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In Reply to: I had a Saga+... posted by mlsstl on March 10, 2021 at 14:03:11:
I've been toying with a passive front end. I've tried several DACs and Schitt Lyr 3. I like that unit, but for some reason, using an outboard RCA switch box (https://www.ebay.com/itm/203013116882) and passive volume control (see link below) gives me a really spacious and transparent experience. At the moment, that's what I prefer. When I don't use the Lyr 3 to drive my power amp (a McIntosh 240), I use the switch box and volume control to select from turntable (via a Bellari VP130MK preamp), reel-to-reel take deck, Sony HD FM tuner, and SMSL Sanskrit DAC. Otherwise, I use the switchbox to route the turntable, tape deck, and tuner to the Lyr 3 (for analog), and use its DAC for digital material.
Both arrangements are good, but somehow, I am really enjoying the passive arrangement (switch box and volume control). The Sanskrit DAC, btw, is really good, delivering performance that used to cost a lot more.
Give the passive preamp approach a try before you invest in anything else. Regarding a tube buffer - you may or may not need/want one. My analog sources drive the McIntosh very well. (I read somewhere that the input impedance on tube amplifiers is well suited to passive front ends. YMMV.)
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Follow Ups
- RE: I had a Saga+... - svisner 14:27:49 03/18/21 (0)