Unity gain with tube buffer?

Pubul57, the AudioKinesis speakers are designed and built by Duke of AudioKinesis.

Although I prefer an active linestage **designed and built properly**, I do not question for a moment that TVCs and even a properly set up passive can do better than most linestages out there. IMO its a statement about how bad most linestages actually are.

John Chapman has a remote system that allows you to put the passive control right by the amp which with passives is really the only way to do it. The remote solves the issue of having to get up and adjust the volume on both channels every time you want to change the volume.

FWIW we offer a passive control option in our amplifiers...

Ralph, does your comment about TVCs and I assume ATVCs as well apply to pure attenuators passives (resitor-based) as well, or are they hopelessly compromised in terms of getting impedance matching optimized in most systems?

Ralph,

Can you elaborate more on the passive control option for your amps?

Since I have Duke's Jazz Modules coming (have the Stormbringers now) I have been considering the M60s (although the S30 was what I believe Duke voiced the with) as an option.

Thanks

Clio09, I have a customer using Stormbringers with our MA-1s. He is delighted with them- gave up a set of Carver Silver Amazings. He thinks Duke's speakers are better in every way. In having heard his system, I agree.

We can install a volume control in the M-60 and MA-1. It is similar to the type that we put in the MP-1 preamp.

Pubul57, I am of the opinion that TVCs if done right can offer better performance than a passive, unless the passive is at the input of the amplifier. The best TVCs rival many good line sections, but the best line sections so far are still better IMO/IME and offer greater flexibility.

Ralph,

Thanks for the response. The volume control in the M-60 is an interesting option. Does this have to be done with a new unit or can used one be upgraded?

You comments on TVCs are also interesting. I had been leaning towards getting the new Bent TAP AVC (balanced version) but that will now depend on if I decide to move to the M-60s.