2. amps-preamps
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Should I eliminate my preamp?

I have been using my Audio Research tube preamp and Bryston amp to drive Magnepan speakers for years. Recently I added a Oppo blue ray player to my system and connected directly to my amp using the balance cables. The reason was to eliminate the signal having to go through another piece of equipment before it hits the amp. Am I wrong or what am I missing?
elf1
4425
861 posts
 
No way. We all consider this at some point. A great preamp always preferable in my opinion. Give each a weeks listen then decide. 
jaybe
740 posts
 
A high quality (and usually higher priced) pre will only enhance the listening experience. Most people who say no preamp speak on theory or have just never used a good enough pre to hear the difference themselves.
phomchick's avatar
phomchick
209 posts
 
The theory is correct. Any preamp will add frequency response anomalies and distortion. You may prefer that sound to the unmodified signal, but it is good to be honest (as most of the posters in this thread have been) about what is actually going on. Sometimes I enjoy the listening to different DSP settings in my Yamaha A/V receiver  :-)
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cleeds
5,960 posts
 
phomchick
Any preamp will add frequency response anomalies and distortion
Quite so. But with the best preamps, those levels are far below the threshold of audibility.
markwatkiss
508 posts
 
Any DAC or digital front end I've ever used as volume control simply,and I've owned some expensive ones,doesn't have the rich fullness of a top tier tube pre amp.
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