Tape input on preamp - Can I use for other sources

Depends on the input on the preamp. Most are simply line-level inputs and can be used for most other sources. Some are tape head inputs which are like phono inputs in that they have much greater gain and special EQ compared to line level inputs.

What preamp is it?

Kal

Yes you can, as the only one 'equalized' is the Phono input (if you have one). So if your preamp is a 'linestage' (no phono input) - you can use the inputs anyway you like.

Kr4, you state:

Some are tape head inputs which are like phono inputs in that they have much greater gain and special EQ compared to line level inputs.

I never heard of such an input on a consumer preamp. To what are you referring?

Joeylawn36111, true, in most cases. However, some E.A.R. integrateds have a "phono input" that is just for labeling of the source selector knob...actually, only a line level input requiring an additional phono preamp. There may also be other preamps or integrateds that use this labeling system as well!

kal is correct although I haven't seen it in many years. My old Pioneer SX-1000TW has a tape head input.

Swampwalker, so do you recall the exact function of this input? Or was it just labeling done to prevent confusion of the conventionally used "tape/source" or "source/monitor loop on" switch designation?