Preamps

There were just too many recording where I really didn’t want the band in the room because the mastering sucked.

It shouldn’t be too hard to set the system up so when good recordings are played it goes source direct to poweramp, and you use the sources volume control.
But when bad recordings are played the source goes through an active preamp using it volume control that de-focuses them and makes them more listenable.

What’s needed is a source/preamp switcher to the poweramp/s.

Source direct outputs have to be disconnected from the amp inputs, and re-directed to the preamp inputs, and the preamp outputs then connected to the amps inputs. All done powered up with just one flick of a switch without any clicks, pops or bangs.

Cheers George

@itsjustme Very good advice.  Not figuring that out probably accounts for a majority of the constant component switching audiophiles undertake.  Having said that, it's something hard to do without experience.

Virtually all tube preamps are ‘not’ designed to drive a main and secondary amp(subwoofer). ARC addresses this on their website. I have a friend that has looked far and wide for for a duo amp driving tube pre and i believe vtl turned up as satisfactory but at a price. of course

itsjustme,

"I think step #1 is to identify what you think the weaknesses of the Rowland are, and /or what you want further improved.
Honestly with out that its a crap shoot/"

I submit many people on Audiogon, not all, make comments about components that they haven't actually listened to or heard in a familiar system. Part of my journey is knowledge based. It isn't about a perceived weakness in the Corus, but how does the Jeff Rowland Corus preamp compare to similarly priced preamps in the context of my system. I hear a lot of people say Rowland preamps aren't good. I recently went through a similar journey with my speakers and DAC. After listening to several speakers and DACs I'm completely satisfied with my speakers and DAC. I would be a fool to just sell my Corus without listening to other preamps. I will have the Esoteric C-02X preamp on Wednesday and I plan on listening to the Emm Labs preamp. For better or worse I'll be sure to post my findings. 

VAC will do phono, sub, by bypass. I love mine.