Audio Buffer


Dear All,

I'm thinking of matching the ARC Ref 3 preamp with Mac MC501's. However, there may be impedance mismatch issues or will there? ARC Ref 3 impedance can go upto 1430 ohms while Mac input is at 18k-20k ohms?

Hence, I also plan to put in an audio buffer in between the pre and power e.g. Burson Audio Buffer AB160XLR

Has anyone experienced/ used audio buffer between pre and amp?

Thanks
primare_cd31
primare_cd31
A louder volume and greater dynamics. At first, I wasn't sure about the extent of increase in dynamic range; but when I carefully controlled for the loudness increase that the buffer provides, the increase in dynamics became apparent---at least, in my system with my ears. YMMV, but I think lowering the output impedance of the pre resulted in increased dynamics.

If you decide to audition the Burson, be sure to post your results. I think this is a overlooked gem in maximizing one's system.
Rlxl,
How did you control the loudness increase? Did you mean reduce the volumn? I feel any preamp needs to be clocked up to a certain point for them to sing best?
Thanks
primare_cd31
Primare,
Yes, I reduced the volume at the pre to compensate for the 6db boost when testing. However, given that the output of my SACD player has been reduced and my pre is passive, the 6db boost merely gets me back to the output level before the mods to my player. It you're worried that the 6db boost would be too loud for your system and settings on your pre, contact Burson directly. While shopping for the buffer, a Burson rep told me that the 6db boost is adjustable to zero gain (or unity gain). Since I didn't have the buffer at the time, I didn't ask for specifics on how make the adjustment, and after I got the unit, I didn't feel the need to adjust the output, so I never followed up on the adjustment. The rep was very responsive to my inquiries and assured me that they would assist whenever needed. I hear you on the volume control adjustment on the pre. I would try the Burson in my system to see how it performs and then make any adjustments. And you might drop Burson a line for answer your questions