Well the problem with them is they cant drive a power amp 20 to 20khz with authority. They sound saggy compared to a good active pre.
Well, you got me curious enough to do some audio-guy stuff ie: disconnect my pre and run the K-03 direct into my monos using the on-board attenuator. I also checked the specs on this thing - 2.45 vRMS via either RCA or Balanced so I think it'll drive power amps without issue. Audiofool duty having been accomplished, now I'm listening to the new Bowie album ( it's very good BTW ) and now that it's run in a bit and warmed up, it actually sounds bloody good...I've owned a few SS preamps ( and still own one that's pretty cool ) and heard plenty more but this actually sounds better than what I remember. Not a bit of steeliness or brightness, really nice tight bass with mucho slam, excellent detail...the one area where the Manley has an
obvious edge is that it conjures up a monstrous soundstage and a more 3-D presentation. It probably gives up a little on the bottom end, but with 300B's, well
duh...not the first choice of bass-freaks, I would venture. Still, Werd, not too shabby and better than I recall. File this under " Things that make you go Hmmm..."
Gonna listen some more.
D.D.