Passive preamp for Tube Amp?

Consider the following:

Using a passive attenuation device requires that you optimise electrical "energy transfer" parametres (between pre & amp)

1) The output impedance of the pre and the input of the amp are important. The placette seems to have a reasonably low output imp and reasonably steady across the audible spectrum -- and this helps.

2) The source component (i.e. whatever precedes the "passive" pre) will be driving: wire-> volume control (passive pre)->wire->amp. So it must have a strong output.

3) Softened bass is usually the sign that insufficient energy is entering the amp -- it has to do with the source, the impedances of the amp & the attenuation device (passive pre).

4) If you know the input impedance of yr amp & the output specs of the Rogue, you can guess what the results would be. Or, you can try it.

If your willing, check out the Sonic Euphoria PLC. It has been reviewed by Stereophile and they felt that the did not have trouble with Bass and Dynamics. Jeff Hagler's design using an autoformer eliminates the Bass and Dynamics issue. I have one that I use from time to time and IMHO it would be worth checking out. Good Luck

I've used an EVS stepped attenuator with McIntosh MC30's driving Maggie SMG/A's and loved them. Not a 'rocking' setup, but for anything short of metal it was a great sound and I never had any trouble getting plenty of level from it despite being passive.

The Maggies are softer and lighter in the bass than most box speakers, so it might be a bit apples and oranges, but I'd give it a try if the home trial is available.

Dave,
Passives are a wonderful transparent big soundstage way to go.
You need to be aware of your output impedence of your CD player and your input impedence of your amp. I have owned and listened to many passives.
Interconnect length is a big deal, as short as possible. My personal favorites are from Reference Line, the Placette is a good one also, for the money.
Try it, you might like it. I use a new version of the Reference Line Preeminence One with a VK60, and have great bass, and a clean, clear, transparent soundstage that goes on forever that a active can never provide.

Get the Placette, you'll be blown away...