Do preamps have a material affect on high level sources?


It would seem that a preamp is merely attenuating a DAC output. How can it alter the signal?
If it doesn't degrade the signal, would logic dictate that at best it has no affect.
Help me understand
vjpacor
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.
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