You could not do transformer passive. That is impossible by the very nature in how it works. There are many tube pre-amps but most only use capacitor coupling. This makes impedance matching to the amplifier Sorry
Transformer coupled / Capacitor coupled
Just a question from my curiosity. I remember someone recently mentioned here that capacitor coupled pre-amp sounds better and is more expensive and rare, than transformer coupled ones. Could someone elaborate, as to the difference of those two and how each design works and why either sounds better? Thank you!
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Here is a discussion of a transformer based "pre" by Thorsten Loesch. Heard it in Chicago a few weeks ago but was not able to draw any conclusions. I remain, |
JC, sorry about my confusion. I guess I am not only half-deaf, but half-blind. Thanks for explanation. Now I understand the difference. BUT, still wonder whether it is just a matter of avoiding impedance mismatch, or something more? I mean, I have never used pre-amp, let alone transformer or capacitor coupled. I know I have to hear for myself and I will someday, but what if the output of the source is high enough, there is not major impedance mismatch, and power amp is more than powerful enough? My half-dead brain cells keep saying, "if there is no spec mismatch, job of driving speakers should be done by the power amp. Pre amp is for less competent power amps, or just for input selector or tone control which of course depends on one's preference." Please forgive me if "Pre-amp or no pre-amp" issue has been discussed many times here. If you could direct me to the thread, I will go there. Thanks again for your help. Ken |
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