I'm not sure if this will matter or not, but Electronic Visionary Systems makes a volume control that connects directly to your amp...making a pre-amp (or CD equipped with volume control) unnecessary They cost less than $300, but there is no remote. You can read about them at www.tweakaudio.com.
Help with a budget second system
I am looking to put together a budget system for my den. The room is 12x16. I am not sure whether to go solid state or tube. For solid state, I was considering the Audio Refinement, Cambridge Audio, or Creek integrated amps (prices ranging from $400-750). For tube, I have been investigating the Rogue 88, and Jolida 502B (prices between $750-1100). I wanted to try the new Magnapan MMG's but I am concerned that they may not produce enough bass. If I go with the Rogue, I was considering purchasing a decent CD with volume control to connect directly to the amp. Trying to stay below $2k, interconnects included, how would you proceed?