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Original Message

Do tube preamps add or take away dynamics

Posted by airtime on June 8, 2017 at 14:31:42:
I did try posting this elsewhere but the topic only took off in various directions.

I was toying with the idea of building a DIY impedance buffer/passive type preamp. Just a fun project and nothing serious to replace gear - just fun.

https://www.passdiy.com/project/preamplifiers/b1-buffer-preamp

So here's two questions for the engineer types and those that know FAR more than I do.

I understand the source is the limiting factor. But I'm a tad fuzzy on the potential of preamps gain vs. just a straight signal from the source.

If your source goes through a tubed preamp can the signal in any way have added dynamics. Not only the added gain and buffering of a normal preamp. More actual punch, dynamics, detail, etc.... Can a preamp with gain bring more out, or just loose a tiny bit in the gain process?

With today's sources is a tubed preamp really even needed? Or can it just be replaced with a buffer going basically "passive" directly into a tubed amp?