McCormack ALD-1 question

The ALD-1 is a "conventional" preamp, meaning that it has an active gain stage with about +12dB of gain. It is unconventional in that it also has both buffered and unbuffered input paths, buffered tape output, a completely passive (no active gain circuit at all) output path, and balanced outputs (active only). So, to answer your specific question, when you listen through the passive outputs, the signal comes directly from the volume control (literally a straight-wire path). When you listen through the active outputs, the signal is being fed from the volume control into a gain stage that amplifies the signal before it is fed to the output jacks - which is typical of most preamp designs. There are strengths and weaknesses in both systems (active and passive), but most preamps offer one style or the other - the ALD-1 is one of the few designs offering both in the same package.

I hope this has answered your question. If you need more information, please contact me directly at SMcAudio@pacbell.net

Steve McCormack, designer
McCormack Audio Corp.
SMc Audio

WOW! I thought I might draw out an answer or two, but never in my wildest imagination did I think I could pull that off! That's just like hearing from Elvis or something, only different. One more reason in an already long list explaining why I am a fan of McCormack Audio (even if I don't know how it works). Thanks Steve.

Thanks for the response Steve-it's a great pre-amp and I also own the DNA-1 deluxe (bought from Chstob when he went multi-channel) which I think is a fantastic amp.

Hi Steve, I would like to thank you for your excellent audio designs. I own a SST-1 Transport, DAC-1 Deluxe Edition, TLC-1 Deluxe Edition and DNA-2. I'm totally satisfied with these products and look forward to revision A upgrade for DNA-2. It's great to see you take time to respond. I will continue to support your product line. sincerely, Don.