Using external DAC with preamp with built-in DAC

I hooked up my old Arcam DAC to the line in's and did an A/B against the resident DAC in my integrated. The resident DAC in the integrated uses a lower end ESS chip compared to the TI chip in the Arcam, but the Arcam DAC is close to 15 years old. The lower end but newer ESS chip sounded better to me.. 

I just got a Quad 33 all analog preamp, using an outboard SMSL DO200 Pro DAC with it. The signal path is all balanced XLR. The Quad has MM/ MC phono, a good headphone amp, and useful tone controls, for well under $2K. I had a C-J PF-R before this, and I like this better. 

@yoyoyaya - Yes, I am looking at more affordable preamps.

Thanks everyone for your comments and suggestions!

Have 2 Benchmark LA-4 pre amps. NO DAC inside,  Using both balanced. Made in NY, 30day trial I believe, remote extra. Around 3k each, definitely priced very fairly. Rory,  who will answer the phone is very knowledgeable!  If you try it, You will keep it!