2. amps-preamps
  3. 1157790595

Adding tube buffer to Rotel instead of............

I have a dual use system with a Rotel 1068 pro for movies and I have a hybrid Sonic Frontiers SFL1 pre amp for two channel, if I were to add a MF tube buffer and sell off the Sonic would I expect good results? I am wanting the convenience of the Rotel but with a more refined sound that tubes provide, plus rack space would be gained....is this at all wise or should I leave things alone? Associated gear is listed under my system, thanks.
chadnliz
tarsando
578 posts
 
Not having heard either the preamp or the tube buffer under question, I would have to venture a guess that the SF1 is a much better-sounding preamp that the Rotel/buffer combo would be. Convenience-wise, sure, go ahead. But sound-wise, not all tube units are created equal. Good luck!
lwood
61 posts
 
NO!! I had the Musical Fidelity's latest buffer before I went with tubes and it will not come close to the SF 1, IMHO....but those are my ears.
ngjockey
1,042 posts
 
I think you're misunderstanding the purpose of a buffer. To just add another link in the chain can only detract from the sound, tubes or not, when not required. An external buffer is used to replace, not augment, the ouput stage of a DAC or other source with zero gain. They can be used to correct impedance mismatches on passive devices as well.
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