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passive preamp with transformer volume control - how good?

post #1 of 3
10/2/06 at 5:55pm
Thread Starter 
hi,

does anyone have experience with a transformer volume control amp/preamp vs a good stepped attenuator (ex. DACT)?

i am considering something like this:
http://www.promitheusaudio.com/tvc.htm

it is just 400$ shipped even for the balanced version. this costs about as much as a DACT balanced passive preamp...

question is, how do TVCs compare to stepped attenuators? what are the pros cons?

thanks!
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post #2 of 3
10/2/06 at 6:32pm
Quote:
Originally Posted by choariwap
hi,

does anyone have experience with a transformer volume control amp/preamp vs a good stepped attenuator (ex. DACT)?

i am considering something like this:
http://www.promitheusaudio.com/tvc.htm

it is just 400$ shipped even for the balanced version. this costs about as much as a DACT balanced passive preamp...

question is, how do TVCs compare to stepped attenuators? what are the pros cons?

thanks!

I was going to go with a DACT balanced and now I am strongly considering a Presonus Central Station as a preamp, DAC, head amp(x2) and it apparently amazing balanced volume control. There is a good thread here about it. It is ugly though.
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post #3 of 3
10/2/06 at 7:27pm
Quote:
Originally Posted by choariwap
hi,

does anyone have experience with a transformer volume control amp/preamp vs a good stepped attenuator (ex. DACT)?

i am considering something like this:
http://www.promitheusaudio.com/tvc.htm

it is just 400$ shipped even for the balanced version. this costs about as much as a DACT balanced passive preamp...

question is, how do TVCs compare to stepped attenuators? what are the pros cons?

thanks!
I used to own the Bent Audio Noh silver TVC, which is a great-sounding unit. I used to also own a couple of different traditional "passive preamp" in a box and still own two different versions of EVS attenuators, including the "nude" version.

There is a fundamental difference to the presentation using transformer vs. resistors. While most TVC's will sound "better," purer, smoother, with better bass compared to your average "passive-in-a-box," I still preferred either direct connection and/or EVS "nude" attenuators, which is as simple as it gets with one less interconnect to introduce capacitance. The sound reflects the simplicity in having more resolution, neutrality, and transparency. Remember, TVC is essentially a VERy, very, very long piece of wire...

In the end, you just have to try some and decide for yourself in your system.
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