The modern design of this preamplifier yields audiophile specs, convenient operation and an attractive price. This is made possible by using a top-end digitally controlled attenuator/amplifier IC.Analogue audio electronics appears to have entered a dormant stage. In our present age of CDs, DVDs and MP3, traditional preamplifiers have been relegated to the role of signal distribution and, primarily, adjusting the volume level.Our expectations for a modern high-quality preamplifier are that in addition to being easy to use, it should perform these signal distribution and volume adjustment functions with the greatest possible accuracy and the least possible distortion. And that is exactly where things start to get difficult.