Is it possible that you are using cable runs on the IC's that are too long? Stick to the shortest IC connection possible, especially between the passive and the amp(s). The passive pres are much more sensitive to cable length. I have a Placette and love it in my SS system, but have heard it sound poorly in my other system because of cable length and source output voltage. Which brings me to the other question; what is the output voltage of your source? If it's very low, say under 2.5V, that may be a cause of, or part of, your problem there.
That said, in researching my purchase, all the real-world input I could find that had compared both said that the Active was better than the passive, but at a substantial cost (more than 3X price of the passive, and almsot 5X price of the RVC single-input passive). I can't comment myself as I have not heard an active Placette. The passive is just outstanding, IMO, and is a tremendous value for the money if it works in your system.
Marco
That said, in researching my purchase, all the real-world input I could find that had compared both said that the Active was better than the passive, but at a substantial cost (more than 3X price of the passive, and almsot 5X price of the RVC single-input passive). I can't comment myself as I have not heard an active Placette. The passive is just outstanding, IMO, and is a tremendous value for the money if it works in your system.
Marco