Tube amp with volume control vs. with a proper pre

Basically the VC on an amp is nothing more or less than a 'passive line stage' without more inputs/outputs and one less set of IC's. If you have one with a high quality VC and only one source you MAY like it better than using a pre-amp. Personally I wouldn't be without an active pre-amp and I certainly would not want a 2d VC in the chain. Boils down the the active v passive issues discussed here so often.

I was thinking of going this way, for reasons of affordability and what I imagine might be a direct high resolution signal. I was thinking of the Art Audio Carissa with volume control. I am not a technical guy, so the complication factor makes me want to rely on a good pre, thus I am curious what the opinions are on this.

Personally I wouldn't be without an active pre-amp and I certainly would not want a 2d VC in the chain. Boils down the the active v passive issues discussed here so often.

I'm generally of this mindset too, but since I purchased my TAD 60 I've softened my position some. The TAD is much more sensitive than any other amp I've used, and with a single CD input I'm not at all missing an active preamp. I was actually surprised when I first hooked it up this way . . . it was the first time I've been satisfied with a passive preamp.

look at the cayin stuff. Great product, value and flexibility.