Aside from the discussion whether active, or passive, or no preamp can work better, may I mention another way to enhance signal transfer? Although I am a fan of the $350 EVS Ultimate Attenuators from tweakaudio.com, I have found that there is a way to improve passive or active preamp, or even no preamp (Ultimate Attenuators.)
Placing the SCE Harmonic Recovery System active box (no controls to adjust) between the CD source and the amplification seems to greatly enhance the CD listening experience.
Placing the SCE Harmonic Recovery System active box (no controls to adjust) between the CD source and the amplification seems to greatly enhance the CD listening experience.