2. amps-preamps
  3. 1065806189

Single input Line-Stage Pre-amp

I have a simple question about a simple product so please no suggestions for pre-amps in general as there are numerous threads about that I can access in the archives. My question is, are there any (many?) manufacturers who are marketing a stone simple, uncompromising, single input / single output line stage pre-amp (exactly like the many such offerings there are in Phono preamps)? In both my two-channel systems I only have a single component I wish to listen to. I don't need the extra space and switching compromises that a multiple input preamp provides. I seem to recall that Decware and perhaps some other DIY kits may offer this, but do any of the high-end manufacturers make something like this...preferably a tube design. I do love my Cary SLP-50A...it's small, has only three inputs and one output, overbuilt like a tank, and sounds fantastic paired off with my SET amps, but just wondering if I could get something even more to the point with just a single input and no switch? Any suggestions?
jax2
sidssp
1,077 posts
 
If you don't need the extra gains, a pair of passive attenuators are all you need.

Try this resistor based from
http://www.tweakaudio.com/Ultimate%20Attenuators.html

or transformer based from
http://www.bentaudio.com/index2.html
jdombrow
371 posts
 
I read this review yesterday, and it sounds like a very nice unit:

http://positive-feedback.com/Issue9/decwarezsla.htm
reubent
7,037 posts
 
Do you need the gain of an active pre-amp or is passive OK?

If passive will work, Luminous Audio Tech. (LAT) makes a very good single input passive unit for $125 brand new. I think they have a money back offer too, but not sure.

For active pre-amps, Space-Tech Labs offers a single input tube pre-amp for $349 with a 30 day trial offer. This pre-amp has received some good reviews at AudioAsylum in the past. See the link and click on QA-001

http://www.space-tech-lab.com/PreAmpPage.html

I'm currently auditioning a pre-amp from Dodd Audio that has 2 inputs. I'll bet Gary would build it with a single input and bypass the switch. You can email Gary Dodd at

gldodd@comcast.net

It is a very nice sounding pre-amp and it looks really great too. It is $450, but may be less with a single input/output.

My $.02 worth!!

Enjoy,

TIC
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