Is no preamp really better that a good preamp?

Not to disagree with two of my favorite and most respected A'gon colleagues (Ralph & Jon), but if:

1)The output stage of a source component can drive whatever power amp is being used and the associated interconnect cables without compromise, or, alternatively, at least as well as whatever preamp might be inserted between those components, AND

2)The volume control in the source component, assuming it has one, is EITHER:

(a)As transparent in the range of settings that would be used in the no preamp configuration of the system as it would be if set for use with a preamp (i.e., at or near max in typical cases), OR

(b)As transparent as the volume control that is provided in whatever preamp might be introduced into the signal path,

then it seems to me that the only way inserting a preamp into the signal path can result in sound quality that is subjectively preferable would be by producing an output that is less true to the source material (i.e., less accurate) than the signal that is provided to it by the source component.

And I believe that George is using the term "coloration," or "colouration" in Down-Under speak, to mean essentially the same thing as "inaccuracy."

Best regards,
-- Al

Yes Al, same, same, colourations, distortions, inaccuracy.

I use the word colourations when I'm being kind, after that when pi**'ed I'll start to use the proper term "distortions".

Cheers George

09-28-15: Almarg
Not to disagree with two of my favorite and most respected A'gon colleagues (Ralph & Jon), but if:

I too Al have respect for Ralph, and have praised his OTL amps many times in these forums and others when partnered with the "right speaker".
But I'm at a loss also in this thread, makes me think there is something else at play.

Cheers George

Thanks, Al, for your informative input as always.

What intrigues me is what I hear when I add a preamp in the chain(I started off direct from source to power amp).
I get more :-
1. dynamics
2. air around instruments
3. tonal body to instruments
4. solid bass foundation for orchestral works
5. soundstage depth, width and height
6. liquid flow of musical notes
7. musicality or PRAT

If all that is distortion, euphemisms aside, then so be it. Instruments just sound more natural and live than without the preamp.
When the supposedly more "accurate" signal sounds less natural and live, then things get very puzzling here. I can only trust my own ears, all electronics theory aside.

Cheers! J.

Answer for you again is here.
http://forum.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/fr.pl?ddgtl&1358613368&&&/Unsatisfied-with-Esoteric-K-01:-Alternat

Cheers George