lean to the passive route. Great for you! Others will want a different sound, like myself.

Fun for all!
shakeydeal
979 posts
 
Granny,

Yes, you are right. It's all about what makes YOU happy.

However, I have heard passives such as the Placette, the FT Audio LW-1, Mccormack Line Drive and Reference Line Preemineence 2. None of those can hold a candle to the transformer variety. A completely different animal.

Shakey
grannyring's avatar
grannyring
6,500 posts
 
Interesting

Love to do a shootout. What passive do you suggest that is transformer based?

I am near Minneapolis, MN
shakeydeal
979 posts
 
I have owned preamps using the S&B Mark I and II trannies (much preferred the Mark I). I have heard a Sowter TVC, owned a Sonic Euphoria PLC and now have the Bent Audio Tap-x. I would say all of them are very good to excellent.

Shakey
muralman1
1,527 posts
 
The H2O Fire is the only preamp that sounds marvelous on my speakers. It is just starting to turn heads.
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