What's not system dependent is with digital domain volume control, bits are dropped when not operating full range and resolution suffers. Whether you can hear the difference is system dependent ... depends on the quality of your system.
Sabai, My system is posted on this site, and I don't use the Data Stream DAC. My comment was a general observation based on hearing numerous audio systems over the years. If direct source to amplifier sounds better to you then that's the right way to go. It just hasn't been true in my listening encounters.
I just checked the specs for the Direct Stream. The balanced out is 5.3Vrms 200 ohms. Then I checked the balanced output of the BSG QOL and its output is 10Vrms 50 ohms. So, perhaps that is why I don't need the preamp.
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