The best passive preamp

reading the review by audiotweaks on the bent audio site www.bentaudio.com will give you an idea of the requirements for passive volume control,the resistor formats series,shunt and ladder, and the transformer alternative.www.audiosynthesis.co.uk description of the passion 8,also lays out the ideal requirements for a resistor type.I have both a synthesis and a bent noh both sound wonderfull but my system at present suits the noh which is available with either copper or silver tx102,s a chat with john chapman about your system would help to choose the correct type of transformer for you.If you do choose a resistor type at least look at audiosynthesis they are the uk distributers for vishay bulk foil reistors,neutrik connectors+they also manufacture high quality silver cables and all of their products feature these components.Also their fit and finish is of the highest standard.

Here's another vote for the NOH. With the right amps in my system it has outperformed a SimAudio P5, an Audion Premier and a Canary 801. It has clarity, dynamics, low-level listenability - there's just less getting in the way of the music.

I don't know if it will run with the REALLY big dogs - the CJs, ARCs, VTLs, CATs and Lamms of the world, but I can't see anyone being disappointed if the rest of their system is sympathetic - especially when the price difference stays in your pocket.

GET BENT.

System matching/synergy is key as usual. Need enough juice coming out of your source and decent gain and input impedence in your power amp. The Bent NOH is transparent, detailed, extended, with just an ever so slight hint of sweetness that makes you forget about the gear and let you enjoy the sound.

Thank you very much!

Have any of you Bent users heard the Sonic Euphoria PLC? I'm curious about this unit because the Bent is no longer available, and because they have a 30-day trial period.

Also, roughly what conditions would contraindicate a passive?