The problem is that the changing impedance levels of a passive preamp can cause coloration. That's why they usually seem to lack dynamics at lower listening levels. The Ayre sounds excellent at any volume level.
FWIW The mechanical switch on the Ayre only comes online to change the volume, then it is silent again. In fact, it is adjustable on a per input basis so theoretically you never need to change the volume again after you've set it to the right levels for each component that you normally listen to.
FWIW The mechanical switch on the Ayre only comes online to change the volume, then it is silent again. In fact, it is adjustable on a per input basis so theoretically you never need to change the volume again after you've set it to the right levels for each component that you normally listen to.