Pairing older NAD power amp with newer preamp

Thank you. I like the idea of a passive preamp and I admit I have only recently become aware of that option. The interconnects I purchased should arrive at my front this afternoon and they are low capacitance LC-1's from Blue Jeans Cable.

My speakers are 4 ohm, 88db, so not real sensitive. I'm not certain about the output voltages of my sources. I'll need to research that. My TT is a Pro-Ject Expression III with Oyster cart and NAD PP 2i phono preamp and the speakers are Polk Audio LSi 15's. CD/DVD player is a Sony DVP-NC685V. I'm using the Pre-amp section of a NAD L40. So as you can see, a very modest, yet nice sounding system. Most, excepting the TT, was purchased between 1998 and 2003. Though the NAD L40 does a respectable job, I'm sure I am missing a lot of potential.

Thanks so much for the advice. I'll put a lot more effort into researching the passive route.

I have the $49 Schiit Sys passive pre between my dac and an NAD 214. For the price you can't beat it.

Great. I'll check it out. Thanks!

Almarg, I checked out the Antique Sound Lab Line Two DT as you suggested and I will give it serious consideration. Another I have been eye-balling for a while is the Vincent SA-31 tube/ss hybrid pre. It made the Absolute Sound's Editor's Choice list. Owner's commenting on the Audio Advisor web site are quite pleased. It's also $300 dollars more than the Line Two DT but includes, good or bad, more circuitry...tone controls, tone deactivation, loudness, led power light. It uses two 6N16B tubes vs a 12AU7 on the Line Two. The input/output capabilities on the Line Two are perfect for my needs. But what about the sound comparison? Am I lucky enough to find someone out there that has experienced both?

A minor point, Sandspur, but the ASL preamp also has a power indicator LED. It is located just above the logo.

Also, something to consider is that I believe 6N16B's have leads which are probably soldered to the circuit board in the SA-31 and other audio components which utilize them, rather than being socketed. Although IIRC that tube is rated for a very long lifespan, so replacement would presumably be required rarely if ever.

Good luck, however you decide to proceed. Regards,
-- Al