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Need A Quick Education

I am narrowing down a short-list of preamplifiers that have the features I want. Unable to audition them, I wanted to know what a good "Signal to Noise" ratio is. I am seeing 90dB through up to 102dB. Is a higher number here better? I know that with CD and SACD/DVDA players a higher S/N ration is a good thing, is it the same with preamps? If I run an SACD player through a preamp with a 90dB (or lower), what am I losing? BTW: all the pre's I am looking at are SS and the one in the lead has a s/n of 90dB. Thanks in advance!!
treyhoss
treyhoss OP
287 posts
 
I was under the impression that the lower the number (SNR) the less quiet it would be, in terms of "hiss", etc. I realize it will play music and maybe even play it well, but will I have to turn the volume up higher and (possibly) sacrifice a "black" background as opposed to a pre with a higher SNR?
creeper
251 posts
 
Don't go by the numbers. Hifi gear is voiced by ear, not by statistics. Many "reference" pieces don't look good on paper, but delight the ears. When ever possible, demo gear before buying and trust your ears. Happy hunting!
treyhoss OP
287 posts
 
I'd love to do that but I don't have a dealer in my area!
czbbcl's avatar
czbbcl
1,752 posts
 
Treyhoss

You might want to ask a couple of dealers that advertise here on AG if they would grant you an in home audition. I have seen a couple advertise that they would do this and besides it never hurts to ask. I agree with the other posters that you should never buy on specs.

Chuck
mwilson
430 posts
 
What about those of us with horns? You'd better pay SOME attention to the S/N ratio, because you'll hear the N quite a bit if you don't. Just hope the manufacturer posts accurate/honest measurements. Wait... did someone say you just have to listen?

Trey is right to ask - I have a pre/pro that has a S/N ratio that is "better than 90db A weighted", and at idle it sounds a little like listening to the inside of a seashell with my Klipsch la Scalas.
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