Passive preamplifiers have gained popularity in high-end audio circles lately as it is often the easiest and cheapest way to reach high-end sound quality. Why? Today, many signal sources such as Tuners & CD players have sufficient output level to drive most power amplifiers directly. It means that no additional amplification is required, so for level purposes there is no need for a preamplifier. With a passive volume control in between, the signal from the source may be fed directly to the power amplifier. The non-linearity, noise and distortion from the preamplifier are avoided. Even the most expensive preamplifier's might add coloration and distortion to the sound. In many cases, a passive preamplifier sounds as good as or better than the best active preamplifier's. If you add silver plated copper wire with Teflon insulation on top you have a no compromise sounding preamp

The goal is simplicity itself. A box with volume control and a toggle switch. The signal path is simple and minimized between input and output.