Who makes the best passive volume control?

I think that the best passive volume control is no passive volume control at all.

I recently noticed that a hi-end tube audio manufacturer in Vancouver made a 100 step IR remote control volume passive pre-amp, model number RV-101, which should be exactly match your requirement. They claim this is all relay switch resistor ladder type with best sound. Only one input and one output. They have a website, just type www.space-tech-lab.com to check it out. The guy run this shop is a real nice one, I have been there several times, he make really good sound tube equipments.

Not being to timid at showing my lack of knowledge; am I to assume a passive has ONLY one volume setting? Also seems I've read the passive doesn't like to drive a single ended 3mt. ic. Is this true?

George, a passive is a volume control. Long interconnects can give you problems as the source must drive the amp with no help from a pre-amp. With some source and amps you would have no problem with 3 meter interconnects. It all depends on many things, speaker used will also have an effect on how it works out. It's a great way to fly when it does work.