Preamp inverts phase question:

Victor Khomenko of BAT claims that 50% of recordings are recorded out of absolute phase. If true, it would make your question a mute point.
However, I would switch the + and - leads at the amplifier end, as I have done in my situation. My preamp also inverts polarity, and the manufacturer (VAC) recommends switching the leads at the amplifier instead of at the speaker terminals.

You can always experiment on your own, and no damage will be done.

Cheers,
John

01-08-09: Polk432
Better do what the manual says. Who cares if you can't hear it. I have a Cary SLP98P and if have to reverse the wires on my speakers. Why take a chance of damaging or ending the life of something earlier than necessary?

I agree that following the manual is fairly important, but running 'out of phase' will not endanger the unit in any way. It will not damage the preamp, or shorten it's life at all. It's a sonic thing only. If you can't hear the difference, then swap the speaker cables as suggested. I have heard it on some recordings, and I wish my preamp had a phase invert switch, as I felt that useful on occasion.

Cheers,
John

I concur with both Almarg and Zargon, Bernie is incorrect. Once the phase is inverted, it does not magically 'uninvert' on it's own. If the preamp inverts and the amp inverts, then you are back to absolute phase. One more option could be an inverted source. An inverted source with an inverted preamp and a non-inverting amp would also produce absolute phase.

To make it simple, think of absolute phase as a '+' and inverted phase as a '-' . 2 X '-' = '+' , 1 or 3 X '-' = '-' .
You can simply change the '-' to a '+' by switching + and - on your amp terminals, no big deal.
Of course since 50% of recordings are recorded out of absolute phase, it really shouldn't matter at all.

Cheers,
John