Preamps. Do we really need them?

Passive preamplification can:

- roll off the top end and the bottom end
- limit dynamics
- limit resolution, especially at low volumes
- limit gain

Now there are definite levels of passive preamps. And possibly the absolute best passive preamp that is matched 100% correctly to a given system may be better than an active preamp (maybe any active). But these passives are few and far between (I have yet to hear one). Passive preamps get better and better as the volume control is opened up more and more (as more signal flows through them). I went from passive preamplification to tube active preamplification and it was like a haze was lifted off of the music.

KF

Eldartford, I was just funnin.

Dave

Sogood51...Sometimes, on this site, it's hard to tell the jokes from the serious comments!

Eldartford, even though I was funnin..your answer shows great knowledge. I have therefore placed you name in my little book of people to come to for answers, you are a great asset to this site...and I'm not funnin this time!

Dave

It is my contention that if you have:

1. A source with low output impedance, most made today do
2. A power amp with a high input impedance, many do, especially tube amps
3. cables with low reactance that aren't too long from pre to power amp, I use 1/2 meter Cardas Neutral Reference

there is no way an active stage can do anything but degrade the signal.

I have used and I am using a passive preamp with wonderful results. Great dynamics, superb resolution, plenty of extension on both ends of the frequency spectrum, and I saved a bunch of money not having to buy an expensive preamp.

As suggested, buy a good used unit and try it.