Unity gain with tube buffer?

I think the reference to Promitheus was for the Apollo preamp, but that uses the TVC with a gain stage (6 or 12db) which is not what you are looking for. I'm sure Nicholas could custom build what you wanted but that might be a bit risky.

It's possible that Jeffrey Jackson at Experience Music could help you. He has a lot of experience with the Intact Audio autoformers and incorporates them into his active preamp designs. Jeff is a big fan of passive linestages and if I were to have something along the lines of what you're looking for custom built for me he'd be near the top of my list.

Talk to Ralph about the Audio Kinesis speakers. He has some interesting things to say about them. My Jazz Modules should be here in the next couple of days. Looking forward to getting rid of speaker stands.

I read up a bit more on the B1. Seems pretty interesting and makes me wonder why more manufacturers haven't done this.

With resistive passives controlling the interconnect is more critical. TVCs and AVCs less so (Ralph has this thing about transformers too - so that probably wouldn't be a convincing argument to him). However John Chapman's new design (6 input version) incorporates a buffer stage that can be turned on/off for each input. He comments that using it would be in extreme cases where a source could not drive the passive. No buffer on the output though, which the B1 incorporates in its resistive passive design (along with the input as well). Interestingly enough John chose to just make his TAP resistive passive mini modules with short pigtails that you place near the amp, eliminating the long cable on the output. Not sure how this sounds, but it's similar to the concept of the EVS nude attenuators which you just plug into the amps inputs (I have a pair which I should revisit using).

I'd have to say Nelson Pass's design is interesting and could be worth a try. It's certainly priced right. Just wish it had balanced inputs and outputs. Also, noticed that Nelson commented that a regulated power supply would be better than battery.

Ralph,

Can you elaborate more on the passive control option for your amps?

Since I have Duke's Jazz Modules coming (have the Stormbringers now) I have been considering the M60s (although the S30 was what I believe Duke voiced the with) as an option.

Thanks

Ralph,

Thanks for the response. The volume control in the M-60 is an interesting option. Does this have to be done with a new unit or can used one be upgraded?

You comments on TVCs are also interesting. I had been leaning towards getting the new Bent TAP AVC (balanced version) but that will now depend on if I decide to move to the M-60s.