Preamp Modifications

[AcidJazz]

Doesn't CAT use a ladder attenuator

Yeap, 23 step. I wanted 'finer' steps since I listen mostly late at night and this CAT is 1990 vintage. My next updating would be the electrolytic caps...

Here is a pic of the old vol/balance..

[BobM]

I think the original CAT's were notorious for having rather large steps, so you were either too loud or too soft and usually never quite right.

I think there is an easy way to solve for that though (engineers, please correct me if I am wrong) by installing a switch with a second grounding resistor with a value that would allow a half step.

[rollo]

Here is a shot of the Khozmos in my CAT...was worth all of its 200.$

   As a former CAT owner. Curious as to the difference had from the Khozmos. I'm considering them for the Loesch & Weisner preamp. What did you gain ?


charles

[AcidJazz]

Aside from smaller steps of volume...a seemingly deeper more expansive soundstage, a 'softening' of a hardness I thought was there at higher volumes (I sorta convinced myself I was hearing the hardness of the metal film resistors lol).
THe expanded soundstage thing might just be having the right and left channel pots separate. Then there is the elimination of the balance control straddling the right and left channel together.

Rollo, your  old CAT says Hi... 

[rollo]

 Cool thanks. The CAT was a dear friend. Glad to hear it has a new good home. They are special in the preamp arena. Revealing as all heck. ENJOY !!!


charles