tube amp vol control vs. preamp


What are your experiences regarding bypassing a preamp and using tube amp volume controls? A distributor stated that by installing the mating preamp to my mono's with volume control that everything would be much, much better. I had a tubed preamp connected initially and had lots of noise. Dead quiet using amps only and sounds great as is with high eff speakers. Could it be that much better using matching preamp. Your experiences are greatly appreciated.
twc

Showing 1 response by montytx

It could go either way. I tend to prefer a modest amount of preamp gain, generally. Depending on the input impedence characteristics of your amplifier and the output impedence characteristics of the prospective preamp, as well as the quality and complimentary nature of the two, it is certainly possible that you would notice an improvement.

If the dealer is willing to make the sweeping claim that it will give an improvement then he should be willing to let you try the combination for yourself.

Absolutely try it if he offers a no strings audition.