Passive Preamps? Anyone?

Don't underestimate the Channel Island passive preamps, they are very good.

I have tried most of the 5 recommended above, and a few others. They ALL left me with great detail but no warmth or body to the music, though the TVS types were by far the most natural sounding.

I am now using a Raysonic 168 CD player, which has a terrific variable tube output stage. I run it via the balanced output. It equalled a $3K preamp, so I sold it. Also, the output stage can be modified by Underwood HiFi. Something I am considering, thinking it is my weakest link. BUT, I just replaced the power cord to my amp with a new Tek Line Cable Reference power cord, the sound is much more organic. I need another one for my 168. After that I'll decide whether I need the mod.

Hello, You can also add Goldpoint attenuators http://www.goldpt.com/
to your list of candidates. They come complete/built or as a kit. Several versions including balanced XLRs. Comes with one, two or four inputs along with other options available.

Bob

Two others that you can try the McCormack TLC-1 and the McCormack Micro Line Drive. The TLC offers a passive and a buffered output while the Micro L/D offers a passive and an active output, the active output has an adjustable output of +/-6bd of gain. This will give you the option of deciding weather you like active or passive preamp's. Plus if you so chose you can have it upgraded at SMC Audio. I have a TLC and 2 Micro's one upgraded to Gold and the upgrade was well worth the money. For less than $1K the upgraded Micro gives the TLC a run for its money. I use the TLC because it has more inputs that I need. I'm scheduled to have the TLC upgraded with all the goodies after the new year, if you were curious.

Thanks everyone for the thoughtful responses! I'll start checking into these options.