Paul,
Thanks for the clear answer on the functions of the resistors, it sounds like they should stay in the circuit as is.
The TVC's I have are the Supermalloy 23 step models from DIY Hifi, they have the gray housing and not the models with nicer looking polished stainless steel cases... but I would think that both types sound about the same.
I also have the remote control for them, it takes 12 volts so I am thinking about using 12 volt sealed lead acid batteries for the preamp. Would 1.2 volt NiMH's be powerful enough to replace the D cells?
http://www.diyhifisupply.com/node/341http://www.diyhifisupply.com/node/177