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1: Re: Is a passive volume control a good option for me? (8.30)
Posted by JimBop on 2003-12-10, 08:23:35 (161.114.1.181)
I have been using a Wright Sound 6SN7 tube preamp with a pair of Wright Sound 2A3 amps. I recently replaced the Wright preamp with a Bent Audio transformer volume control, and the results were very po .......
2: RE: 600Ω (8.30)
Posted by djk on 2014-03-25, 14:47:52 (205.175.225.12)
Perhaps you should investigate transformer volume controls, or using a 6dB step-up transformer with a single series resistor volume control with a variable parallel ladder (fewer switch contacts and r .......
3: I think I would take a different approach (8.14)
Posted by Mike B. on 2007-09-10, 11:40:26 (63.224.203.46)
get a used Prometheus transformer based preamp and remove the volume control from your amp. It is simple to do. Take the incoming wire to the amp volume and solder it to the middle tab (output). The t .......
4: RE: Why oh why do you want to add a transformer? (8.11)
Posted by Tom Gnade on 2010-02-08, 15:42:15 (68.48.134.123)
I dont have any way to control the volume right now, so I need to do something. I've considered two options, either an active tube preamp using the 26 (Gary Pimm), or a passive. If I'm going passive, .......
5: Mystere Transformer (8.05)
Posted by Coach on 2016-10-02, 18:26:16 (99.170.97.243)
Could someone that has this pre amp tell me does the transformer on theirs get hot or runs cool. I recently had to have mine repaired because the transformer burned out. First there was this smell, th .......
6: RE: Mystere Transformer (8.01)
Posted by Coach on 2016-10-02, 18:29:58 (99.170.97.243)
Could someone that has this pre amp tell me does the transformer on theirs get hot or runs cool. I recently had to have mine repaired because the transformer burned out. First there was this smell, th .......
7: Pre-amp / Volume Control Sounds (8.01)
Posted by william H. on 2004-05-12, 07:14:53 (162.40.75.63)
Hi all, I would like some input and opinions on the sound effect of certain types of volume controls. I have used a S&B tx102 transformer based volume control as well as the Dodd Audio tube based unit .......
8: Re: What about ASL with autoformers? (7.88)
Posted by Paul L on 2003-02-18, 10:45:23 (142.154.196.102)
Actually Guy of Placette has spoken out about the transformer base passive in another thread that I completely agree with. I applaude his courage to speaking out since so many people are favouring tra .......
9: Re: World's Simplest, Good Sounding Active Pre? (7.81)
Posted by Jim in Blacksburg on 2006-03-17, 05:41:55 (198.82.29.140)
I had heard about transformer-based volume controls, but I honestly, I'm not quite sure exactly what kind of transformers I need - and the kits I've seen marketed as "transformer volume controls" are .......
10: Some questions about transformer-based passives (7.66)
Posted by LarryB on 2003-10-28, 07:42:12 (206.231.80.2)
I have heard some wonderful things about transformer-based passive linestages, and have briefly tried two of them at home, though not with my current system. (For the sake of discussion, I use the ter .......
11: several options... (7.63)
Posted by Larry I on 2011-12-29, 18:58:31 (38.100.19.236)
There are some light-sensitive resistors (e.g., "lightspeed") that can be bought as kits that offer passive volume control via a remote. The one a friend purchased has a very useful range of volume c .......
12: The perfect turns ratio for your cartridge... (7.59)
Posted by EdAInWestOC on 2018-10-22, 12:04:07 (73.212.45.139)
Would be a 1:15 stepup transformer. You might be able to get away with a 1:10 transformer but you might find the output to be a little low. On LPs that are mastered at a very low volume you may have n .......
13: Re: Resistor based passives vs. transformer based. (7.44)
Posted by laznos on 2005-05-31, 23:58:04 (68.49.187.199)
The transformer/autoformer volume controls lower impedance and increase current as attenuation is increased. Resistors dissipate heat when attenuation is increased. Good transformers will passively gi .......
14: RE: Transformer size and power rating (7.19)
Posted by AbeCollins on 2010-08-29, 15:17:43 (71.229.129.165)
Sounds fishy to me. My 50wpc Krell KSA-50s amp had an 800VA power supply transformer. I measured power consumption at the AC mains outlet as I cranked up the volume on this "little" Krell. At one poi .......
15: RE: scientific reason why passive pre sounds bass shy? (7.12)
Posted by rogerh113 on 2019-08-05, 07:10:13 (198.144.203.126)
Well, I don't know how scientific. There are 2 variants of passives that I know about - resistive and transformer. I have had both, and still have the transformer. Resistive passives effectively atten .......
16: Re: TVC vs. resistive passive (7.12)
Posted by Joao on 2007-04-30, 00:25:04 (84.154.217.14)
Dear Kenster, please let me make a correction: >> No. An autoformer is just a multi-tapped transformer. Each stepped volume increment is an isolated winding on the secondary of the transformer. A real .......
17: Re: TVC vs. resistive passive (6.99)
Posted by kenster on 2007-04-29, 19:50:07 (71.222.167.229)
"While I suppose they are both considered passive magnetic, aren't there some differences between how an autoformer and transformer volume control work?" No. An autoformer is just a multi-tapped trans .......
18: RE: Transformer Volume Control - also AVC's which are Autoformer Volume Controls. (6.98)
Posted by rottenclam on 2013-10-28, 07:49:49 (12.22.22.13)
Yeah - sorry for not being more clear. I perhaps assume too much with some of the Audiophile lexicon. There are a variety of analog ways to control volume (carbon based volume "pots", resistor based v .......
19: Re: Best volume control for a passive pre? (6.94)
Posted by Sampsa on 2004-04-08, 12:51:43 (128.59.215.193)
Check out transformer volume controls (TVC). diyhifisupply.com sells a kit called Django. .......
20: RE: Transformer Volume Control - also AVC's which are Autoformer Volume Controls. (6.84)
Posted by Jerry P on 2013-10-28, 04:36:36 (108.66.27.15)
Thanks I Googled TVC and came up with nothing. Jerry P .......
21: Constant input impedance. (6.82)
Posted by sbrians on 2013-10-25, 13:17:36 (206.190.70.130)
It is my understanding (I used to have a Sonic Euphoria PLC unit on which I base this response) that as the volume control is turned down, the output impedance goes down (voltage is converted to curre .......
22: RE: Ideal? (6.69)
Posted by AbeCollins on 2018-05-09, 07:53:49 (174.255.7.171)
IMHO, transformer based volume controls with sufficient range are difficult and expensive to implement WITH a remote control. When I think of buying a preamp, I also take into consideration my use ca .......
23: RE: Why manufacturers are so mysterious about power amps consumption ? (6.64)
Posted by Caucasian Blackplate on 2013-12-16, 20:26:11 (98.247.159.29)
Yes, let's say you have a 400VA transformer that is designed to give two 50V windings at 4A each. If you draw 500mA from each winding, that voltage will rise. How much it rises depends quite a bit on .......
24: RE: The SP20 is really nice (at 4X the cost) (6.63)
Posted by morricab on 2022-06-10, 02:11:53 (213.55.226.157)
BAT makes a very good preamp. Aesthetix too. Not as big a fan of CJ or VAC pres. Check these out though for something different: https://aries-cerat.com/incito-product-page/ https://aries-cerat.com/in .......
25: Transformer Volume Control - also AVC's which are Autoformer Volume Controls. (6.63)
Posted by Rick W on 2013-10-27, 11:15:31 (108.35.176.122)
Google Intact Audio, Music First Audio, DIY Hifi Supply Django among others. .......
26: Review of new shielding retrofit for Vacuum State SVP1 preamp (6.59)
Posted by Canadian Canuck on 2007-08-04, 19:31:00 (216.221.44.254)
Just wanted to let you guys know that there is a new shielding that covers the side of the transformer in the SVP1. My rep and I retrofitted it just a few days ago. The shielding is a thin long strip .......
27: Worn volume pots on an anothewise perfect Rotel (6.46)
Posted by agnostic on 2005-06-15, 13:52:36 (84.67.211.22)
Rotel RA-820BX4 - this was a 'minimalist' incarnation of one of Rotel's generic integrated amps, with no tone-controls and a hefty toroidal transformer in place of E-frame. Mine is recently acquired, .......
28: RE: EMI ? (6.37)
Posted by Thorsten on 2010-08-23, 05:22:27 (95.154.215.2)
Hi, > I've heard that transformers emit EMI, Interesting. Have you heard that these transformers actually generate this EMI in a way that is not related to the signal in mysterious ways? Or could it m .......
29: RE: scientific reason why passive pre sounds bass shy? (6.33)
Posted by Tre' on 2019-08-06, 08:04:34 (76.90.36.216)
I share your experience. The source components needs to able to drive the transformer's (in my case autoformer's) input impedance. An impedance at the low frequencies that is dictated by the amount of .......
30: Teac AH500 Amp toroid gets hot (6.24)
Posted by petercam on 2013-11-26, 07:03:17 (87.113.110.22)
I have a Teac AH500 amp and when on even a relatively low volume, it generates a lot of heat from the toroidal transformer (massive transformer in the middle of the amp). I recently bought this system .......
31: Re: Apples and bananas (6.22)
Posted by Victor Khomenko on 2003-04-26, 12:15:50 (204.183.93.128)
That is good point about the output impedance of the transformer volume control. They however present their own set of problems, as nothing is free lunch. Their frequency response may change in differ .......
32: I used to own one... (6.21)
Posted by clio09 on 2007-12-07, 17:05:29 (71.91.7.92)
and the article you are referencing is by Lynn Olson (which was actually about the previous model the M24). First, do you want to use this as a DAC only, with your own active preamp performing the in .......
33: Bent Audio (6.13)
Posted by MozartRules on 2002-10-27, 15:37:40 (67.82.24.121)
Bent Audio (www.bentaudio.cam) TAP system is a very elegant solution to running passive and has remote. The actual attenuation can be resistor or transformer based. Bent Audio is also working on addin .......
34: That might be correct (6.11)
Posted by Ralph on 2015-07-16, 12:50:07 (64.122.72.31)
You will want to see what the input impedance actually is. It is is 1 or 2K you will be alright (the transformer is designed for 600, not 500 ohms). If the input is 10K you will want to place a resist .......
35: RE: TVC's (5.99)
Posted by RioTubes on 2009-04-13, 07:22:36 (76.89.130.206)
As Abe said, if you have sufficient gain then you don't need 6db which some say is not as transparent. But the TVC's I'm aware of allow you to set the gain to one or the other. If there is no switch o .......
36: Amplifier transformer hum: what to do? (5.98)
Posted by Feanor on 2004-06-24, 09:55:00 (204.101.88.2)
I have tried several amplifiers in my system and they all show transformer hum; (there's no hum from the speakers). Clearly this isn't the fault of the particular amp. The hum often increase after the .......
37: "The double knob thing" What do you mean? (5.96)
Posted by Frihed89 on 2008-04-17, 16:51:45 (87.53.108.41)
Right and left channel volume are each controlled by Shallco attenuators. You won't find better. They work perfectly at all volume levels, unlike all volume pots and most other attenuators. More impor .......
38: Re: Audio Aero Capitole MKII CD Player mated to KRELL KRC-3 Pre-Amp (5.94)
Posted by sogood on 2003-04-22, 18:57:50 (68.60.140.224)
What is the output of the audio aero? can it drive the krell to full power? I have a krell ksa-250 that I use a passive transformer volume control with. I would say you will have to listen first, the .......
39: Seriously unlikely it Can sound better (5.91)
Posted by bare on 2019-02-22, 08:34:58 (99.199.7.70)
Little (if anything) outperforms transformer Volume controls. .......
40: I am getting hum through speakers too (5.88)
Posted by Lemonbishop on 2007-12-25, 13:32:06 (69.109.249.229)
First of all thanks for the info so far. It definitely makes noise without speakers connected, but I getting hum through the speakers as well. The hum is there through the speakers even with the volu .......
41: RE: Audio Nirvana 300B amp? (5.88)
Posted by Palustris on 2016-03-18, 11:18:42 (200.123.215.113)
The most important component in a 300B amp is the output transformer. All the rest is important but it is the output transformer that is the key component. The advt. says they are wound "in house" but .......
42: RE: Passives - ? (5.87)
Posted by Tre' on 2016-05-04, 17:11:23 (76.90.39.24)
A passive line stage preamp (in it's simplest form) is just a pot or stepped attenuator or a transformer volume control or a autoformer volume control in a box with input and output jacks and a input .......
43: Have any V12 users experienced "break-in" with "R" upgrade? (5.87)
Posted by uw312@aol.com on 2003-11-08, 08:44:00 (205.188.208.9)
I was just kind of curious. It's only been a week or so since my upgraded V12 has gotten back and probably only has about 15 hours or so on it. (I should also point out that in addition to the upgrade .......
44: Have you considered a transformer based volume control?(nt) (5.86)
Posted by Russ57 on 2007-08-21, 21:54:00 (209.214.21.59)
. .......
45: here's something else to consider (5.83)
Posted by Joe Murphy Jr on 2009-12-19, 22:48:42 (74.251.24.125)
TVC -- Transformer Volume Control .......
46: Re: Volume control research (5.83)
Posted by Alex M on 2006-10-03, 03:21:43 (139.166.240.239)
Here are a few notes I made while I was in the early stages of planning my own DIY preamp. They are a little out of date, and I am now aware of a few other options that I hadn't come across at the tim .......
47: RE: Passive Preamp (Transformer Based) (5.79)
Posted by rick_m on 2014-06-19, 22:07:27 (96.25.74.167)
Well... You are right a Zo=500ohms is prolly fine. But I think what the 500 ohm Spec. really means is that's the general impedance region the transformer is designed for. What can really be achieved .......
48: Re: passive balanced (5.78)
Posted by MozartRules on 2002-10-04, 08:04:26 (65.172.180.61)
Reasonable priced is of course a matter of opinion, but you could look at the transformer based volume controls (TVC) that Bent Audio is selling (www.bentaudio.com). The transformers take care of both .......
49: Passive transformer preamp Vs. line stage? (5.77)
Posted by Tom R. on 2005-03-21, 04:51:29 (12.166.216.139)
I am thinking of building a passive transformer preamp as seen in AudioXpress, Jan 05. I will use it as volume control and to step up the gain betweena Sony 777ES CDP / Audionote DAC an Cary SLM 70 mo .......
50: RE: Help with use of passive preamp (5.77)
Posted by r.crawley@ntlworld.com on 2008-11-29, 13:59:17 (86.143.43.155)
A passive pre. will have a volume control to attenuate the output to the level you need. However, impedance matching of the components you use (among other things) is vital to good sound. I use a TVC .......
51: A lot. (5.76)
Posted by Larry I on 2010-09-15, 05:57:47 (38.100.19.236)
On the fundamental question of passive vs. active gain vs. active unity buffer, the answer depends, in part on how much one is willing to spend. Even in systems with short interconnect distances and a .......
52: uw312@aol.com: That is correct... (5.73)
Posted by LarryB on 2003-11-24, 13:08:04 (206.231.80.2)
...a passive merely allows source switching and volume attenuation; for this reason, "preamplifier" is a misnomer - - they are more correctly called passive linestages. There are two main "flavors" of .......
53: Need more info. (5.71)
Posted by Larry I on 2008-08-07, 06:14:39 (65.205.15.220)
A bit more information would be needed to make suggestions. How many sources, and what kind are they? How many outputs do you need? For use in a pure sound system or is home theater involved? Do you n .......
54: RE: Freya+ running hot (5.69)
Posted by mlsstl on 2020-09-17, 09:55:11 (12.201.172.126)
Have to say this would concern me a bit (though I'm not in the market to buy a preamp right now.) I've owned and worked on a lot of tube equipment over my 50+ years in this hobby -- I started buildin .......
55: Re: Apples and bananas (5.68)
Posted by Ehien on 2003-04-26, 11:45:41 (208.41.43.238)
Victor, I agree what you said regarding resistor-based passive preamp. But don't forget that in the case of passive transformer volume control (TVC), that buffer is likely never needed. With TVC, typi .......
56: RE: My preamp must go! Any good passives out there? (5.67)
Posted by egidius on 2012-06-20, 16:05:43 (92.104.148.77)
I love my silver rock transformer volume solution.. .......
57: Re: Theres are original Quad II's.. only a 15k impedence. (5.66)
Posted by Joao on 2006-07-02, 22:58:45 (217.185.21.133)
Daniel, if the source impedance of your CD-Player/DAC/Phono Stage is around 600 ohms this should be no problem. I speak here about passive preamps with TVC (Transformer Volume Conrol. With a pasive pr .......
58: RE: Placette RVC's Volume Steps (5.65)
Posted by AbeCollins on 2008-07-27, 11:14:21 (67.177.242.32)
The audio level change to the ear is the same from step to step. The Placette is one of the very few (maybe the only) passive controllers with so many discrete steps. You cannot achieve this with a pr .......
59: Re: Some questions about transformer-based passives (5.63)
Posted by Revelator on 2003-10-28, 12:34:04 (132.170.85.183)
I've been using a Sowter 9395? TVC with Grayhill 24-stepped attenuator switch. The best to describe it would be a wire volume control that attenuates but doesn't add or take anything out of the signal .......
60: Passive volume controls Rule (5.63)
Posted by sendler on 2006-02-07, 18:01:16 (71.255.34.62)
With most modern sources easily able to drive the lower impedences of passives and putting out more level than most amps need to achieve full power, the only disadvantage a passive volume control has .......
61: RE: Resistor Based Volume Control vs. What? (5.62)
Posted by bare on 2018-05-05, 17:18:42 (50.92.32.238)
Resistors? As in a trad Volume pot or the Current favoured Stepped attenuators? They work Fine. LED and digital ? IMO a Waste 'o time/$$ (unless selling the Junk). Transformer types are a wee bit bet .......
62: RE: TVC sounds better with volume turned up? (5.61)
Posted by Thorsten on 2013-11-10, 23:01:12 (193.150.8.137)
Hi, It is all about system context. The first TVC's (S&B + Sowter) were specified, designed and implemented to be literally "a wire". Most that followed copied those, so you have many TVC's that all .......
63: CD player only? Go passive. (5.61)
Posted by Quiet Earth on 2007-03-30, 15:38:30 (69.105.85.100)
If you are only going to control the volume of a CD player, then you will be better off getting a passive volume control. I recently sold my old SA.5.1 for this very reason. For quite some time, the 5 .......
64: Re: Denon 3805 + NADS250 + Magnepan MMG-W= BAD? (5.53)
Posted by kgturner on 2005-01-23, 11:46:56 (12.218.249.127)
1. That's similar to my issue. I have a pair of Cary SLM-200 monos connected to my Denon 3805. I too have an audible hum. However, my hum maintains a stable volume, regardless of the volume setting of .......
65: RE: Cary SE Power Bank- Capacitor Bank ??? (5.53)
Posted by Chip647 on 2013-02-01, 07:43:20 (146.18.173.101)
The general criticism of massive capacitance in tube amps is that, while it can make the bass louder at high volumes, it will rob the mid-range and high end of clarity as well as causing the bass to b .......
66: Can't help with comparison - but make sure you can use either within their optimal range. (5.50)
Posted by carcass93 on 2010-01-29, 08:13:59 (129.33.19.254)
That means, for instance in case of Reference Line 1B that I own, that your source should NOT be of too high output voltage. According to manual, it operates best when volume controls are past 12 (out .......
67: So, what is the best solution? (5.49)
Posted by darkstar on 2002-08-30, 06:32:30 (63.226.152.211)
Given the need for switching source, and volume control, there are a couple alternatives: 1) passive transformer based volume and simple switching 2) active preamplification The pluses on one side are .......
68: HCA2 amp (5.49)
Posted by Mellson on 2002-11-26, 07:58:23 (209.109.235.25)
can be purchased at 1200 or 1300 easily now from audiogon... I cannot find a better deal for you... you have 300 to 400 for a passive transformer volume control as a preamp... visit bentaudio.com for .......
69: What is the difference between ... (5.48)
Posted by JimBop (A) on 2003-10-30, 15:18:38 (161.114.1.182)
What is the difference between a transformer and an autoformer in a volume control or passive preamp application? Forgive me if this has been covered elsewhere. .......
70: Run a search for "TVC" (5.48)
Posted by Ewalaa on 2006-06-18, 16:53:13 (12.155.100.17)
Transformer volume control. S&B or Sowter. .......
71: Re: the Aleph 30 (5.48)
Posted by bilbobaggins on 2003-01-19, 20:05:08 (64.157.49.9)
I have my Aleph 30 connected to a passive pre, a DACT CT-2 attenuator hardwired to DIY Chris Venhaus Silver interconnects. The Dact attenuator and CVH silvers combo is very detailed, revealing and tra .......
72: here's a different opinion (5.47)
Posted by Joe Murphy Jr on 2011-05-26, 10:34:19 (24.179.58.245)
"Is there a weak point to the M24? Yes. It's the built-in volume control, which knocks down the quality of the linestage quite a bit. Thom and I were using the Dave Slagle autoformer volume control, .......
73: MA2275 & MC cartridge (5.43)
Posted by twotinears on 2013-02-09, 06:09:42 (24.63.27.238)
I just got a McIntosh MA2275 and I am using a Blackbird MC cartridge. The phono stage in the Mc is for MM and I have to turn the volume up too high. It generates "noise" at high volume - just through .......
74: Yes, but made under a different name. (5.43)
Posted by Quiet Earth on 2006-01-08, 18:54:16 (69.111.111.140)
I own a DIY HiFi Supply "Django" transformer volume control that is essentially the same thing. They both use Stevens and Billington TX102 dual mono transformers for attenuation. I messed around with .......
75: Re: TVC ?? (5.40)
Posted by Ewalaa on 2004-12-18, 05:10:09 (65.54.98.166)
Transformer volume control.......Sowter or S&B.....do a search...... It makes a killer preamp if you need no additional gain from source to amp. Ed .......
76: Brian is right (5.40)
Posted by Mike B. on 2010-09-14, 12:54:49 (97.125.125.164)
If you don't need gain or a buffer stage, look into the passives. I wouldn't go with those that just use a volume and selector switch. Check out the transformer based units. .......
77: RE: Sure (5.40)
Posted by AbeCollins on 2022-03-16, 08:27:54 (73.229.163.4)
Agree that chip based attenuators are the worse but... ..are there transformer volume controls with 256 taps and remote control in 0.5dB increments ? ;-) .......
78: DIY: Bent Audio or Sowter TVC <nt> (5.40)
Posted by Revelator on 2003-05-15, 10:54:36 (132.170.85.183)
TVC = Transformer Volume Control .......
79: Re: Don't think you've quite "comply with AA rules" (5.36)
Posted by Ozzy on 2004-01-14, 02:18:14 (63.146.251.103)
TVC=Transformer Volume Control Oz .......
80: RE: I think the Coincident Tech. is DHT. (5.36)
Posted by Blackdog on 2018-10-29, 14:51:10 (99.236.79.8)
Yes it is DHT. It also uses a transformer volume control (assuming the non-remote version) and output transformers. .......
81: Are you sure that it does? (5.36)
Posted by Julie's husband on 2002-12-12, 05:05:40 (68.54.227.104)
Volume controls come in many sizes and flavors. Many people are very happy with passive preamps, particular the new transformer-based units. I think most dedicated pres have better attenuators. ::: TO .......
82: RE: Hum in speakers because of Audible Illusion L2B? (5.35)
Posted by Frihed89 on 2012-09-02, 09:39:12 (62.44.134.162)
If the OP's digital source has enough gain, then a TVC (Transformer Volume Control) might be a good solution all the way around. .......
83: I had the same experience using a 20K passive potentiometer. (5.35)
Posted by Quiet Earth on 2006-01-08, 19:17:12 (69.111.111.140)
I don't know what value of potentiometer(s) your PSS uses but I do know this. It is typical for a passive potentiometer (and stepped resistor attenuator) to be a good match at some point in its volume .......
84: RE: How important is a big mains transformer? T+A amp guts don't match literature (5.34)
Posted by jwbrent on 2010-02-28, 14:23:12 (75.36.136.142)
When I was in the business, the company i worked for was a huge Krell dealer and we were trained by Krell that the size of the transformer was a large contributer to the sound of their amplifiers as w .......
85: Re: Remote control volume (5.33)
Posted by ahendler on 2005-08-22, 05:22:55 (65.42.74.201)
Try the Sonic Euphoria TLC with remote. This is a superb transformer based passive pre Alan .......
86: Re: Rothwell Attenuators (5.31)
Posted by Heavystarch on 2006-05-01, 11:01:47 (71.35.210.40)
you could try DACT stepped attenuators or a TVC (transformer volume control - quite a bit more expensive and tedious to implement). .......
87: RE: RCA (Pulled) Stereo Tube Amp Thoughts? (5.31)
Posted by Caucasian Blackplate on 2019-01-17, 08:06:06 (67.182.129.135)
The output transformers appear to be very different. For some old console amps, you could find multi-channel amps where one channel drove a woofer and the other channel drove the higher frequency driv .......
88: Re: Reviewers--Will one please do a shootout of these Passives? (5.30)
Posted by JimBop on 2003-05-13, 09:00:53 (161.114.56.101)
http://db.audioasylum.com/cgi/m.pl?forum=amp&n=16637&highlight=transformer+volume+control&r=&session= .......
89: Actually... (5.30)
Posted by ghost of olddude55 on 2020-12-30, 04:17:08 (108.39.196.215)
I rebuilt mine with a bigger power transformer. It was still pretty much hopeless. Sounded decent at low volume though. Then it blew up like both of the Stereo 70s I owned. .......
90: you can add gain with a passive (5.30)
Posted by bwb on 2012-04-24, 10:57:05 (68.179.142.95)
. if you use a transformer volume control you can add gain if it's wound to do that. I personally don't think it is the best way to get the gain you need but properly implemented even one with gain wi .......
91: RE: LIghtspeed Attenuator problems (5.30)
Posted by clio09 on 2009-07-21, 09:54:16 (68.96.221.2)
My Lightspeed was built for me by the designer George Stantscheff who uses closely matched optocouplers. He also built mine using dual volume controls. I'm not having any of the problems you mentioned .......
92: A serious alternative to the resistor-based passives... (5.29)
Posted by darkmoebius on 2005-09-04, 13:56:10 (68.4.36.158)
I've heard nothing but great stuff about the Placette's. But, there is a whole 'nother approach via Transformer Volume Controls (TVC). TVC's have the advantage of presenting a steady, constant, impede .......
93: Re: Some questions on your passive. (5.28)
Posted by Quiet Earth on 2006-01-09, 17:18:39 (69.105.203.84)
I got mine at DIYHiFiSupply.com . See the link below for the Django and it will explain all that I know about it. Be shure to click the link on the S&B transformer page when you get there for more inf .......
94: RE: Counterpoint SA-3000 in need of Repair Or time to move on (5.28)
Posted by bigkidz on 2012-06-22, 06:32:14 (69.123.226.252)
I am the person now listed on the Alta Vista Audio website for the east coast. If you want to ship your Counterpoint component to me in New Jersey, I can repair it. I just finished repairing and upgra .......
95: Re: TVC vs. resistive passive (5.28)
Posted by clio09 on 2007-04-29, 19:32:02 (12.107.18.54)
While I suppose they are both considered passive magnetic, aren't there some differences between how an autoformer and transformer volume control work? .......
96: Re: Volume levels? (5.27)
Posted by Revelator on 2004-02-02, 10:45:02 (132.170.85.183)
No, I don't think the amp would perform any better at higher volumes. I say this because most likely the NAD integrated is operating the output transistors in the "Class A" biased region -- at lower l .......
97: RE: Suggestion for a low gain SS amp? (5.26)
Posted by Palustris on 2017-11-07, 08:10:55 (73.69.43.42)
I have had the same speakers you have for about a year. The sound from them is spectacular with the correct amplification. That said, I am about to propose a very unpopular suggestion: these speakers .......
98: Re: World's Simplest, Good Sounding Active Pre? (5.26)
Posted by Ewalaa on 2006-03-17, 03:09:51 (12.155.101.121)
Search "TVC" (transformer volume control). They don't suffer the drawbacks associated with resistor based passives. E. .......
99: Hum's even without source inputs... (5.25)
Posted by varkdriver on 2003-01-19, 06:27:51 (66.167.95.131)
I tried connecting just the amp/preamp and I still get the 60hz hum. Loud, not subtle and volume independent. The transformer should have fixed this, I'm lost... .......
100: RE: Ideal? (5.23)
Posted by Dynobot on 2018-05-09, 10:39:48 (206.209.103.73)
I agree, remote controlled transformer based preamps are few and far between. Some people might chat and use their software to control the volume of they don't have a remote. I'm guilty of that someti .......
101: RE: Cary phono amp - integrated amp combo has way too much gain (5.23)
Posted by Terry P on 2016-01-06, 11:49:19 (97.94.130.80)
I agree. I need to do some detailed listening using the same copy of CD and LP. I have a couple exact duplicates that would allow better comparison. I might even pull out my old Radio Shack SPL meter .......
102: Thoughts on power amp hum (5.23)
Posted by banpuku on 2008-12-18, 06:42:32 (173.18.35.33)
Need help with the following situation: I have a power amp that produces a hum audible thru the speakers in all of the following situation: 1. with pre-amp connected via RCA connectors 2. without pre- .......
103: RE: Conrad Johnson preamps - what's up with no remote? (5.22)
Posted by Caucasian Blackplate on 2015-02-05, 12:57:50 (24.17.48.137)
To do this properly, you really need an extra 6V winding at a couple amps. That, in turn, requires a bigger power transformer. When you look into what the motors do in the volume control, they sit the .......
104: Re: Buffered passives? (5.22)
Posted by sogood on 2003-02-10, 18:42:42 (68.60.140.224)
Try a transformer volume control (passive pre), I have one I use and I would not think to many active pre's could do what this unit can for my system. Also better than a tubed pre IMHO. .......
105: RE: ? Why passive vol AFTER pre, not before? (If you need a passive AND pre) (5.21)
Posted by Ozzy on 2010-03-28, 11:57:27 (71.254.88.222)
transformer volume control. Not very expensive at all. Do a search on here to find out more. Oz .......
106: RE: Wyred4Sound+TVC? (5.20)
Posted by milpai on 2009-09-04, 06:14:48 (198.179.173.2)
TVC = Transformer Volume Control. These are PASSIVE pre-amps. I have this one: http://www.promitheusaudio.com/Ref_c-core/index.htm .......
107: Re: django x 2 ?? i need to to biamp question (5.19)
Posted by KCHANG on 2005-03-13, 02:17:17 (67.162.18.225)
Hi Mike, There two Djangos in series may work, but there are two things you need to consider. The first thing is whether the attenuation steps of the Django are fine enough for you to properly balan .......
108: Re: How much flavour should a preamp add (5.18)
Posted by Tuckers on 2003-02-21, 20:22:16 (15.238.95.37)
The preamp is one of the most important links in the chain. And yes, preamps are all colored in some way. You can begin to pay a lot for neutrality in this area. The components, like volume pot, or v .......
109: Re: Active and Passive Preamplifier (5.18)
Posted by Joao on 2006-06-15, 22:56:23 (217.185.21.196)
An active preamp uses active gain devices, tubes or transistor, as amplification stages. A passive preamp uses only a volume control, potentiometer or stepped attenuator or a transformer volume contro .......
110: Re: Markertek In-line Attenuators ? (5.17)
Posted by jk@home on 2002-12-08, 19:52:13 (68.10.22.21)
Check out the transformer volume controls (TVC), do a search in Tweaks. Getting lots of good comments. Or you can build a resistance voltage divider in your interconnects, for almost nothing. ::: TOPI .......
111: Welborne (5.16)
Posted by chris keating on 2005-12-08, 08:29:00 (216.64.108.194)
I owned the previous Ultrapath and the new one should be superior with the new remote volume control. The original was a SERIOUS over achiever. You will be amazed at what a transformer coupled, batter .......
112: Re: Tube Preamp choices (5.16)
Posted by chris keating on 2005-12-13, 11:38:39 (216.64.108.194)
YOu might look into the Audio Note M2B. It is remote for volume and inputs, and comes with or without phono. It is tubed, transformer coupled outputs and you can hook up balanced or single ended to it .......
113: Agreed... (5.16)
Posted by clio09 on 2008-01-25, 21:05:28 (71.91.7.92)
but with a transformer volume control the ICs may not present as much of an issue as opposed to resistive based passives. I use a TVC with an amp that has .8V sensitivity and 67k ohms input impedance. .......
114: Re: Here you go, tube hybrid... (5.16)
Posted by Response34 on 2005-01-01, 12:48:01 (205.188.116.7)
Hi hepcap, There are a few other minor difference between the older (Black Face) and newest version. The new versions now house a much better quality volume control, the Alps Blue. The new version a .......
115: RE: rotel amplifiers A little history lesson. (5.15)
Posted by Hugo Bass on 2009-05-22, 23:53:29 (119.224.25.147)
With Rotels earlier 800 series and 900 series products, the AX was the entry point model with the BX being the higher performance model. The BX amplifier units usually featured better internal compone .......
116: RE: How different are these two Preamps....Please read! (5.15)
Posted by Larry I on 2010-01-29, 12:40:29 (38.100.19.236)
I cannot make a comparison between the two sonically, but, I do have some practical advice. First, do not consider remote control as a mere convenience. The ability to easily set volume while being in .......
117: RE: passive preamps (5.12)
Posted by garf on 2009-05-31, 13:09:35 (86.142.223.40)
I have a passive TVC (transformer volume control) from Music First driving an ARC VT130SE and ML Summit speakers. I have written about this here before and don't want to bore with repetition but it is .......
118: tonight after five hours playing transformer case warm but can leave palm on it no problem (5.12)
Posted by Elizabeth on 2010-04-18, 01:05:51 (70.92.3.70)
Thanks for the advice. I am leaving the knob in back at the lower setting. The amp works at the lower setting even with 6BL7 tubes, which I got a big pile of with the amp.And which sound very good. Ri .......
119: Re: Inadequate (5.11)
Posted by Chris Jennings on 2005-11-11, 01:31:46 (212.100.250.212)
Hi. 55deg within the rack is what i would be uncomfortable with, especially if i had to use the knob to adjust the volume. The minimum requirement for transformer insulation is 105 deg to meet UL regs .......
120: Re: Some questions about transformer-based passives (5.11)
Posted by JJF on 2003-10-29, 03:16:30 (47.211.0.13)
I am using the TX102 based NOH preamp built by Bent Audio. It drives 2 bridged Electrocompaniet AW220 amps. I have chosen it after listening to: Krell KRC3, Primare 30.2, Electrocompaniet 4.7 and 4.6 .......
121: Re: Used preamp suggestions under $4k (5.11)
Posted by sogood on 2003-02-12, 16:53:37 (68.60.140.224)
If you want to hear your source exactly then I would do what I did, Add a Bent transformer volume control. My Sony xa777 became a brand new player, I would never go back to active pre. You will have .......
122: Re: Sugden A21a (5.07)
Posted by Winnie on 2005-09-02, 09:01:33 (80.42.204.193)
Thanks for that. Yep the hum and pops are there with all inputs disconnected. Even present when plugged in through a mains smoothing transformer. The guy at Sugdens said it could be being picked up on .......
123: Search for "TVC" (5.07)
Posted by Ewalaa on 2005-02-19, 05:17:59 (12.180.201.232)
Don't settle in on a resistor based passive until you investigate a "Transformer volume control". I think Bent Audio is the most common, but there are several others as well as the diy option. Ed ::: .......
124: You could tweak what you have, change pre, or (5.07)
Posted by Gregm on 2005-12-14, 07:31:53 (193.92.70.138)
forgo preamplification altogether. I mean, you've got the Rogue filtering and preamplifying: why do you need a second pre?? Just buy a volume and selector (if you have other sources) and be done with .......
125: Re: Django (5.03)
Posted by pro_ac628 on 2006-01-19, 05:29:17 (68.255.238.252)
Thanks for info Scruffy on the Django all this transformer stuff used in a passive pre is new to me,how do you like the sound from it?How would it compare to my previous Mod Squad Deluxe Line Drive,wh .......
126: RE: Cary phono amp - integrated amp combo has way too much gain (5.03)
Posted by Terry P on 2016-01-05, 00:55:55 (97.94.130.80)
I've talked to a tech at Cary three times now and he hasn't mentioned a resistor change option. So far, we've tried changing tubes in the 302 and the SLI-80, and he mentioned that changing the turns r .......
127: Audio Research VT-100 Mk 2 transformer noise (5.03)
Posted by tunenut on 2007-11-18, 16:01:15 (71.109.208.146)
I have had an annoying buzz coming from this power amp for some time. I thought it was probably the fan. As the amp warms up, a quite loud audible buzz starts after about 10 minutes. It increases in .......
128: Could you please elaborate - I'm not following? (5.03)
Posted by bwb on 2012-01-28, 20:01:34 (68.179.148.150)
. As you approach full tilt on the Vpots THD grossly increases. Where did you get that? Pots are incapable of adding THD. Please explain. there is also the fact that to get that much gain you are a .......
129: Re: Custom Placette 100K remote volume control. problem solved !! (5.01)
Posted by kenster on 2006-12-01, 23:53:09 (143.183.121.1)
"transformer controls which added noise" R U refering to Autoformers and if so, what kind of "noise" did they add? TIA, ~kenster .......
130: Good idea, contact Dave Slagle or Jeffrey Jackson about a transformer based volume control (4.98)
Posted by bwb on 2012-01-29, 08:30:38 (68.179.148.150)
. http://www.intactaudio.com/ http://www.jeffreywjackson.com/products.htm . .......
131: RE: Passive autoformer pre and tube integrated (4.98)
Posted by saltyflies on 2007-06-28, 08:06:11 (69.141.138.143)
I’ve experimented with adding a passive preamp to cd players with built-in volume controls, but not the ones you mentioned or with an integrated amp. Passive preamps don’t really add anything, at best .......
132: RE: preamps: passive versus active (4.96)
Posted by garf on 2008-04-04, 02:43:58 (159.92.192.84)
Hi, I use a Music First magnetic (transformer) passive pre-amp. This replaced an ARC LS15 going into an ARC VT130SE into Martin Logan Sequel IIs. This transformer passive allows combinations of single .......
133: Enclosures (4.94)
Posted by madisonears on 2018-09-10, 18:47:17 (24.178.23.53)
At least 50% of the manufacturing cost of almost any audio component is the enclosure. Decent circuit parts, even high grade, are not very expensive. PCB's, even complex ones, are also very cheap. A g .......
134: Re: DACT, TX102, Passive preamp questions... (4.94)
Posted by AbeCollins on 2003-06-19, 10:34:28 (12.252.236.227)
I came to the same realization when I first ran my Sony XA7ES CD player directly into my amp bypassing various tube preamps I had owned. It was like a layer of fog had been lifted. I then experimented .......
135: Re: ThielCS3.6 & Jeff Rowland Concentra II ?? (4.94)
Posted by Rick58 on 2003-09-04, 13:16:57 (128.115.198.7)
Of course! But I really don't know if the factory would tell you falsehoods just so one of their dealers can sell a new unit ... I assume if the amp is (over) driven hard into a low-impedance load, t .......
136: TVC? (4.92)
Posted by Frihed89 on 2017-12-11, 11:46:46 (2.108.1.16)
You might do some research on Transformer Volume Control (TVC) passive preamps. Just Google on it. There are many options. They are more expensive than preamps that attenuate. Many argue that this app .......
137: RE: How different are these two Preamps....Please read! (4.91)
Posted by Ozzy on 2010-01-29, 02:16:23 (72.86.6.25)
Having heard both of the passsives in question, I would recommend going with some sort of transformer or autoformer volume control. I think this type of attenuator has many advantages over resistor ba .......
138: Re: theory of passive preamp - what is the diff. ? (4.90)
Posted by AbeCollins on 2003-02-16, 22:04:28 (12.253.200.214)
Bob is correct but to expand a little, "active" implies that the electronic components used in the equipment require power (voltage and current) in order to operate. Transistors, vacuum tubes, integra .......
139: placette passive linestage (4.88)
Posted by Angioman on 2003-11-08, 13:45:42 (216.78.180.42)
Concerning the passive linestage, what are the impressions of build quality, connector quality, etc? Wall wart transformer or something better? Any inherent noise such as when the volume steps are ope .......
140: Some questions on your passive. (4.88)
Posted by DAVID on 2006-01-09, 15:54:57 (66.230.115.120)
Where do I find the parts and info to make a transformer based passive like yours? How much does it cost? And, lastly, is it possible to make one of these w/ some kind of balance control...dual mono d .......
141: RE: Not a believer (4.88)
Posted by thetubeguy1954 on 2023-05-13, 13:07:01 (68.205.88.213)
Gary, That's what I was told many years ago. What I can say as facts are this 1) I don't know what would "break-in" on a transformer, but the magnet wire and core would seem most probable to me and 2 .......
142: Re: Kissing Nagra (4.86)
Posted by saltyflies on 2007-01-02, 12:41:28 (69.141.168.6)
Having already tried a bunch of active tube preamps, the “do nothing” approach via “going commando” – no pre, a transformer-based passive, sources w/ volume control all result in a love/ hate thing, a .......
143: there is something wrong with your analyzer (4.86)
Posted by bwb on 2012-01-29, 08:17:04 (68.179.148.150)
. My TEK. THD analyzer. It is impossible for a resistor in a volume control to add THD. Harmonics are created when you put a signal through a non-linear device like a tube or transistor. These resis .......
144: Re: Tube preamp vs. attenuator (4.86)
Posted by Zene on 2005-03-19, 14:07:19 (24.21.76.104)
Paul/Helpers ..... I best be more better clearer. How do I know if I need to use a preamp or just volume controller driving a DBX PA even before I get equipment? If it helps, system will be CD player .......
145: Re: Placette vs First Sound vs AS vs Ref Line (4.85)
Posted by sogood on 2003-09-05, 07:57:01 (68.60.143.13)
There was a used Placette at audiogon yesterday, not single input though. I use Bent audio passive (Transformer Volume control). You may also want to look at the F.T. audio passive, everyone that has .......
146: Re: Is PrimaLuna tube or hybrid amp since it uses ICs/Transistors in the Circuit? (4.82)
Posted by Alan Breece on 2005-01-25, 05:26:18 (167.176.6.8)
Looks like a "trick" bias circuit looking to prevent output transformer saturation.Seems neat. It probably tightly tracks the bias to the tubes while listening to music,not allowing them to drift apar .......
147: TVC (4.81)
Posted by MVA on 2009-08-30, 16:49:05 (68.40.94.4)
If your source components have enough gain you won't beat a TVC, transformer volume control. There are a number available in the $500 range that will outperform multi $K active preamps. They are way b .......
148: I have a luminous audio Axiom (4.81)
Posted by morricab on 2015-03-09, 14:09:23 (80.218.199.14)
and it is the best passive I have tried and it is pretty cheap. I got mine upgraded with the caddock resistors but it is a shunt volume control so only the caddock is directly in the signal path. I pr .......
149: Re: Sonic Euphoria PLC: The "Crap" Test (4.81)
Posted by saltyflies on 2006-10-17, 12:08:54 (69.141.168.6)
Dunno. But another designer using resisters said transformer based units have an inherit softening of the leading edge and top end which makes them sound more natural than dead on neutral. I compared .......
150: RE: The Truth (4.80)
Posted by Tre' on 2016-05-18, 08:17:06 (76.90.39.24)
My thoughts? To start with, "First is the volume control, which uses Light as an attenuator, in contrast to a common resistor or a transformer." is not true. It uses light to change resistances and th .......
151: Passive preamp options (4.79)
Posted by Frank on 2004-12-07, 00:05:03 (24.187.25.20)
I have been going a little crazy trying to find the right amplification for my system lately. But Right now I think I have settled on a tube amp(AES/Cary SE-1 Sig.). I am running it directly from My A .......
152: Re: Best volume control for a passive pre? (4.79)
Posted by bilbobaggins on 2004-04-10, 14:23:56 (4.249.45.190)
I agree with the posts below -- hardwire your attenuator as much as possible to eliminate as many rca's as possible. Most resistive attenuators are based on series attenuators where all the resistors .......
153: RE: Curious, please elaborate about TKG vs. Slagle. (4.78)
Posted by mitch2 on 2016-04-26, 09:50:24 (107.4.59.207)
You are comparing a transformer (autoformer) volume attenuator to a resistor-based volume attenuator. Sort of apples to oranges except that they both attenuate volume. I believe TKD made both resistor .......
154: ASL Flora "preamp" (4.78)
Posted by chris.keating@smithturf.com on 2005-10-20, 07:46:18 (216.64.108.194)
The ASL FLora looks to be a very interesting "preamp". Autoformer volume control and transformer coupled outputs. Anyone hear this thing yet? .......
155: RE: Schiit Audio Freya S is back for limited time (4.77)
Posted by samac on 2021-09-14, 09:21:37 (24.140.81.172)
Hi Tom, Yes, the Freya S offers a lot for the money. Not least of which is the outstanding volume control and the excellent power supply with its nice transformer and beefy caps. I appreciate that it .......
156: Amplifier input sensitivity (4.77)
Posted by Maril555 on 2021-02-28, 17:47:44 (108.52.21.25)
What is the best way to raise the input sensitivity from say 0.75V to 1.0V. The obvious one is to change the value of the input resistor. I'd like to know if there are more "transparent" ways to do it .......
157: Smallish Rotel amps (4.76)
Posted by JD on 2006-03-03, 04:18:57 (24.130.90.123)
I'm thinking about getting a small Rotel 30 to 50 watt per...that I can run all day long at a realitively low volume without creating too much of an electric bill. It's my secondary system for backgro .......
158: seiden of japan (4.75)
Posted by Joe Murphy Jr on 2006-04-06, 20:52:28 (72.147.208.133)
Here's a link to what their rotary switches look like. Have you considered a TVC (transformer volume control) as an option? You may want to check out Bent Audio. .......
159: RE: What are the proven amps for Merlin VSM-MMe? (4.75)
Posted by toledo on 2007-06-11, 20:55:53 (24.251.164.190)
Interesting about the passives and BAM. I have a set of VSM SE with AC BAM. What is your opinion on Transformer Volume Control preamps. I currently have an autoformer preamp which works pretty well an .......
160: RE: Audio Research SP-8 (4.74)
Posted by palewin on 2013-05-20, 15:08:06 (108.35.204.83)
As in most audio questions, we are dealing with several variables (the entire audio chain), and the compromises we choose to make. Yes, any step-up device in between the cartridge and the phono stage .......
161: Re: ARC SP16/Residual Transformer Noise (4.71)
Posted by JMCIII on 2006-02-06, 06:00:28 (206.229.198.163)
Don't know. Mine, which I've had for going on 3 years of heavy use now is absolutely silent. The only noise I get is some slight tube rush when I drive the volume up to high playing back LPs (I have t .......
162: DACT stepped attenuator or TVC (4.71)
Posted by Heavystarch on 2006-04-25, 11:48:56 (71.213.53.168)
DACT makes one of the most accurate and very best stepped attenuators. (far better than any alps pot) http://www.dact.com/ If you want something better than that (but far more time consuming to implem .......
163: Re: Placette Audio RVC Passive Components (4.70)
Posted by THE_COW_IS_OK on 2004-10-15, 05:01:41 (62.128.179.2)
From your words, placette lived up to the expectation. At least mine cause thats exactly what I am looking at in a pre amp. The reason I sustpected lower quality when you lowered the volume digitally .......
164: RE: Stereoknight transformer-based passive preamp - anybody heard of it? (4.68)
Posted by Awe-d-o-file on 2009-02-23, 19:55:39 (74.47.242.137)
Very nice looking. Only 24 volume positions, no remote and only one in/out. I am totally on board otherwise. ET Question "Authority", the mainstream media sucks - Go Indep .......
165: Volume controls, benefits of push buttons? (4.66)
Posted by lplvr on 2004-09-02, 09:21:02 (164.156.167.238)
I'm looking into upgrading my preamp in the future. I have a CJ PV10a w/phono which I'm generally happy with except for the tube ringing once in a while. I plan to go with a low-output MC and will be .......
166: RE: passive preamps (4.65)
Posted by alanhendler on 2009-06-01, 09:06:25 (68.253.215.48)
I have the Sonic Euphoria passive pre. It is a transformer based passive and you can get it with a remote volume control. I have had many preamps and this is at the top of the list. Highly dynamic wit .......
167: Passive Volume Controls are the way to go. (4.64)
Posted by Joe Murphy Jr on 2004-10-20, 23:59:21 (68.222.72.28)
If you want to see some nice transformer based passives, check out bentaudio.com and the TVC designs of John Chapman (extremely nice gentleman and very knowlegeable). By the way, if you want parts to .......
168: RE: Preamp-Amp Gain Mismatch? (4.64)
Posted by wheezer on 2012-01-28, 15:51:42 (99.10.177.111)
That's the problem with source components, most of which put out 2Vrms. That's more than enough to clip any amp, most are around 1-1.5V sensitivity. Then that signal goes into a preamp capable of x ti .......
169: RE: REVIEW: Meridian 502 Preamplifier (SS) (4.64)
Posted by CH on 2009-05-01, 19:04:19 (118.100.44.226)
I concur with you on Meridian 502. They sounded neutral and transparent. Just like an active passive pre. Can't get higher praise than that. Have not compare with McCormick TLC though. It goes well wi .......
170: Audible Illusions L-1 (used) can be a better choice than the 3A (4.64)
Posted by musicalchap on 2012-02-08, 00:21:01 (108.224.40.26)
In the case of you having your own favorite phonostage with MC capability, the L-1 may be a better choice. Also, both have 3 knobs but they do different things on each preamp. The L-1 has 2 knobs to i .......
171: Using a European amplifier (220V) in the US (4.64)
Posted by oknyc on 2005-04-08, 09:44:41 (63.167.10.254)
Hello, All! I have a multi-layered question. First part (maybe it makes sense to look at the 2nd part of my question first): I have a 220V AMP from Europe that I would like to use in th US. However, t .......
172: Complete Self Serving shill babble (4.64)
Posted by bare on 2020-11-28, 18:44:31 (75.156.25.228)
IF your system is reasonably well setup ? A Simple Stepped attenuator Or a Transformer volume control. Is ALL one needs. Adding stupid amounts of extraneous circuitry typically inherent in a "Pre Amp .......
173: Help - Alternative to a BENT TVC (4.62)
Posted by ddriveman on 2004-03-14, 21:05:31 (165.21.154.14)
I have been using a TVC (Django TVC based on Cu S&B TX102 transformers...same as Bent NOH)and like it evry much. However, I have just recently upgraded to a Zanden 5000 Mk IV DAC whihc has only 1Vrms .......
174: Re: Be sure to run a search for "TVC" as well. (4.62)
Posted by Ewalaa on 2004-09-21, 03:39:31 (65.54.98.158)
Search the Amp/Preamp board and the DIY board for posted information on "TVC" or "Transformer Volume Control". In my opinion/system, a TVC absolutely kills a resistor based passive. .......
175: RE: I want to hear The Truth (4.59)
Posted by AbeCollins on 2010-09-15, 06:42:31 (71.229.129.165)
I once owned the McCormack TLC-1 passive linestage. It had a toggle switch that allowed you to choose truly "passive" or buffered output. The buffered output had no gain but it did veil the sound slig .......
176: RE: They hold up alright and work well (4.58)
Posted by Ralph on 2021-03-18, 09:21:54 (75.168.95.60)
The problem with them is that the preamp section had far too much gain, and the output tubes are something that guitar players don't know about. That isn't something I ever felt like trying to overcom .......
177: That's the bad thing about parasitic oscillation (4.56)
Posted by FenderLover on 2009-09-19, 05:47:53 (63.247.31.12)
You may not even hear it. If the problem resonance is above audible frequency. The amp may actually get quieter and hotter, just before failure. If the problem is in the audible range, I've had amps t .......
178: not Good enough..Really !? (4.55)
Posted by bare on 2018-09-20, 08:46:27 (99.199.7.137)
Assuming No ..inept... impedance missmatches.. what could be better that the absolute minimum of circuitry in the way of low level audio input signals? Even a Cheap Ass Ebay cloned Alps pot can make .......
179: Bent Audio 102s Passive Components (4.54)
Posted by stevenwmc2002 on 2002-12-21, 08:46:37 (218.102.21.129)
It's a great review! I totally agree with your assessment because I'm using a passive preamp that uses the same transformer volume control. The grounding of the passive preamp really needs attention. .......
180: I just switched from a passive to an active (4.53)
Posted by GliderGuider on 2004-03-11, 06:41:13 (198.103.161.1)
In my system, using a passive linestage between the DAC and the amps is very similar to running directly to the amps from a DAC with a volume control. The passive I have used (a Bent Audio transformer .......
181: Not even close to being enough (4.53)
Posted by Barry on 2023-01-17, 09:24:44 (100.14.55.26)
Most good 200@ 8ohm/400 @ 4ohm watt per channel amps today have 50,000uF per channel. You will hear improvement with even more. With 10K, you can put the amp on a scope and watch the power supply rai .......
182: Silver Rock attenuator steps info needed (4.52)
Posted by Donald North on 2003-10-19, 19:23:47 (216.93.206.2)
Hello, Does anyone know or can measure the attenuation steps in dB for the Audio Consulting Silver Rock transformer volume control? What is it's maximum attenuation? Thanks! Donald North .......
183: Re: High Output MC to MC phono? (4.52)
Posted by Brad V on 2003-08-15, 07:18:13 (167.64.47.32)
Hi L, >>> I use Denon DL110 high output MC cartridge (1.6mV) into MM phono. This isn't a good idea, as you don't want to be running a MC cartridge into a MM phono. Your input load on a MC, might be li .......
184: RE: PRE AMP ADVICE (4.50)
Posted by bare on 2019-12-15, 16:46:12 (75.156.26.150)
As above.. Preamps are Last century.. pointless things.. thanks to the trend towards High output sources. A simple attenuator Works transparency wonders and if Flush a Transformer type volume control .......
185: Nope, mine was as quiet as a grave... (4.49)
Posted by GliderGuider on 2005-07-09, 19:10:17 (70.28.14.6)
though a lot more lively. The main amp I used it with was a pair of Wavelength Tritons that have almost no noise (measured by Gord Rankin at .12 mv), on a pair of 97dB speakers, so I'd have heard adde .......
186: Re: Question for Mistral SE owners (4.48)
Posted by Gregg on 2003-01-09, 13:30:28 (63.149.69.163)
I have a Mistral LE, and I do get a very small hum coming directly from the amp. I can only hear it from less than 4 ft away or less. It is not related to the volume. You might try opening the unit an .......
187: Re: Help with low noise, medium power, SS amp for La Scalas? (4.48)
Posted by sogood on 2003-07-15, 12:05:34 (68.60.143.13)
I've got a little krell kav-500 three channel amp I use with my apogee centaur minor's, great sounding little amp (100 watts per and s/n is 121 db) These came as: 2/3/4/5 channels and are not at all b .......
188: Re: Eastern Electric Minimax vs. more expensive preamps? (4.48)
Posted by Gmood1 on 2006-11-13, 00:27:28 (66.90.229.15)
It means Transformer Volume Control. You have several different makes Audio Zone Pre T-1, Bent Audio TAP,Music First, Bent Audio NOH(older chassis),K&K TVC, Promitheus TVC-1, DIY Paradise Maggie,Sonic .......
189: different direction (4.46)
Posted by RioTubes on 2007-06-16, 17:28:14 (76.81.12.56)
for you to consider. Given your current system's price point, and because you are already using your computer as source, you may consider - selling your soundcard - buying a usb dac...something from N .......
190: Re: What we’re you using to control the volume before? (4.45)
Posted by saltyflies on 2006-11-28, 08:06:06 (69.141.168.6)
Minus the switching features and volume control sections, an active preamp provide impedance matching and voltage gain, but can add distortion. One way to deal with the problem is to eliminate the act .......
191: "TVC" is a generic acronym (4.44)
Posted by GliderGuider on 2003-12-10, 06:21:06 (198.103.161.1)
It stands for "Transformer Volume Control", and describes any line stage that uses transformers as attenuators. The Bent Audio implementation of this concept is called the "NOH". .......
192: RE: Why manufacturers are so mysterious about power amps consumption ? (4.44)
Posted by beppe61 on 2013-12-16, 09:39:37 (81.167.153.96)
Hello ! for cold amp i mean one with low idle current I do not refer to class D Because sometimes it seems that only class A amps can provide great sound This is a AB amp that delivers nice sound at l .......
193: digital/t-amp for long run to outdoor speakers (4.43)
Posted by BS64 on 2014-08-15, 12:37:46 (173.172.163.4)
I have been using a vintage Kenwood int amp to drive a small pair of Polk speakers out by the pool. It overheated yesterday, looks like the transformer is fried. All fuses are good. Searched Ebay for .......
194: Re: step-up trans as pre-amp (4.43)
Posted by pao on 2006-05-15, 22:38:47 (202.47.247.135)
No,my friend used passive pre-amp it was the thing placed between the volume control and output ,my friend said it was step up transformer that used as amplification unit like tube or transister,but t .......
195: RE: What I did with my LS-1 (same as SP-9 linestage) (4.39)
Posted by Square Peg on 2007-12-06, 03:28:18 (71.66.113.166)
In order of effect. Replaced terrible Alps Blue with wonderful TKD volume pot. Replaced coupling caps with Obbligato aluminum film, outputs with Obbligato Oil and film, same values Amperex 7308 tube. .......
196: Re: does this sound like a fried amp? "it was working fine..." please help :-( (4.37)
Posted by firestop41 on 2004-04-23, 19:18:34 (24.236.179.174)
Speaker relay may be suspect if you do not hear a 'click' a few seconds after the receiver is turned on. Some are just junk to begin with on bargain receivers. However, if it clicks and you can bring .......
197: RE: And here's something more.... (4.37)
Posted by Ralph on 2007-07-23, 10:01:43 (65.103.1.70)
TVCs will ring if improperly loaded. Ringing is distortion. The proper loading will vary with the volume control setting, the cable capacitance and the input impedance of the power amp. So it can be a .......
198: Re: step-up trans as pre-amp (4.35)
Posted by clio09 on 2006-05-16, 18:35:27 (12.107.18.54)
I have spoken to Jack Elliano and after that conversation came away with the impression that this guy will forget more than I ever can conceivably learn about audio. I will say I tried the Electra Pri .......
199: RE: Is this unit.... (4.35)
Posted by Bill Way on 2023-05-26, 06:45:29 (216.131.83.28)
All discrete other than a pair of 7812 regulators in the power supply. EQ modules are passive, and there is a tube-based gain stage to make up volume reduced by EQ cuts. The latest version has thei .......
200: Your cables are short enough, try a TVC (4.35)
Posted by Quiet Earth on 2006-01-08, 19:28:46 (69.111.111.140)
When I switched to a transformer volume control the dynamics issues went away. If you can't get the slam your looking for in a TVC then maybe you need to go back to active. Hard to say without knowing .......
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