Buffered Pre-out? What is it?

Mlsstl, It is an Arcam C-30. And yes, you are correct, the unbuffered out is stated as prefered.

It was more of a general question than a problem with implementation. I am familiar with the concept of digital buffering in the manner you describe. How buffering is applied in the context of a pre-out just had me grasping at thin air (mentally ciruit challenged :>)).

Your thought makes good sense. Do you know what would be used in a buffer circuit that would degrade the sound? Just extra connections?

Just curious.

Thank You! - Jim S.

Viridian, Eldartford, Mlsstl,

Thanks a lot for the explanations.

A pre-out buffer lowers the output impedance. In the case of Arcam they provide this optional output to make up for a long IC run that could add to the impedance the amplifier sees? Yes?

A buffered output stage doesn't necessarily add distortion because it does not add gain. It may deteriorate sound quality because of the added circuitry?

It all makes sense. Arcam markets to HT and multi-room implementations. Remote equipment placements, long IC's and/or speaker cable runs.

Thanks, it has been a good day at the office (I learned something today!). I am going to try the buffered output to see if I can hear a degradation in sound.

Just curious.

Really, thanks a bunch for taking the time!

Jim S.