"Fred" wrote in message
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"Robert Morein" wrote in message
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Thanks for the info, guys. I note that the IMD and THD figures for the
PAT-4 are .05% and for the PAT-5 they are .007%, plus the PAT-5's noise
figure is 5 db. lower (-85 db. vs. -90 db.) on the line inputs. Do you
think these difference would be audible?

IMHO, the PAT-4 is a pretty audible preamp. It is not quiet. The PAT-5
should be a little less obtrusive.



Was the preamps factory or kit? Don't know about the PAT-5 but I put
together the PAT-4 as a kit years ago and its quiet compared to any of the
source material at the time which is LP, tape, FM and AM. I don't think I
be
able to hear the difference between 85 and 90 dB. To put this in
perspective, if I'm not mistaken, the McIntosh C2200 preamp has a S/N
ratio
of 93 dB which isn't that much better than the Dynacos, in particular the
PAT-5, specification wise. Would the MaIntosh not quiet and obtrusive as
well?

It's been a long time. As I recall, it was almost inaudible, as you say, for
the media of the time. However CDs, and CD players, are quieter, and
benefit from a quieter preamp.