2. amps-preamps
  3. 1426779273

Is my preamp useless?

I enjoy my current system, which is built around a BAT VK-52SE preamp. I listen mostly to digital, via a Bryston BDP-2 player into a PS Audio DSD. I also enjoy vinyl on my VPI Classic/Dynavector/Sutherland 20-20 combo. Like most of us, I’m usually on the upgrade path. For me, the next component to upgrade would be the BAT preamp from a 52SE to a 53SE. But something occurred to me. I don’t listen loud. The gain on my PSA DSD is set to less than 100 and the BAT preamp is usually set between -20 and -10. So if my volume control is never set in the + range, is my preamp doing ANYTHING other than attenuating the volume and serving as a multi-input switch? Is all that Super Tube, single gain stage, zero feedback, high energy storage circuitry a waste of money?

Don’t get me wrong. I am very pleased with the sounds I hear. But if my pre isn’t doing anything, then I’d be better off to sell it and get a very simple passive attenuator, wouldn’t I? If that’s the case, what brands and models should I listen to?
Thanks for any advice.
slanski62
milpai's avatar
milpai
2,420 posts
 
Atmasphere,
I did look up that your firm manufacture tube preamps that do not require expensive cables or do not react to cable changes. Unfortunately I am not a tube guy. But lets not go there.
So let us assume that I purchase this preamplifier. What happens to the power amplifier, sources and speaker cables? What about power cords? They also seem to have some degree of effect due to cable changes. At least in my system, the speaker cables made a huge positive difference. Or is my system completely wrong in revealing changes because of cable switching?
marqmike
846 posts
 
Thanks Grannyring for the comments. I am looking forward to hear how the LSA works for you this time.
georgehifi's avatar
georgehifi
10,312 posts
 



03-31-15: Marqmike
Thanks Grannyring for the comments. I am looking forward to hear how the LSA works for you this time

Doubt it will be a favourable outcome, "once again". this will be the 4th time, why keep trying???

Knowing Grannyring's obsession with the TRL Dude.

Cheers George
jmcgrogan2's avatar
jmcgrogan2
6,346 posts
 
03-31-15: Georgelofi
Doubt it will be a favourable outcome, "once again". this will be the 4th time, why keep trying???

Knowing Grannyring's obsession with the TRL Dude.

Just as I doubt you would ever have a favorable outcome when comparing a active to a passive George.

Many times folks hear what they want to hear, on both sides of the fence.
georgehifi's avatar
georgehifi
10,312 posts
 


So True!!!

Cheers George
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