The Electra-Print PVA pre-amplifier is based on a pair of custom wound nickle core transformers. These constant current load input transformers are designed to turn a voltage input into current output. The PVA effectively deals with the issues that face a passive pre-amplifier. While the PVA contains no active circuitry, it does offer gain due to the step up design of the transformers. This design is a personal favorite of Jack Elliano(who built this one) as it is wide bandwidth and low distortion.
Jack built this unit. This is a no-nonsense unit, that is not a piece of audio jewelery. Matter of fact it looks allot like a 60's era piece of test equipment. Basic metal chassis finished in a brown/copperish hammertone paint. 4 sets of inputs and two set of output RCA's. One set of outputs are set up for subwoofer. Gold RCA's, and good quality volume pot and selector. You can dress this unit up with fancy knobs, and attach a set of wood side panels. But it functions just fine and sounds great.
The PVA is a custom built unit, when Jack decides to build them. Excellent performance for a modest price. Have yet to see one come available on the used market. Sell for $250+ shipping. As long as you don't require an active gain stage, nothing is going to outperform the PVA for this price. I like the sound of it, but need to throw some $ into the audio kitty to buy a Rowland pre-amp to match the Model 5 amplifier I just acquired. The Model 5 is a long term keeper, otherwise I would keep the PVA around. If I raise the final bit of funds I need for the pre, then the PVA stays cause its good.
Paypal please add 3% for their fees. Can send pic upon request.
