Hattor Audio preamps?

I did own one of Don’s preamps and it was very good. I sold it when I went to an Allnic integrated amp. When I decided to go back to separates I thought I’d try the Hattor and I’m glad I did, it’s a great pre. I’ve owned many active and passive line stages and I always come back to passive because I favor high sensitivity speakers and tube amps, which is where they shine. I honestly think if your system is passive friendly, there aren’t many actives that can sound better. Again, that’s my opinion.

Ive owned them all. TVC, AVC, LDR and resistor passives. All are good and will beat most actives in the right circumstances.

They certainly do look the part. If I buy, I will be ordering with the AMRG Trans resistors. It appears that you get a lot for your $$.

My Don Sachs preamp had the Khozmo attenuator and it was really nice in it's operation.

Thanks for all the replies.

I have exchanged several emails with Arek over the last two weeks. He is very responsive and I have no doubt the transaction will be seamless.

I placed my order today with Arek for his "big" preamp with the AMRT resistors. He says it should ship next week. Stay tuned.

I just wanted to update this thread. I received my preamp about a week after ordering it. Working with Arek was a pleasure. It is extremely well constructed and solid. When you factor in the quality build and the flight case it ships in, you can understand he’s not getting rich at this.

It is very transparent as you might expect, but dynamic as hell too. Just gets out of the way and let’s your amp do it’s thing, which is exactly what I wanted. Highly recommended.

@pioneerhip 

Yes I’m still using the preamp and still love it.

I have owned most every type of passive device. In my opinion, a TVC is the warmest of all. I wouldn’t say it has more body, but definitely a warmer sound while still retaining the transparency of a passive. TVCs aren’t quite as transparent as an LDR or resistor based passive.

The Hattor is the first resistor passive I have liked. Mine has the AMRT resistors from AMT Trans. Similar to the AMRG but according to Arek, even better. I am pairing it with an Aric Super 300B amplifier and the result is to my liking. I feel like I get all the goodness of the 300B tube with incredible transparency.

The Hattor Audio Big passive is a stone cold bargain IMHO.