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In Reply to: RE: I tend to disagree posted by AbeCollins on May 15, 2011 at 10:10:48
And yet you use and active preamp?? I have tried many "passive" preamps, even digital attenuation from the source, and NONE sound anywhere close to as dynamic and right as a good preamp. Even a not so good preamp has more get up and go.
I had a DAC, Monarchy Audio M22B, that had 6V output levels (or 3V take your pick) specifically for driving passives. Never sounded anywhere close to what it sounded like with an active preamp.
BTW, your system looks like it should be pretty good sounding so don't think I am bashing your system. I am just curious about the fact that you personally use an active preamp when you had the Placette before I assume? Also, a tube amp typically has a high input impedance...perfect for passive...or so we are led to believe.
Follow Ups:
Good observation and a valid question that I have commented on in the past.
My main reason for using the ACTIVE linestage these days is a matter of convenience with it's I/O and switching. I have access to 8 pairs of inputs, both RCA and XLR balanced in my present linestage. It also has 3 pairs of outputs which is handy since I have solid-state and tube amps in the setup. I don't have to swap interconnects (I run two sets) when I choose to use the SS amps (mostly for background music while I work from home) vs the tube amps for more serious listening. It's convenient. ;-)
When my system was simpler, I loved the Cary CDP coupled through the Placette Passive, driving a pair of AES/Cary SixPac tube amps into my somewhat sensitive Tannoy Definition D500 speakers. There was no lack of bass, lower-midrange, midrange, treble extension, or dynamics. And it was extremely "clear" and transparent. I loved it!
If you're observant you will also notice that I chose an ARC linestage with 6H30 tubes for the current setup as I find these to be fairly neutral as tube linestages go. Again, I have no need to increase, emphasize, or enhance the lower-midrange or dynamics in any way as my system (with or without a linestage) is more than sufficient in these area.
Which brings me back to the whole "system synergy" discussion. I've tried passive and active linestages and I find both to be excellent depending on the rest of the gear in the system. And again, I'm not talking "system synergy" as a cop out excuse as so many folks do. There are technical issues (synergies) to consider which are much more critical in setting up a good system when using a passive linestage. These are often misunderstood, lost, and ignored in stupid PASSIVE vs ACTIVE linestage debates.
which is lacking in my arrangement. I have to switch interconnects to the power amp whenever I change sources. Not only that, but the CDP and preamp share the same power cord, so that is swapped, too.
Not the most convenient solution, but the best sounding in my system
rw
Next I'll be wanting a full function remote control. Oh wait, I have one of those too!
when you have such a nefarious mind. :^0rw
edit: I just learned that mine is diabolical . LOL
Edits: 05/16/11
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