cdp digital volume control or preamp?

I've heard the BC21.1 together with a Sonic Frontiers amp (not sure which one) and thought it sounded great. Whether you'd prefer it over your cdp direct to the amp is a personal perference. In my limited experience with cdps w/volume controls direct to amp, I'd say going direct gives you a more transparent sound, but sound a tad flat with less depth and texture than an active preamp.

disclaimer: I am a Blue Circle dealer, and I love their preamps! :-)

Tfkaudio,
You might consider trying this before going to an active preamp:
http://placetteaudio.com/remote_control.htm
$1000 new, can be had here for around $600 used. Easy to re-sell if you don't like it.

We're currently using EVS attenuators, running direct from CDP to amps, and am very glad to run without a preamp. The clarity and transparency are unbeatable. When we get our new APL-modded CDP, we'll run direct again. Unless I'm spending big $$ on a preamp, or need the additional gain for our 4W SET amps, I'm feel much closer to the music without the additional colorations of the preamp. Just my opinion, FWIW.

If you can get by without a remote, you might also consider the Luminous Audio Axiom attenuator. Search the archives for opinions about the Placette or the Luminous ($125 retail).

We're swapping between 4W SET amps and 50W triodes, and definitely don't lack for dynamics with either setup.
All the best,
Howard

If you are looking for an inexpensive solution, Creek makes a passive preamp with 2 inputs and remote control. I have no idea how it performs. It is $450 new at Audio Advisor and they have a 30 day money back guarantee. Another inexpensive solution would be a used Adcom GFP-750 passive/active preamp for about $600.

http://www.audioadvisor.com/store/productdetail.asp?sku=CROBH22&product_name=OBH-22%20Remote%20Passive%20Preamp

Thanks for your input, everybody. I'm gonna go with the Blue Circle BC21.1. I'll let you know how it sounds.

Cheers.