Biggest impact: moving from integrated to separates

@asp307

they said 100K

OK, if so you won’t have an impedance compatibility problem connecting any reasonably designed line stage to the variable outputs.

That would certainly explain, though, why they added a buffer stage for that output in the Magnum II version. A 100K output impedance would be pretty much useless for driving many and perhaps most powered subs, which commonly have line level input impedances in the area of 5K to 20K. And in an application where treble response may be important, such as using the variable outputs to drive a separate amplifier for biamping, the resulting sensitivity to cable capacitance would be very likely to cause poor results as well.

Good luck. Regards,
-- Al

@almarg thanks, any rule of thumb for best matching on 100K? I know you said it should match anything reasonable. I’ve seen different ratios offered in other threads..thanks.

@asp307
If the output impedance of the line stage is 10K or less at all audible frequencies, **or** if the output impedance doesn't vary very much over the frequency range even if it does exceed 10K, there won't be an impedance compatibility problem with a 100K load.  It would be very rare for a line stage to not meet the first of those criteria, much less both of them.

Regards,
-- Al

I know you're looking for separates but consider this integrated.

https://www.audiogon.com/listings/solid-state-plinius-hautonga-integrated-stereo-amplifier-remote-10...

If you haven't heard one you'll be amazed. A buddy of mine  uses one and you would never know he doesn't have separates. This would also allow you to have some funds left over for other upgrades. Just throwing out possibilities.

My personal experience...
About ten years ago I bought a used Pass X-1 pre-amp. It replaced a Linn Kudos.
The change was transformational!

Soundstage, air, so uncongested....
it was like I'd been listening to music through a megaphone.

So if it was me, I would spend the money on a  line stage...