Phone preamp question

Passive Preamplifier In essence is merely a volume control designed to attenuate the signal going from the source (usually a CD player) to the amplifier. Since it is passive, it has no inherent gain because it has no active components (tubes or transistors) in the signal path

^That^ is all true, but an active preamp is almost always an attenuation device too.
The active does have a lower output impedance.

By using neither one, the OP saved needing another cable.

If anyone is still interested, I just replaced the "Ruby" that came with the Bellari with an nos Amperex. Sounds really, really good. The quality sound coming out of this little pre is really something for the price. Also a testament to what a higher quality tube can mean for the sound in a given system.

What the set up is:

Dual 1264 turntable in pristine condition I picked up for $100.

Odyssey Audio Stratos designed by Symphonic Line amplifier in pristine condition for $250.

Bellari vp130 mk2 with custom power supply for $200.

Nos Amperex tube for $20.

B&W CDM1NT’s bookshelves and B&W ASW 650 subwoofer I already had that are really for home theater duty and various cables I already had.

So for a $570 layout, some mighty fine sound!

Relatively speaking, of course...