lot depends on how gain or output you one source has, if it has plenty, and is of quality, passive preamps are great. Its when you need output for transients and don't have enough from your signal source is when the active desires begin.
Best sound-using passive or active pre-amp?
Hi All,
I'm just interested in the "best sound" and MUST us some type of pre-amp, even though I have only ONE source (SACD Player).
Can an "active" pre-amp sound "better" than the best passive? (Cable lengths and impedance is NOT a concern)
It's my understanding that a signal, once in the analog domain, can only DEGRADE from that point on. It CAN't be bettered anywhere down the line. So if gain is the only concern, and you want to hear what's on the source, how can an active be "better"?? What makes the most sense?
With that in mind, I'm looking at the EVS Ultimate Attenuators to use as a passive pre. They seem to have the shortest and cleanest signal path. Looks good on paper! Any reason these wouldn't give the "cleanest" transfer of the original signal from my source? (all other items being equal)
If there is a better way to get the "best" sound, please share your experiences and help educate me?
As always, your comments and suggestions are appreciated.
Happy Listening!
I'm just interested in the "best sound" and MUST us some type of pre-amp, even though I have only ONE source (SACD Player).
Can an "active" pre-amp sound "better" than the best passive? (Cable lengths and impedance is NOT a concern)
It's my understanding that a signal, once in the analog domain, can only DEGRADE from that point on. It CAN't be bettered anywhere down the line. So if gain is the only concern, and you want to hear what's on the source, how can an active be "better"?? What makes the most sense?
With that in mind, I'm looking at the EVS Ultimate Attenuators to use as a passive pre. They seem to have the shortest and cleanest signal path. Looks good on paper! Any reason these wouldn't give the "cleanest" transfer of the original signal from my source? (all other items being equal)
If there is a better way to get the "best" sound, please share your experiences and help educate me?
As always, your comments and suggestions are appreciated.
Happy Listening!