Passive Pre - No Regrets?

A big key was working with master tapes! This allowed us to know exactly what the recording really did sound like.

Unfortunately this is not the case. You listened to tapes that were slowly deteriorating over time played on a tape deck that added it's own colorations played through speakers or headphones that also added colorations. Perhaps better than the CDs and vinyl I have but still not perfect. There is no way around this problem.

Well, after six weeks of A/B evaluations, I have sold my CAT SL1 and am very happy with the Placette RVC. It works with great in my system - low output impedance single source, no gain needed, low capacitance cables (Cardas GR), and high sensitvity, high input impedance CAT JL2 amplifier. Sounds like the debate can go on forever, but in the right system, I think it is hard to beat a high quality passive preamp.

I wish there had been a thread with as much cogent discussion when I was first considering a passive. Herman makes some very excellent points, especially with resepct to why it "works" for some and not others, so I won't belabor that issue. I have tried quite a number of linestages in my system, looking back, and the Bent NOH that I currently use is the best, by a pretty good margin. Better than several actives, both tubed and SS, and better than the passive Placette.

Steve McCormack has been developing his latest take on a cutting edge passive for some time now. I am anxiously awaiting this piece, expecting VERY good things.

I just received my Placette RVC that I had them build with a 100K input impedance. I tried the stock unit but it was lifeless due to the high output impedance of my phono stage. This one works wonderfully. There is a price premium for the larger resistors due to an increase in his costs, but if you have the need as I did then it is well worth it.

I just love having a remote volume control!

I agree 4yanx the Bent NOH is a terrific unit! I for one have no interest in active linestages any more(no matter the cost). If it ain't a TVC..I have no use for it.
FWIW Peter Daniels of Audio Sector is working on a RVC unit. Hopefully he'll have it completed and tested by spring of next year. I may try one of his to get a taste of the RVCs. The TVC is here to stay.

Good listening