The best passive preamp

If the rest of your system is passive preamp friendly (impedance, sensitivity, low capacity speakercable), you can get very good results.
My Bent NOH (transformer based) outperformed my Sonic Frontiers Line 3......

A passive is not for everyone or every system. However, I will enthusiastically second the Bent NOH. It is the very best linestage I've heard with my McCormack DNA-225 and I've had a few. Most recently, it embarrassed a Pass Labs X1, which is about three times the price.

The NOH is ultra transparent. Some may find a passive lacking somewhat in dynamics. I experienced this with a Placette and a previouslt and earlier Bent 102. However, the NOH delivers it ALL. Good luck.

I agree with 4yanx. The Placette was thin, lacking dynamics, and uninvolving in my system. My current preamp is a custom job using the same trannies as in the NOH. It is excellent and has bested many more expensive preamps in every respect, including dynamics and bass response. I also agree with his disclaimer about passive devices, even a TVC, not being the best match in every system. But when it all comes together, it is magic.

Oz

reading the review by audiotweaks on the bent audio site www.bentaudio.com will give you an idea of the requirements for passive volume control,the resistor formats series,shunt and ladder, and the transformer alternative.www.audiosynthesis.co.uk description of the passion 8,also lays out the ideal requirements for a resistor type.I have both a synthesis and a bent noh both sound wonderfull but my system at present suits the noh which is available with either copper or silver tx102,s a chat with john chapman about your system would help to choose the correct type of transformer for you.If you do choose a resistor type at least look at audiosynthesis they are the uk distributers for vishay bulk foil reistors,neutrik connectors+they also manufacture high quality silver cables and all of their products feature these components.Also their fit and finish is of the highest standard.

Here's another vote for the NOH. With the right amps in my system it has outperformed a SimAudio P5, an Audion Premier and a Canary 801. It has clarity, dynamics, low-level listenability - there's just less getting in the way of the music.

I don't know if it will run with the REALLY big dogs - the CJs, ARCs, VTLs, CATs and Lamms of the world, but I can't see anyone being disappointed if the rest of their system is sympathetic - especially when the price difference stays in your pocket.