Using TLP as a buffer.

Rhythm Willie · « **on:** 5 Jun 2006, 07:13 am »

I have tried lots of pre amps in my system (valve, GKI & tranny), but still prefer to run my Aksa 100n+ monoblocks via the variable out on the Sony XA& ES CDP.

Occasionally I yearn on some CD's (mainly female vocal tracks) the "valve" sound.

My thoughts are to run the full output (not variable) of the CDP straight through a TLP buffer into passive stepped attenuators at the input of each floorstanding mono power amp.

Would this be a better option than just using the variable out of the CDP via the TLP?

Anyones opinion with experience in this area would be appreciated.

SamL · « **Reply #1 on:** 7 Jun 2006, 11:01 pm »

Surprise to hear that you prefer the variable out from your Sony CDP. I guess your Sony must have a good variable port as my old Philips CD player with variable port sound worse than a Alps Blue. As for myself, well I am currently running my AKSA with a passive DACT attenuator.
Anyway as for your question, how come you wanted to place the stepped attenuator after TLP? You will need higher Watt resistor if you do so and I not sure if TLP will like this setup. Why not using TLP as it is with a stepped attenuator and full output from your player?

Have fun,
Sam

rabbitz · « **Reply #2 on:** 8 Jun 2006, 02:49 am »

The better Sony CD players use an Alps pot of reasonable quality on the variable output and sounds quite good. The one on mine is 10K but linear and not log.

G Georgopoulos · « **Reply #3 on:** 8 Jun 2006, 02:59 am »

both outputs variable and full/line, can drive an amp easyly, i would recommend you to use the line output, because the amps there, are
class-a for sure!.

G Georgopoulos
GGA HQ AMPLIFIERS

Rhythm Willie · « **Reply #4 on:** 8 Jun 2006, 06:04 am »

Thanks for the replies guys.

I read that an Audio Innovations Valve Buffer got a rave review & Class A rating in Stereophile, so was wondering whether the TLP would do a simmilar job. It should not amplify the signal in this mode.

Also have read that if you are using a passive attenuator, it is better placed as close to the input of the power amp for best drive & performance i.e. not before long IC leads.

G Georgopoulos · « **Reply #5 on:** 8 Jun 2006, 08:32 am »

passive attenuator location, it would not make a big difference where to
place, so long it doesnt effect circuit parameters very much ,just make sure is got solid connections and you wouldnt have problem with it

cheers

AKSA · « **Reply #6 on:** 8 Jun 2006, 10:53 am »

Dennis,

Zin of the TLP is as high as you want to make it, as the true input impedance of the circuit is a calculated 4.3M. Zout is around 140R, so an load of 10K or higher is easily accommodated, along with longish cables.

Hint: Not a good idea to put it in the same case as the power amp. Many have tried, and the hum issues are tricky to solve.

Because one twin triode handles both channels, even with an electrostatic divider, the channel separation is not to the standard of the GK1/Swift. However, it's a very euphonic buffer, and ideally suited where sound stage and musicality could be enhanced.

Gain is, as you surmise, around 0.94, so it's ideally set up for the high gain AKSA.

Cheers,

Hugh