Check out Tortuga Audio. https://tortugaaudio.com/
Mine sounds great to me and to many that have heard it.
Passive preamp
Hello. I wanted to learn more about running a preamp in passive mode versus active mode. Am I correct in thinking that passive mode means it is not altering the audio signal? My question relates to a Schiit Frida s that I am using in passive mode, using it essentially as a switching device. Am I missing anything?.
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@jjss49 I thought all MDX board M3 units are remote control ready. But verify with Bricasti. |
Hello everyone, I would like to share my experience with the Khozmo AVC Passive Preamp. It has been over a month since I introduced the copper AVC version into my system, and I have been deeply impressed. In my audiophile journey, I have primarily used integrated amplifiers and was generally quite happy with them. Recently, I had the opportunity to audition two standalone preamplifiers in my system: a Trafomatic Evolution Line One and a Pass Labs XP-10. While both offered a nice improvement, I ultimately decided against the purchase. Much like the preamp stage of my integrated, I felt they added a certain "artificial buffer" or manipulation to the sound. It is difficult to explain, but it felt like a layer of "beautifying" that, especially for certain genres, seemed/felt unnecessary. My System:
Adding the Khozmo AVC allowed me to bypass the integrated's preamp stage and use the Pureaudio strictly as a power amp. I am using 1m RCA cables from the DAC to the Khozmo, and 0.5m RCAs from the Khozmo to the amplifier. The improvements were immediate and substantial. Beyond the precision of the volume adjustment, the level of transparency is tremendous. It allows the music to emerge with more detail, greater impact/PRAT, and better grip. Above all, the presentation is much more "natural." The sound feels smoother and unrestricted, free from any artificial buffering. For the first time, I have the distinct feeling that I am hearing the true, original sound signature of my Mojo DAC, which was my primary goal. The technical synergy (input/output impedance and voltage) between the Khozmo and my DAC/Amp was checked and approved by Arek at Khozmo beforehand. I can confirm there is no loss of dynamics or excitement; in fact, it’s quite the opposite. The music feels more lively, especially during late-night listening at lower volumes. I’m not sure if it’s the AVC design itself, but the energy and impact are beautifully preserved even at low levels. I also want to mention the excellent support I received from Arek. He is highly knowledgeable and assisted me patiently throughout the ordering process. If you have a mid-to-high-end system, I strongly recommend asking Arek to install the pure copper RCA sockets. I compared them to the standard gold-plated brass ones and found the copper sockets offer a bit more solidity and a smoother flow. The build quality and tactile feel (including the remote) are top. I am powering the Khozmo (for the screen and remote functions only) with a 5V linear power supply. While perhaps not strictly necessary, I wanted to avoid introducing a switching power supply to the same circuit as my audio gear. Keep in mind you can use the Khozmo without power at all if you prefer to adjust the volume manually. Ultimately, considering the price-to-performance ratio, this has been one of the best surprises of my audiophile journey. If your technical specs allow for a passive preamp, I definitely recommend giving Khozmo a try. I’d also like to thank Benjamin from Mojo for the recommendation; he enjoyed the Khozmo in his own system as well (picture from his system attached). Well done, Khozmo! https://photos.app.goo.gl/RuMmN7AVRkKEL4bs8 |
- 27 posts total