2. amps-preamps
  3. 1426779273

Is my preamp useless?

I enjoy my current system, which is built around a BAT VK-52SE preamp. I listen mostly to digital, via a Bryston BDP-2 player into a PS Audio DSD. I also enjoy vinyl on my VPI Classic/Dynavector/Sutherland 20-20 combo. Like most of us, I’m usually on the upgrade path. For me, the next component to upgrade would be the BAT preamp from a 52SE to a 53SE. But something occurred to me. I don’t listen loud. The gain on my PSA DSD is set to less than 100 and the BAT preamp is usually set between -20 and -10. So if my volume control is never set in the + range, is my preamp doing ANYTHING other than attenuating the volume and serving as a multi-input switch? Is all that Super Tube, single gain stage, zero feedback, high energy storage circuitry a waste of money?

Don’t get me wrong. I am very pleased with the sounds I hear. But if my pre isn’t doing anything, then I’d be better off to sell it and get a very simple passive attenuator, wouldn’t I? If that’s the case, what brands and models should I listen to?
Thanks for any advice.
slanski62

Showing 5 responses by jmcgrogan2

jmcgrogan2's avatar
jmcgrogan2
6,346 posts
 
Yes, your preamp is absolutely useless. Just send it to me and I will dispose of it properly for you, free of charge. ;^)

Cheers,
John
jmcgrogan2's avatar
jmcgrogan2
6,346 posts
 
I've bought the same speaker cables and integrated amp 3 times now. I haven't reached 4 yet, but maybe one day. ;^)
Of course I bought them all used.
jmcgrogan2's avatar
jmcgrogan2
6,346 posts
 
03-31-15: Georgelofi
Doubt it will be a favourable outcome, "once again". this will be the 4th time, why keep trying???

Knowing Grannyring's obsession with the TRL Dude.

Just as I doubt you would ever have a favorable outcome when comparing a active to a passive George.

Many times folks hear what they want to hear, on both sides of the fence.
jmcgrogan2's avatar
jmcgrogan2
6,346 posts
 
04-03-15: Georgelofi

No negativity or accusations of conspiracy.

Just presenting a portion of written facts/quotes.

It certainly doesn't appear that way George. It seems as if there is a LOT of negativity and accusations. That is your second post trying to proactively smear Bill's (Grannyring) testimony.
What's the matter George, not much confidence in your product? Maybe you are not totally sold on passives yourself??? LOL!!

Maybe folks should dig through your post history, and see how much love you give to active preamps, just to see if your opinion is fair and impartial. ;^)
jmcgrogan2's avatar
jmcgrogan2
6,346 posts
 
Great detective work George! You must have much free time on your hands down under. I'm too busy to comb through your replies, though I'm sure they are all business related.

Obviously, either my moniker was highjacked, or I was high at the time. The time frame is what throws me, I would have guessed that all of my passive experiences were well before 2005. Too many toys, not enough time nor money.

So now you have Bill backed into a corner. He either has to come out and say your LSA is awesome, or you can come out and say "I told you so".
It's a win-win for you. Well played George.
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