2. amps-preamps
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Why do the Audio Note preamps sound so much better

I took Joe over at JC Audio up on the offer of a shoot out. Actually it was the second time. About nine months ago I went over and had a shoot out between my EVS Nude Attenuators and the Kora triode preamp. I have to give Joe credit he agreed if you could live with the inconvenience and lack of flexibility that the EVS attenuators sounded as good.

But I made a bad mistake today. I went over and did the same shoot out with the Audio Note M5. I should have never done this. The M5 made the attenuators sound dry and lifeless. The M5 sounded prettier with much more top in extension without ever sounding bright. It was more transparent and fuller bodied at the same time. And the layering and the soundstageing was just beautiful. This is disturbing to me for I have been a big proponent of passive, especially the attenuators since you even eliminate a set of interconnects and a power cord. Why does this line stage sound so much better.
bilbondo6734

Showing 1 response by trelja

trelja
3,223 posts
 
Rcprince hit the nail on the head. As usual.

I am a huge fan of Audio Note. No, it is not cheap. But, like Jadis, I believe it offers REAL value. That is because it is one of the few marques that can be considered a last purchase. The purchase is made, the component is inserted, and it is simply enjoyed. Hour upon hour, year after year. They are not for audiophiles so much as music lovers. They are not meant to impress in terms of calling attention to themselves. They are components who want music to sound like music; real, natural, organic.

To my love for the components of Audio Note and Jadis, I have also found the same thing true of my Blue Circle preamp. Just as Peter described of the AN, I have found in the BC preamp. I doubt I will ever sell my Jadis or Blue Circle components, they are lifetime companions. And, one day, I will also own an Audio Note pre or power amp.
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