This lack of a basic feature, is also present in high-end SACD players. A fundamental feature of SACD is multi-channel. Even Esoteric has done this. Could it be most audiophiles are intimidated by the multi-channel setup? And if you don't care, then set the player for 2 CH and be happy. To think you pay lots more for a high-end player but get lots less is absurd. I guess I'll be sticking with my Oppo 105D for a long time.
No Tape/Processor Loop????
While tape recorders are of little interest for most users these days, the need for a Processor loop is still with us. If you want to take advantage of an Equalizer, DSP room correction, Phono noise reduction, and of course, a tape recorder, you'll still need a classic tape monitor function. I was using a DEQx processor, and today I use a Sweet Vinyl SC-1 Mini.
There are many high-end preamps which have dropped this essential function: Nagra HD; Luxman C900, C1000; VAC Signature SE (some replaced the Monitor with a logo dimmer!!!) and on and on. The lack of a monitor immediately removes their unit for consideration.
Placing the SC-1 mini in line with the low level phono is compromised on two levels: very low signal, and multiple extra connections when not in use.
Placing a processor between the pre and power amps is unacceptable because the signal out of the preamp may be very low, inhibiting the full range digitial signal processing capability or low-noise performance of the processor.
There are many high-end preamps which have dropped this essential function: Nagra HD; Luxman C900, C1000; VAC Signature SE (some replaced the Monitor with a logo dimmer!!!) and on and on. The lack of a monitor immediately removes their unit for consideration.
Placing the SC-1 mini in line with the low level phono is compromised on two levels: very low signal, and multiple extra connections when not in use.
Placing a processor between the pre and power amps is unacceptable because the signal out of the preamp may be very low, inhibiting the full range digitial signal processing capability or low-noise performance of the processor.
7 responses Add your response
I'm a stereo guy. I'm a Mac guy. I use an active OXO for the bass 300 hz < Channel A is split and the subs and OXO are hooked there. Channel B is for the monitors, they are, split and do active subs, also. I have a line level out, non switched also. That's 3 pairs of stereo out. Nothing in the signal path between my monitors either, they use a passive XO. The cut off are built into the onboard xo, ay... Best of both worlds... Why do you need a tape loop? You could also split the pre from the amp if you have a tap, and do it from there too.. I have plans for a ZPre3 in a tape loop on my C20. It will add all kinds of goodies, sub out volume control, REMOTE control, with volume control... I like it.. Might be other ways too, someone will chime in. Regards... |
@oldhvymec your setup is fine. A subwoofer or active crossover is by its’ nature a full time connection which needs to be driven by the volume adjusted signal. Use of a processor may be an optional item and if the processor uses digital processing, it is highly undesirable to drive it with a volume adjusted signal. Hence, you need a processor/tape loop which feeds a line-level signal at all times and can be switched in and out at will. |
Use of a processor may be an optional item and if the processor uses digital processing, it is highly undesirable to drive it with a volume adjusted signal. Hence, you need a processor/tape loop which feeds a line-level signal at all times and can be switched in and out at will.
Why? It is a Active OXO and split at 300 hz. Passive from there up. Yes it uses a processor from there down, Why would the volume control have anything to do with being "undesirable"? What is undesirable is to use an EQ, at all! Unless you want something of very low build quality, in the WHOLE signal path. Bottom to Top... Add an EQ.. I offer a solution that, addresses probably the biggest contributor to distortion... BAD BASS.. And propper bass management... No Eq needed, only tone control from the pre... The system I spoke of, is a just way to use a tape loop also, along with actual tape monitoring... I guess love the loop it the topic.... LOL Regards.. |
I know what you mean. I've expressed concern about this to designers. I've kept my old pre amp plugged into one line in just so that I could access that feature. I need it for my R2R, CD recorder, dBx 119 compander for compressing movie sound so I can hear dialogue without waking the dead,.tube buffer & 3D, RG1 expander (R.I.P. Roger) and a Loki EQ for low level loudness control, all selectable through a dBx 400 matrix. Old school remoteless but better than the alternative - nothing. |
My Revelation II has 2 tape loops with 2 selector switches. I use 'em all. Made my own plexiglass top. 35 years ago. https://www.stereophile.com/content/superphon-revelation-preamplifier-anthony-h-cordesman |
