Analog LineStage improves Overdrive SQ

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audioengr

Analog LineStage improves Overdrive SQ
« on: 31 Dec 2010, 08:53 pm »
Some customers have asked for a method to add their vinyl analog inputs to systems using the Overdrive Signature DAC, when it is used directly to the amps.

The Overdrive is typically used direct to the amps because this results in the best SQ.

The preamps here can solve this problem:

http://www.mfaudio.co.uk/classic.htm

http://www.tnt-audio.com/ampli/musicfirst_pre_mk2_e.html

This has an option to add a home theater bypass.  This option can be used to couple the Overdrive DAC to the amps.  The other analog inputs will use the linestage and go directly to the amps.  This is the best type of linestage, one that uses high-quality transformers rather than resistors for attenuation.  One of the balanced inputs can be used for the DAC and the other input for Phono preamp.

I am looking into availability of this linestage in the US and will report more in the future.  We are looking into special version where the "A" balanced input bypasses the linestage for the Overdrive DAC and the other selector positions go through the linestage.

Copper version - ~$2400.00
Silver version - ~$4800.00

Another possibility:

http://www.stereoknight.com/silverstone%20passive%20preamp.html

Steve N.
« Last Edit: 20 Nov 2017, 09:16 pm by audioengr »

audioengr

Re: Analog LineStage to add to Overdrive
« Reply #1 on: 13 Mar 2011, 02:19 am »
I got a Classic linestage in and put it in the system today.

As a 1:1 isolator it is superb (at max volume).  It breaks the ground connection between Overdrive DAC and amps and the result is simply amazing.  Improves air, liveness and cymbol decay.

As a volume control it is great too, but not as good as my Overdrive volume.  This is expected.  I would venture to say that it will beat 95% of active preamps, everything affordable.

for Overdrive customers, this is a BIG upgrade actually.  I am looking into a simpler balanced 1:1 isolator for those customers that dont have any analog sources.

Steve N.

Detlof

  • Jr. Member
  • Posts: 3
Re: Analog LineStage to add to Overdrive
« Reply #2 on: 8 May 2011, 09:31 am »
Having tried the line stage (copper version) with the Steve's Spoiler/Pacecar it sounded awful right out of the box, harsh with truncated sounstage. After running the Purist System Enhancer through my system for 24 hours it was a completely different story. The stage was deep and wide, bass tight, cymbals crisp. More improvement is expected.
It is absolutely imperative to run the unit in.

audioengr

Re: Analog LineStage to add to Overdrive
« Reply #3 on: 8 May 2011, 05:52 pm »
Having tried the line stage (copper version) with the Steve's Spoiler/Pacecar it sounded awful right out of the box, harsh with truncated sounstage. After running the Purist System Enhancer through my system for 24 hours it was a completely different story. The stage was deep and wide, bass tight, cymbals crisp. More improvement is expected.
It is absolutely imperative to run the unit in.

Detlof - are you using it drive the balanced inputs on your Amps?  Have you used these balanced inputs before?

Steve N.

BobMajor

Re: Analog LineStage to add to Overdrive
« Reply #4 on: 9 May 2011, 02:17 am »
Hi Steve,
I'm looking forward to see if you can come up with a cheaper "isolator" than getting the preamplifier.
Thanks

Detlof

  • Jr. Member
  • Posts: 3
Re: Analog LineStage to add to Overdrive
« Reply #5 on: 9 May 2011, 08:21 am »
Detlof - are you using it drive the balanced inputs on your Amps?  Have you used these balanced inputs before?

Steve N.
No Steve, I am using the unbalanced inputs on my VTLs. Usually I go in balanced frm my active preamplifier. I was running unbalanced for the first time on my amps when using the LineStage. So I suppose - didn't think of that before your question - that I was actually breaking in those inputs. You live and learn......

audioengr

Re: Analog LineStage to add to Overdrive
« Reply #6 on: 9 May 2011, 05:35 pm »
Hi Steve,
I'm looking forward to see if you can come up with a cheaper "isolator" than getting the preamplifier.
Thanks

I was looking at Audio Consulting transformers - about $750.00 for a pair.  The problem is getting 1:1 versions.

I am convinced now that there are three things accomplished, which makes this easy on the amplifier inputs and reduces noise:

1) balances the output voltages.  If the + and - voltages are not exactly identical (very difficult), the transformer makes sure this is the case.

2) Blocks any DC from the source

3) isolates system grounds

Steve N.
« Last Edit: 10 Jun 2011, 11:13 pm by audioengr »

audioengr

Re: Analog LineStage improves Overdrive SQ
« Reply #7 on: 8 Dec 2011, 09:45 pm »
Here is another great transformer linestage from Canada:

http://www.6moons.com/audioreviews/stereoknight/1.html

http://www.stereoknight.com/

serengetiplains

Re: Analog LineStage improves Overdrive SQ
« Reply #8 on: 8 Dec 2011, 11:04 pm »
Steve, Serge at Audio Consulting can wind whatever ratio you need.  Have you considered loading the DAC output with a transformer?  That would reduce parts count nicely, increase resolution.

audioengr

Re: Analog LineStage improves Overdrive SQ
« Reply #9 on: 9 Dec 2011, 12:20 am »
Steve, Serge at Audio Consulting can wind whatever ratio you need.  Have you considered loading the DAC output with a transformer?  That would reduce parts count nicely, increase resolution.

Yes, I have been doing inquiries.  The Transformers will not fit inside the Overdrive, but they will inside a new Overdrive Ultra.

I plan to put out a simple external box for the other Overdrives.

Do you have a contact email for Serge?

Steve N.

serengetiplains

Re: Analog LineStage improves Overdrive SQ
« Reply #10 on: 9 Dec 2011, 01:10 am »
I do have Serge's email address.  I'll send it through PM. 

Serge actually has a new transformer he prefers to previous designs---a toroid.  It could be used for a push-pull output given the cancellation of L and R standing currents.  It's smaller, so it might fit in the Overdrive.  Transformer output is to me one of those few incredibly elegant solutions to a handful of problems.

firedog

Re: Analog LineStage improves Overdrive SQ
« Reply #11 on: 2 Jan 2012, 08:29 am »
Hi-

Also saw these: http://diyhifisupply.com/catalog/74 which are less expensive. Apparently the transformers are a less expensive version (smaller transformers) also made by S&B, who make the Music First.

firedog

Re: Analog LineStage improves Overdrive SQ
« Reply #12 on: 11 Jan 2012, 02:41 pm »
Found another interesting one: http://www.bentaudio.com/index2.html

Several models with different prices. One includes HT Bypass standard.

They also sell components for DIY or for inclusion in other components.