Depends? Sure , High end preamp would be better than a cheapie . Better than no preamp ? Depends on the source and number of sources. Many sources would benefit from preamp. One terrific source with built in volume control , in my opinion is better than adding a high end preamp. I tried a few preamps with my Pass Labs Xa 100.8 and MSB Analog DAC. Always preferred no preamp. Note I tried Pass Labs XP 22 and Audio
Research Ref 6. I would call these high end preamps. Every preamp I tried added coloration , diminished tops and bass and muddied transparency. I could not blame the additional power cable and interconnect because it was the same as the first interconnect and all the other power cables. Tried in my system back to back settling the run in preamp and cable in my system . Maybe because the MSB volume control module module is so darn good.
Research Ref 6. I would call these high end preamps. Every preamp I tried added coloration , diminished tops and bass and muddied transparency. I could not blame the additional power cable and interconnect because it was the same as the first interconnect and all the other power cables. Tried in my system back to back settling the run in preamp and cable in my system . Maybe because the MSB volume control module module is so darn good.