Sound of transformers in preamps?


Many of the highest rated preamps around seem to have transformers in the audio chain. The Dude and Coincident tube preamps seem to kick ass when compared to other tube amps and the solid state McCormack VRE-1 is sometimes considered to be the best too. All of these preamps are said to have transformers. Is there a sonic difference with the transformers? What is the subjective difference?
rsimms

Showing 2 responses by philipwu

well then, what is the significant advantage since there has been quite a number using transformer for volume switching and output coupled? do resistors has unstable impedance and cause freq response fluctuation due to feedback from amp? Thanks
Generally resistors base pre will have more dynamics and midrange than transformer pre. but transformers will outshine in areas like transparency and detail, just my 2 cents. i think it would be hard to notice their musical differences between the two if they are both well design, you need to strain your ears to hear the differences, i guess.
BTW, are you sure Dude has transformers in signal paths?