Do preamps have a material affect on high level sources?

The balanced Backert Labs Rhumba would be a good example. Any preamp that supports the balanced standard would do the same thing. That is one reason balanced preamps can sound better- you don't hear the effects of the interconnect cable. 

Mr. Decibel
+1
I have two preamps.  One cost a pretty penny.  If I go direct I am bypassing 6 tubes in the preamp.  That will definitely color one"s sound. How could it not?
It just sound so much "cleaner" going direct to monos.  IME. YMMV.

Mr. Decibel
+1
I have two preamps.  One cost a pretty penny.  If I go direct I am bypassing 6 tubes in the preamp.  That will definitely color one"s sound. How could it not?
It just sound so much "cleaner" going direct to monos.  IME. YMMV.

Gotta stop this double posting,  My bad

oldtech0
I have two preamps.  One cost a pretty penny.  If I go direct I am bypassing 6 tubes in the preamp.  That will definitely color one"s sound. How could it not?
It just sound so much "cleaner" going direct to monos.

Yet there are those with vested interest in these $$$$ active preamps, in manufacturing, distribution or in retail to try to keep them alive and kicking, they will succumb one day, just like the poor old dinosaurs did.

Cheers George