whatz up with tape input/outputs?

Of course you can use the tape input for any line level source. Most preamps and integrateds do not have enough inputs for all the devices available today.

Many people do need the tape loop, for one reason or another. Plus, it's not something you can disaggregate and sell separately as another overpriced little box. So if you leave it off, all those people won't even look at your product.

Whereas leaving off the phono input doesn't automatically exclude any potential customer, since outboard phono stages are available. Doing it this way actually makes good business sense for a company like NAD. It lowers the cost of the integrated, and it gets to sell a second box to anyone who listens to vinyl. Since older, more affluent audiophiles are more likely to have vinyl collections, it's charging them more while making it more affordable for the younger crowd.

Not only do I use a tape deck, but I also have a headphone amplifier that uses the tape out.

Not only would I never buy a amp without a tape out, but I would like one with two tape outs so I don't have to use a Y cable or pass through.

The one thing I don't use is the pre-out on my integrated. What is this for? If I want separates, I'll get separates.

No phono stage is no loss. It probably costs more for a step-up transformer these days than a half-decent phono stage.

Viridian
Do you have any experience with EQ or better yet the dynamic range expanders like DBX products and if so what can I expect fron a unit like that soundwise? There was one for sale the other day,and I was thinking about getting it.
Thanks
George