The best passive preamp

We're working on it. I still need to get you out one of our MLA's to listen to. If I get off my butt and build the balanced one I've been planning I'll let you try it out. Not sure I would say the MLA is better than the LSA, but it is definitely different. The LSA is just downright unique in it's simplicity and sounds so good.

Is there balance control with the MLA, or just tight mathcing between channels. I think we might be both of the mind that channel balancing is an important "preamp" function, but most passives don't seem geared up for that.

The MLA can come with a balance control or it is available with dual attenuators which is another method you can use to control balance.

Interesting to hear Roger's changing view of resistors versus transformers, I
wonder what is causing that, but alas, another thread....actually, probably
relevant to the thread. TVC / Resistor and balance control are key choices for
the best passive. I think Roger used to be concerned with bandwidth
limitations with transformers versus resistors, but maybe transformer, or
autoformers, are getting better, who knows. Similar "debate" a Salvatore's site
in the passive line stage section. And then there is technical breakthrough of
"touch-less" LDRS.

Anthony can you explain the MLA a bit. It uses a transformer to act as a buffer of sorts, but resistors to attenuate volume? Am I getting that right?