Trying to find a passive attenuator with a mono/stereo switch and RCA in and RCA out


My audio system is two-channel, vinyl only. I'm considering replacing my preamp with a device that sits between my phono stage and my amp, in which the device provides: (1) volume control; and (2) a mono/stereo switching option. All of my connections are unbalanced so the device has to have RCA's for both input and output. I don't need any gain on the source input and I don't need any source switching.

I've looked at high-end stuff, low-end stuff (Aliexpress etc.), pro audio gear, and vintage stuff, and can't find a device that provides passive attenuation, a mono/stereo switch, and has RCA in and RCA out.

Any suggestions for where to look for such a thing? Thanks!

patrickhenrypdx

I've never run across one with a mono stereo switch, lots out there with a selector switch and volume of course. 

You may have better luck having one made, as its just a volume pot and a switch. 

Decware probably could make one for you out of thier passive preamp. 

NVA out of the UK also. all their preamps are passive. 

lots of companies out there making passive preamps i'm sure one would add a switch for mono/stereo if you ask. may want to look local for a tech who can make a passive preamp, bassicaly a volume pot in a box with a couple RCA's and a switch to add the two signals together for mono. 

 

I've thought about buying a Khozmo ladder attenuator and throwing it in a box with a switch for stereo/mono, but I already have so many big and little projects I should be working on. Decware is a good idea ... I'll look into that.

It's a mistake to think your preamp is not important. A good preamp is key to a good system. Then you just need a stereo to mono converter network that you can buy at Amazon.

@invalid  thank you for the pointer to Space-Tech Lab. I hadn't heard of them before.

 

@russ69 can you elaborate on what you mean about the preamp? My signal path now is turntable-external phono stage-preamp-amp. The preamp is operating in 'direct' mode, which provides no gain or tone controls. It's essentially merely an attenuator. What about a preamp makes it "key to a good system"? It seems like replacing my preamp with an attenuator would be an even swap in terms of the signal path.

Modify the Schiit Sys input selector switch to a stereo/mono switch by soldering 2 resistors and a jumper wire, this is a 15 minute job.