To summarize some of the posts here and in addition to other aspects I have learned I didn't know before that there are two kinds of passives, resistor and transformer based. Argubly folks swear by both designs and the use of passives require more attention to the proper selection of associated gear and cabling. But once set up properly the results can produce a dynamic but superb sound.
I fell into this not knowing alot about passives but in my particular case the guess work was somewhat taken out by pairing a McCormack TLC-1 to a McCormack amp which has a high input impedance and was obviously designed to accomodate passives. Coupled with highly efficient speakers to the tune of 102db produced a very dynamic, smooth, and spacious sound. I can reach sound levels that challenges actives. It is my opinion that I have not heard a solid state active preamp that compares. The only other type of preamp that I would ever consider as an equal would be a tube preamp but I am leaning more towards the passive because I can leave it powered up all the time and is ready when I am plus it sounds damn good. I will eventually have Smc upgrade my TLC-1 and DNA Deluxe amp or possibly try other passives like the VRE-1.
I fell into this not knowing alot about passives but in my particular case the guess work was somewhat taken out by pairing a McCormack TLC-1 to a McCormack amp which has a high input impedance and was obviously designed to accomodate passives. Coupled with highly efficient speakers to the tune of 102db produced a very dynamic, smooth, and spacious sound. I can reach sound levels that challenges actives. It is my opinion that I have not heard a solid state active preamp that compares. The only other type of preamp that I would ever consider as an equal would be a tube preamp but I am leaning more towards the passive because I can leave it powered up all the time and is ready when I am plus it sounds damn good. I will eventually have Smc upgrade my TLC-1 and DNA Deluxe amp or possibly try other passives like the VRE-1.