How do you add remote control to a preamp, here's how.

This is the passive linestage that I would highly recommend.

Hattor Audio “The Big”

The problem is you now have a cheap alps pot and a second set of interconnects in the circuit. You are definitely changing the sound, but if you are ok with that, fine. It’s not a novel idea, it’s been done many times. But remember, the volume control of a preamp is one of, if not the most, important part of the design. You don’t want to cheap out on that.

If you like it, that's all that matters. But compare two passive preamps, one using an ALPS pot and the other using this high quality khozmo ladder type volume control. There will be a distinct difference.

Khozmo 64 step ladder attenuator

@phd 

Do you absolutely need gain in your system? Many people think they do, but that's not the case.

@phd 

Do you absolutely need gain in your system? Many people think they do, but that's not the case.

Perhaps you didn't see this question?

why do you need the second preamp? why not run the passive directly to your amp?

@glennewdick 

That's the point I was trying to make above. Unless he absolutely needs the gain, a high quality passive (not the cheap one he bought) will be much better.