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What is a non-active pre-amp stage?? Are their advantages to this design??

I am considering an  Conrad Johnson CA-150 integrated amp which offers a "non active pre-amp stage"

Need and explanation of this design.  What are its pros and cons??  Does it provide better sound quality or performance, than an "active pre-amp stage" ?

Any comments about the C.J, CA-150 integrated amp sound quality??


Thank you,

S.J.



sunnyjim
jond's avatar
jond
5,916 posts
 
A non active preamp stage means the preamp stage is passive and just controls volume, there is no gain just attenuation. I have not personally heard the CA-150 so can't comment there.
roberjerman
4,319 posts
 
Just a single dual-ganged pot or a pair of pots (variable rotary resistors). No gain, no noise!
noromance's avatar
noromance
9,993 posts
 
Not heard it but removing the first stage input amplifier does a number of things. It takes out an extra stage of electronics with the idea that simpler is purer. Less crap in the path. You might want to check the input impedence matches the source. Depending on the design it may reduce the "drive" of the amplifier compared to one with an active stage. It is a balancing act between the two.
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