Any recommendations for a SS buffer with passive volume control? Would it make sense to use that with a DAC with high output impedance of about 1.2K ohms (Denafrips Ares)?
1.2k is in balanced mode. 600 ohm in SE.
Why the desire to use passive volume control ?
Balanced or SE ?
You will need an amp with an input sensitivity of around 1V (SE) and 2V balanced.
The output resistance is part of the passive post filter and essential for the muting circuit it seems.
I would assume the output resistance is ohmic.
This means a load above 10k will be fine but you will loose some output level (about -1dB).
Both the load the Ares 'sees' will vary depending on the volume control as well as the 'new' output resistance of a passive volume control will vary depending on the volume setting.
How this will work out depends on the Length (capacitance) of the used cable and power amp.
Why not direct it directly and use digital volume control ?
Or use a 'normal' pre-amp ? I mean the power amp is also an amplifier. Why would adding buffer or few times gain amp be such a horrid ?