2. amps-preamps
  3. 1146025506

Is it time to get active?

I've been using a passive "preamp" for something like a dozen years, and I've all of a sudden begun to wonder if I might want to return to an active pre. (Perhaps it's just my age. A guy can stay passive for only so long before he gets completely out of shape.) Anyway, I'm using Rega TT and CDP, McCormack mono amps and B&W 805 Sigs. Passive line stage is the McCormack (modified by SMC Audio) TLC-1. I'm generally happy -- at least I have been -- but I'm getting an itch. Any thoughts about what activity -- in the form of a preamp with gain (with tubes? with spunk? with panache?) -- might bring to this mix? If I make the move, I'd like to spend not much more than $2K. (Less, of course, would be better.) I generally listen to rock and acoustic "folk." Any suggestions or advice would be much appreciated. Thanks.
hodu
vanderstephen
35 posts
 
I just made the switch recently from a McCormack Micro Line Drive (and Lehmann's Black Cube) to an Odyssey Stratos Extreme (built in upgraded phono section). I think that it made a huge difference. I really don't feel like I lost in anything in the process. The biggest difference was in the depth of the bass. It really sounded like I had either bought a new amp or new speakers. I would absolutely recommend at least trying an active pre-amp.
sherod
1,690 posts
 

Vanderstephen,

Don't you mean Odyssey Tempest Extreme? The Stratos is an amp.
4yanx
1,576 posts
 
I have McCormack amplification through a Bent NOH passive. Previously I had used a Herron VTSP-1A/166 before going with the passive (and balanced inputs/outputs). If I was going back to active and RCA connections, I'd buy another Herron with the McCormacks. Just great synergy, IMHO. In you budget, too, for a used sample and you could always sell it if you decided to go back to passive or another linestage.
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