[JayB]

I have been using a passive preamp with my Bottlehead Paramounts and in general, like the result. It is very transparent, but I think lacks ultimate dynamics and a certain amount of drive. Some of you have related your positive experiences moving from passive to the Clarinet, which I have been thinking of trying. My question is, has anyone out there tried the Paramount/Clarinet combo? Please comment on sound and would you recommend it?

[Bill Epstein]

Warning! This is one of those "I've never heard __________ " replies.

I built and enjoyed Paramours, the 2A3 little brother of the Paramounts, years ago in company with, at various times, the Foreplay or a passive volume control. Judging from that distant memory of a lack of dynamics and tonal color and my more recent experience with other passives, other amps and the Clarinet, I would advise that for a little more than $300, you couldn't go wrong to go active.

Here's a blast from the past:

[Bernie]

I have a number of Bottlehead products, and have good results with them. However, I do not have the paramounts. Looking at the Clarinet circuit topology,  I can see no reason why that  combination won't rock. ie, if you fancy the clarinet. Go for it!

Bernie.