We listened to a broad spectrum of music while auditioning the Glasshouse Passive Pre-amplifier No. 1 and the general consensus was that it brought into the sound superb detailing over the higher register. It has exceptionally delicate crystal clarity at the high frequencies, extracting sounds that had otherwise gone un-noticed, without making a harsh treble. The mids were rich and the bass had good control without any boominess that you can sometimes get from active pre-amps. Overall a tonally well balanced performer capable of really showing you what's on the disc.

The No.1 enjoys acoustic music. The strings of Louis Winsberg playing on the album 'Jaleo' were vibrant and atmospheric and incredibly life like. Miles Davis`s "Kind of Blue" flowed beautifully, so easy to listen to with zero harshness of the trumpet. The Happy Monday`s "Pills n Thrills and Bellyaches" produced great depth and great grip. Saint Germain`s "Rose Rouge" kept you on the edge of your seat a tune that rolls with the ever expecting climax that is never reached. This pre-amp favours the pure sounds of real instruments and breathes new life into a host of classic tracks we played in all genres.

So we present the Glasshouse Passive Pre-amplifier No.1 that goes against the grain of those who feel passives aren`t worth a listen, this one most definitely is.