Do Passive Pre-Amps 'Limit' the Lower-Mids?

The following is from a comparison between an active (ARC-LS3) pre-amp and passive or pre-amp less system-operation; "Connecting a source-component directly to one's amp is no panacea for sonic realism, in my experience. It can even be a deterrent as the life and body of the sound can be sucked out of a system which is perfectly capable of LIFELIKE reproduction. What is left is a thoroughly competent sound that is crisp and clear but dry and analytical, and also bereft of lower-midrange body, liquid-lucidity and lifelike-musicallity..." The full 'review' is at: Active vs Passive Pre