Goldpoint SA4M-47 passive 'preamp' winging its way to Marco Towers...

And an AVC..

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Originally Posted by Ali Tait

And an AVC..

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Is that an "attenuator volume control", or an "autoformer volume control"?

The latter. I'm using these-

http://www.intactaudio.com/atten.html

Interesting stuff, Ali... I think it's going to be a good preamp bake-off at the next NEBO. In my corner, I'll bring the Croft, the Goldpoint and LDR. I always find these comparisons act as a valuable learning curve, as well as being good fun! :)

Marco.

Aye, looking forward to it.

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Originally Posted by Ali Tait

The latter. I'm using these-

http://www.intactaudio.com/atten.html

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Yes. I've had a look at those. Quite tempted, even though I've ordered a batch of LDRs to play with.

I reckon your pre may cause a bit of a stir Ali. :D

I reckon so too, although in reality, it'll largely be about what matches the partnering power amp (and system) best on the day.

Marco.

Yep, they need lowish output impedance from sources to give of their best.

Shipped yesterday, so she's on her way! :carrot: :carrot:

Marco.

Well, she's here! :thumbsup:

First impressions are very positive, as the SA4M-47 has a wonderfully wide-open, detailed and lucid sound, with plenty of drive and 'attack', but also 'relaxed' and easy on the ear, with zero listening fatigue factor. It seems to have a very well-judged sonic balance, or perhaps it's just extremely transparent and showing precisely what my source components sound like?

Anyway, I'm going to let the unit run in for a few days (to allow the resistors to burn-in fully), and play around with the feedback settings on my Copper amp. I suspect that there's some mileage to be had there in terms of optimising things further, before forming any conclusive opinions, as I can hear the sound opening up more and more as I listen.

One thing I have to say is that the build quality (fit and finish) on the Goldpoint is in the highest rank and worthy of that found on far more expensive devices. It really is a lovely thing. Furthermore, the stepped attenuators are silky smooth and feel very 'positive' in use.

So far so good! More later, muchachos, as I get properly used to what it's doing in my system :cool:

Marco.