The NJM2068 operational amplifier is used throughout the
preamp. This op amp performs almost as well as the higher-priced NE5532, but I would rather see the real thing.
The review of the Marchand Electronics LN108 phono
preamp was to the point (it even included some measurement data), but I was taken aback by the fact that the enclosure for this tube-powered unit had no vent slots and that in consequence it ran rather hot.
When I first connected the Marchand Electronics phono
preamp to my system, I found out three things.
Direct comparisons in this review are with my Parasound P/PH-100 phono
preamp. Although the Parasound was in the slightly under $150 price range when new, it has served me well for a number of years and is the only other separate
preamp I had on hand for comparisons.
If the ELP has an internal phono
preamp, the interconnects can go directly to the
preamp inputs.
As far as SGB's
preamp problem, although I share you r dismay that he had a problem in the first place that may have led him to draw some unwarranted conclusions about the sound of some recordings, I ant glad that he caught the problem and was honest enough to admit what had happened.
The unit has
preamp outputs, which can be very valuable as will be outlined in my upcoming article on AV receiver basics.
Provided the analog input signal level is not so low as to prevent more than about 12 bits from moving or too high to allow the DAC to clip any analog (analog tape, or external phono
preamp) signal should pass transparently.
Lastly, regarding the issue of the upper midrange peak of my former
preamp, I can reconfirm that the peak in Knopfler's voice in all of the Dire Straits and Mark Knopfler recordings that I have mentioned recently is still there, although now they are just a bit less noticeable.
On the 13th of July, 2019, Xtreme Fidelity in River Vale, New Jersey, USA will host a private event to show off the Merrill Audio PURE Tape Head
Preamp, using the Ampex ATR 102 fully restored by ATR Services.
Both models connect to other devices with wired Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity, two camera inputs, 4.0-volt
preamp outputs for connections to amplifiers, and a fast-charging USB port.
Featuring Apogee's proprietary Soft Limit and mic
preamp, plus precisely tuned A/D and D/A conversion, and an Apple MFi-certified Lightning connector, the headset integrates seamlessly with all compatible Apple iOS devices.