Single input Line-Stage Pre-amp

JAX2,

Per my suggestions, just because they are inexpensive doesn't mean they aren't good! Why spend big bucks if you don't need to. BTW, the Dodd is pretty good, using the circuitry from the $3500 Melos that Gary Dodd bought the rights to. Also, the Space-Tech. has gotten good reviews and has been compared to $3000-5000 units. I have not heard it personally.

I also use SET amps. For my single souce needs, I don't use a pre-amp at all. I use a Resolution Audio Opus 21 CD player w/built-in volume control. At $3500 list, it does a great job for CD playback and pre-amplification.

I have a Supratek Sauvignon tube linestage that was built to order with one set inputs and one set of outputs. All Supratek gear is built to order and like yourself, I only have one source and I wanted my pre to be as transparent as possible. Visit the "preamp deal of the century" thread for info. The supratek website is www.supratek.biz.

Reubent- I agree with you regarding expense... I just wanted to make it clear that budget was not my main criterium as much was simplicity and performance. All of the passive solutions I've ever heard seem to be a bit flat sounding in the systems I've heard them in. I tried one many years ago and didn't like it at all, but then I've never tried one in my present systems. I should also clarify that this solution is not for my home SET system. I'm very happy with the Cary there. This is something I am considering for my work system to try to keep it simple and eliminate the large box that is currently my pre there. Sorry I should have listed that system here with my question (an Audiogon Faux Pax):

Naim CD5 + Naim HiCap
ARC LS2B Great Northern Sound Modified (Damn fine Pre, but I only use a single input, that input is not balanced [unable to take advantage of the direct bypass on the pre, which is a great feature] and I'm wanting to condense the space it all takes up) The GNS Mod is HIGHLY recommended and worth every penny BTW for anyone considering Steve Huntley's handiwork.
Quicksilver Mini-Mites (Svetlana KT88's and Tungsram 12AX7's)
Klipsch Heresy (early 80's vintage - metal horns w/Dynamat & MDF backs)
Cables are currently Stealth (silver) pre to amps, Chord Cobra (for Naim to pre), and Homegrown Audio (speaker cables in 2' lengths)

I just got the Naim CD5 and really love it. It may even surpass my older technology Muse front end in my home system, but I've yet to put them head to head. I went from a Rega Planet 2000 to the Naim. The Planet was a great little player for the work system, but while I'm sitting at the computer working and listening in the sweet spot I found myself wanting something more. I was going to try a SACD changer (Sony's 555) but the deal on the Naim came up first and I couldn't pass it up (thanks Randy!). Boy, it really took this little system to a whole other level. Never heard the soundstage go this wide and deep on this rig. No more digital grittiness or harsness either - and the Planet was no slouch there, but the CD5 shows it up in every which way. Very smooth, kind of laid back yet engaging. Kind of like sipping on a good port.

So that's where I'm coming from. Thank you for all the helpful input folks. I've looked into all your suggestions and wasn't aware there were so many ways to go.

Marco

I've never heard one, but, the Bent products might be worth looking into.

I have the Bent Tvc passive, mine is two input model and would work well with your Naim at 2.1v output..the Bent does not like cdp's with high output. It should also be a great match with your speakers. Talk to John at Bent Audio about a match with your amps.

Here is a link to a review of the Bent, this Model like mine has the older case design (the new models have a new case design) which is very nice..they also have remote.

http://www.audioasylum.com/cgi/m.pl?forum=amp&n=16560&review=1

Dave