new experience with my passive preamp

How does the Placette compare to your Lamm preamp?

The Placette is hard to characterize in the usual
review gargon. It is open, fresh, engaging, clear,
and,yes, transparent. The Lamm is very similar, easy
to use and listen to. For balance the Lamm has two
volume controls, should we need boost unilaterally.
Only three inputs on the Placette, barely enough:
CD, phono and tuner. No tape loop. But what is there
is clear, the best. No need for balance control so far.
If needed, told it is an add-on available. No frills.
No extras. But what is here is honest, useful, musical.

FWIW, Friends, I found that a balance control settles the
mind. Where some music is predominently heavy to one side,
it is comforting to be able to adjust/re-evaluate and
judge for myself what sounds best. Aging tubes, different
wire, new components may require a shift in control.
Not having that option is just silly! It may end up
tipping the scale between pre-amp purchases. Just like
to have or have not a remote. So I got it added. BG

According to very many passive linestage aficionados the Placette is the best.

But according to Placette their active unit is better than the passive.

Having owned both the Placette passive and active, I can verify both of Paul's points.