2. amps-preamps
  3. 1063393115

Preamps. Do we really need them?

I've been shopping for a new preamp lately, reading the forums, etc. If I have only one source, a DAC into which all my digital components feed into, do I really need a preamp and not just a volume control. After all, that's all I really need from a preamp. I've heard about passive rigs that just control volume, or attenuate it. I understand that you lose some volume if, the source's output isn't enough to drive the amp staight. I'm willing to make that sacrifice.
sjh32
unsound
7,329 posts
 
I've heard some really good passive systems and some really unimpressive ones. Preampless(?) rigs require very carefull attention to system synergy. Going without a pre-amp is harder, but, can work very well indeed.
flemke
596 posts
 
It's up to you. I just just started using a Musical Fidelity 3.2 preamp after running the EVS attenuators for over a year. I found that I was missing a lot. The sound is much more open deep,and detailed.

Tim
pmkalby
130 posts
 
Timo-

I think you are correct that many preamps add "body" to music, and I'll always have a preamp since I have a system with many sources of varying output levels.

BUT how would a preamp change PRAT? I tend to believe PRAT is source dependent exclusively. If the device spinning flat stuff, whether read by laser or by stylus delivers a signal with good PRAT to the preamp, where exactly in the circuitry does the preamp alter this and how?
sogood51
2,157 posts
 
Pmkalby, the signal is stored in the buffer, cleaned up and then released as a new signal full of PRAT, you didn't know that?

Dave
gunbei
2,327 posts
 
Pace, Rhythm, And Tequila!
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