If you really like the SP12 don't change it, just get a remote volume control like the Creek 12, or for higher quality a one input Placette, and put it in the tape loop. I did that with my old SP10 and only used it when necessary by flipping the tape monitor switch. FWIW.
If all you are doing now is listening to digital files the one input Placette, a passive unit w/remote which costs about $650, might be all you need. It is very high quality and if you keep the IC's short you probably have no need for anything else. And, I think, many would actually prefer the sound over that of the SP12.
If all you are doing now is listening to digital files the one input Placette, a passive unit w/remote which costs about $650, might be all you need. It is very high quality and if you keep the IC's short you probably have no need for anything else. And, I think, many would actually prefer the sound over that of the SP12.