XLR I/O, dead quiet, retain a original sound stage, solid build

none

I used to connect my Sony cdp XA7ES directly to the Sony TAN90ES amp and thought the sound is very good. But after putting the Sony TAE90ES preamp in the chain, the sound becomes more balanced with faster, clearer high and more slam, punchy bottom and most important retains the openess as before.

This is a great preamp for the price. High end construction and performance

There was a lot of hoopla about this being upgradeable via a computer connection but Sony was very protective of realeasing the upgrades and providing info regarding the latest versions and what they improved. The only complaint I have is that a preamp of this caliber can't reproduce straight 4 channel stereo. There are many ambient presets which provide rear channel reflections but not one that passes through the straight signal on 2 channel stereo. It would be nice if Sony would provide that option as a modification/upgrade since they claim that the unit is capable of being reprogramed.

Excellent reproduction. Only thing missing is a 4 channel stereo preset. Terrific on DVD's. Stereo presets could be greatly improved with a 4 channel preset.

Similar Products Used:

Sony DVP-S7700
ATI 1505