Behold the exceptional craftsmanship of the ten/hl preamplifier, a testament to Nelson Pass's design prowess. This audio gem unveils an immaculate, well-thought-out layout, featuring exclusively discrete components and a gold-plated circuit board. The clever outboard power supply is strategically positioned far from the signal path, ensuring optimal performance. Classified as a "linestage," its focus is on delivering pristine audio, with phono duties thoughtfully assigned to the separately available FET ten/pc. This rare preamp is considered a reference by many audiophiles, and promises not to disappoint.

RESTORATIONS

• Full 30-point service check
• Repainted chassis covers
• Replaced power supply connector
• Cleaned controls, switches, and internal electronics
• Exterior detailed

SPECS

Type   Dedicated line-level preamplifier

Inputs   Analog Disc, Auxiliary, FM/AM Tuner, CD Player, Video Audio, 2 Tape Monitors

Outputs   2 Tape Record, Main to power amp

Controls   Source, Mode (Stereo, Reverse, Invert, Mono), Signal Distribution (Monitor Tape 1 or 2, Copy 1 to 2, Copy 2 to 1), Volume, Balance

Voltage gain   20dB max

Frequency response   1.5Hz–150kHz +0, –3dB

Max output   20V

THD   0.01% at 1V out

Output impedance   100Ω

Dimensions   19"W x 2"H x 10"D

LINER NOTES

The Threshold FET-10/HL linestage is an 'old' stereo unit built back in the late 1980s by the great Nelson Pass. It uses discrete FETs throughout with no op-amps in sight. It has tape outputs, selector switch for five inputs, a stepped Nobles balance and volume control. The FET ten/hl does not add or subtract nothing substantial to sound: resulting sound characteristics depend on other components in the chain.