What is a non-active pre-amp stage?? Are their advantages to this design??


I am considering an  Conrad Johnson CA-150 integrated amp which offers a "non active pre-amp stage"

Need and explanation of this design.  What are its pros and cons??  Does it provide better sound quality or performance, than an "active pre-amp stage" ?

Any comments about the C.J, CA-150 integrated amp sound quality??


Thank you,

S.J.



sunnyjim

Showing 1 response by noromance

Not heard it but removing the first stage input amplifier does a number of things. It takes out an extra stage of electronics with the idea that simpler is purer. Less crap in the path. You might want to check the input impedence matches the source. Depending on the design it may reduce the "drive" of the amplifier compared to one with an active stage. It is a balancing act between the two.