2. amps-preamps
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Modern Linestages

This is a general question about how complex and expensive some linestages have become. I'm looking to understand why? I can grasp that really good volume controls are complicated and that equally good switches are not inexpensive. I also have a general understanding of the importance of a high quality power supply, which again is not going to come cheap. I just don't comprehend how you get to a 50lbs. plus preamps that cost well over $20k. Is this level of complexity really needed or is it the equivalent of the spate of 500hp "sedans" for every day driving?
128x128onhwy61
pubul57
3,712 posts
 
I can see the appeal of freedom, but not particularly interested in being a fool unless absolutely necessary. I am still only slightly foolish when it comes to cables and power cords:)
unsound
7,318 posts
 
I can understand some need for complexity, if there is regulation, surround sound decoding, bass management, room correction, etc.. I think we all understand that a good power supply is a plus, but just how stiff a power supply does a line stage need?
pubul57
3,712 posts
 
"Pay no attention to that man behind the curtain."
swampwalker's avatar
swampwalker
5,138 posts
 
I am still only slightly foolish when it comes to cables and power cords
As for me: cables- slightly foolish
power cords- more than slightly foolish...
just how stiff a power supply does a line stage need?
I have zero knowledge about circuit design but I do not think that that is the case.
georgehifi's avatar
georgehifi
10,312 posts
 
Active preamps are to me a dinosaur left over from the analogue days, when one needed an riaa stage in the preamp and then another gain stage to get the voltage up to the input sensitivity of the poweramps they were to drive.
Today's sources cd, tuners, ipods, phono stages. etc: have enough output to drive the poweramps directly even into overdrive.
So all that's needed is an attenuator between them to attenuate the level, there is no need for active preamps with gain stages as there is no gain needed between today's sources and poweramps.

Cheers George
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