WAD Passive preamp

Has anyone here used WAD preamp? I'd really like to try a NOH or MF Audio transformer preamps but they are too expensive for me, also AFAIK, NOH have stopped making the preamps for now.

So I came across this kit from WAD (well, it is cheap). I'm thinking of using the preamp with a valve power, probably also from WAD as soon as funds (and the boss) allow. I looked at Creek passive preamp as well, but that only offers 3 inputs (including Tape).

I also thought it may be fun actually building something for a change.

 

Dev,

may I mention that I'm selling a pair of Stevens & Billington TX 102 Mk IIIs, you could turn them into a killer passive pre.

 

NOH pre-amps used the S&B TX102 mk3 transformer which is still available. I've just bought the TX103 mc transformer these were £145 each direct from S&B. If S&B will sell you a pair of TX102's then for a relatively modest outlay you'll get a world class passive pre. PLenty of DIYers have built using them so plenty of support about.

Not universally acclaimed but very few people criticise them and yes IMHO they are well worth it.

Kev

 

Thanks Markus, but unless I have full kit with instructions, I'm afraid I'll screw it up. If I can use them easily (i.e. as part of a full kit with instructions as I mentioned), I'll be glad to take them off your hands. How much do you want for them?

 

I have a copy of a Hi-Fi World issue where they show how to fit the transformers into one of their preamp cases, with photos and everything. they also mention which parts you need to order from WAD. Think you could handle that?

HFW liked the S&B better than an Audio Synthesis resistor-based passive pre, and also better than a Grounded Grid valve pre, and that was with the Mk II version IIRC, the Mk III is said to be substantially better still.

 

I'm tempted Markus, depending on how much it's all going to cost.

 

I'll check the article tonight and PM you tomorrow or Sunday.

 

This might be of interest to you:

http://www.diyaudio.com/forums/showthread.php?threadid=48181&highlight=

 

http://www.stevens-billington.co.uk/page102.htm
http://www.diyaudio.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=48181&highlight=

Above links tell it all. The diyaudio link is huge and you may want to do a search within it, but anything you could conceivably want to know is answered somewhere in it and as I said there is plenty of support from people who've already built one.

The only other items you'll need are a switch for the input selector, a switch for the volume control (seiden27 way is what I used) a case and as many phono sockets as you think fit. 2 maybe 3 evenings work and Roberts your fathers brother, as they say.

Kev

 

Buy them! They'll cream the passive pre and probably a hell of alot of actives too. I'd buy them if I had any money

 

That's my problem too!, but Im about to give in to temptation regardless

T-Bone/Kev, thanks for the links. I'll take a good look over the w/e.

 

Dev,

Being the proud owner of an Music First pre, I feel as though I should be able to offer some constructive input, but short of saying it (and I suppose logically) and the S& B TX 102 knocked spots off the CJ Pv-10 and sound superb, I can only say do it. You wont regret it.

Or if you're around Harrow, pop in and have a listen !

Cheers
Jeff

 

l started a thread a couple of days back on a Bent NOH l just bought for US$850 off a seller in HK. Its true Bent have ceased production for now but will be kicking off again in about 3 months. l dont know what you budget is but if $850 is ok then maybe try posting a WTB in the Bent Audio forum as thats where l found mine.

Havent received the NOH yet but you will hear all about it when l do

 

I am currently using the Welborne lab passive pre. Pretty good IMHO, absolutely silent as it is battery powered, dual mono design and it will not add any signature of it's own to the sound. It's as though it's 'not there'. It's about US$750 for the basic version IIRC at www.welbornelabs.com.

JJ

 

Hi Dev.

Ive heard the WAD passive pre-amp and Creeks passive pre-amp too.

Whats more, Ive heard them through WAD power amps.

I'll be frank because you havent bought one yet!..

I found them flat, dull, boring & lifeless.

Definitive Audio have an Eastern Electric Minimax in (used) for £400.

Trust me, this is one of the best sub £1500 valve pre's you are going to get - new or used.

Details here:

http://www.enjoythemusic.com/magazine/equipment/0503/easternelectric.htm

It has a choke input power supply.

If you're good at soldering, here is a kit that I use, which is similar in many ways. Being a kit you get to specify the components you put in.

http://www.diyhifisupply.com/diyhs_basie.htm

The basie has a choke input valve rectified power supply (like on border patrol amps), and is all hardwired (no pcb)

I might well be selling mine at a future point, depending on the amplifier that I end up with.

These are definately 2 of the best valve pre-amps available in their price range.

 

I've heard alot of people say they'll do that if the impedances are correctly matched at each end, exactly the same as if you were running a phono cart into the incorrect load, flat, dull, boring and so on. There are some people who have spent time matching them and seem to swear by them. Never heard a good one myself though.
Still reckon the Tx's are the way to go though, they'll be my next pre move when I get there.

 

Thanks Chris, do know Definitive Audio's website?

 

errr... www.definitiveaudio.co.uk?

JJ

 

Hiya, as above - just click on ''stuff''

My pre has been stuffed with silver wiring and audionote paper/oil caps, has had a tape loop added and been built by a pro (not me!)

I'd want £500, let me know if interested.

Joe - if you're reading you might want to think about it too. It sounds great with the BP, especially considering they share similar power supply configurations.

Chris

*edit* I've decided to stuff my pre in the classifieds.

 

I'd tend to follow bottlenecks advice....all the passives I've heard have sounded a bit well passive !