2. amps-preamps
  3. 1268737214

Who is using passive preamps and why?

Seldom has there been any discussions on passive preamps in the forums and although my experience with them has been limited I have found them so far to be very enjoyable and refreshingly different. They seem to fall into their own category, somewhere between solid state and tube. Finding a preamp that is satisfing has been difficult. Some active solid state preamps can be very good but they seem to inject grain to some degree in the upper registers and some tube preamps are not too far behind. So far I think they should at least be matched up with an amp that has sufficient gain which is often overlooked. Which passives are you using and with what amp? Why do you like them?
phd
clio09
3,346 posts
 
I used to think the TVC/AVC designs were better. The Lightspeed Attenuator changed that thinking. Again, it probably comes down to system matching, and of course the actual design and parts used, but my system can easily work with both types.
pubul57
3,712 posts
 
Anthony, you know what Roger Modjeski thinks, and he seems to know a thing or two about this stuff. One of the reasons I question the TVC/AVC avalanche of opinion. When are you going to sell me your Lightspeeds:)?
ig316b
103 posts
 
Phd, Not to make this sound bad but once you hear the Ultra the stock really sounds veiled in comparison. The transparency in the soundstage just opens up to reveal layers upon layers of information. Just to tempt your taste buds if you happen to live anywhere around the Lake Ontario/Toronto area we could arrange a listening session and compare notes.
phd OP
1,285 posts
 
Ig316b, I live in Washington state which borders Canada but not sure how close we are. Yes I would love to give your Ultra a listen!
clio09
3,346 posts
 
Paul,

After listening to the RM-10 MkII for the last few days I'm beginning to believe Roger is the genius he thinks he is ;) I haven't even tube swapped yet and I may not. I may try my hand at building one of his PITB's, but after I build my balanced passive though. I have the parts now, just need to put it together. I live near Jack Elliano of Electra Print and I'm using his transformers and schematic for the project. He's been kind enough to allow me access to his workshop to build it as well. Great guy, very knowledgeable and some excellent SET amp designs, with which he uses passive preamps.

If all goes well the Lightspeed may be available soon. Of course if you ever just want to listen to it let me know.
More to discover