Pre-amp for Radford STA25 amplifier

Discussion in 'Hi-Fi and General Audio' started by Krad, Jan 13, 2023.

  1. Krad

    Krad

    Joined:
    Jan 11, 2023
    Messages:
    3
    Likes Received:
    0
    It has been suggested that I replace my Radford SC22 pre-amplifier with a more modern one either passive or active. Which models would be worth considering? Good value for the cost but not expensive. Compatible with the Radford valve amp.
     
    Krad, Jan 13, 2023
    #1
  2. Krad

    Sergeauckland

    Joined:
    May 31, 2012
    Messages:
    296
    Likes Received:
    41
    Location:
    Suffolk
    One benefit of a passive pre-amp is that it adds no distortion, has a completely flat frequency response with normal length cables and doesn't add any significant noise. Consequently, all passive pre-amps will sound the same, so just choose one that has the inputs you need, and looks and price suits.

    Valve amplifiers have a high input impedance, so pretty much any passive pre-amp will be compatible.
    The only issue with a passive pre-amp is that as there's no gain in the pre-amp, the voltage necessary for the power amp has to come from the sources. Your Radford power amp I think has an input sensitivity of 1.5V. With digital sources, that's rarely an issue, as most digital players output 2V, but may be an issue with analogue sources like tape or FM tuners, possibly phono stages too.

    As to active pre-amps, again buy something that has the right facilities as sonically they will be identical if you avoid 'audiophile boutique' high-end products which feature fairy-dust over technical competence.

    S.
     
    Sergeauckland, Jan 13, 2023
    #2
Ask a Question

Want to reply to this thread or ask your own question?

You'll need to choose a username for the site, which only take a couple of moments (here). After that, you can post your question and our members will help you out.