I'm guilty! I'm the one who reached out to Fsmithjack regarding the Bricasti M1. I'm currently using my DSD connected directly to my amplifier. I had a Parasound JC2 preamp, but I thought the DSD direct was more transparent and sold the JC2. In hindsight, I realize that with the DSD direct I'm loosing dynamics, the sound isn't as full, and it's a little bright. My dilemma is to keep the DSD and get a new preamp or sell the DSD and purchase a new DAC. My concern...how well does the M1 function as a preamp? I guess I will know in a couple of weeks!