2. amps-preamps
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Best Preamp = No Preamp?

I'm currently looking for some DACs. I'm looking at Benchmark DAC1, Bel Canto DAC3, Slim Devices Transporter, etc...

I noticed most of these newest high performance DACs have built in volume control with remote.

I'm thinking that I can connect these DACs directly to my Power Amp skipping preamp.

Is that right thinking? Why go through additional peice of device when I can avoid? Anybody doing it that way?

What'll be the pros and cons?

eandylee
kr4's avatar
kr4
3,707 posts
 
That's what they are designed to do. Downside? Do you have more sources? Need additional controls?

Kal
eandylee OP
124 posts
 
No. I only need a couple of digital inputs. One for a transport and one for computer.

What kinds of additional control would I need?

I'm wondering if there's sill added improvement using preamp as far as sound quality is concerned.
pubul57
3,712 posts
 
While you can do that, I think you'll find that most listners will suggest you still need an active preamp for optimal sound - that is the volume controls in DACs, while functional, are not up to the standards of dedicated preamplifiers.
getheleadout
144 posts
 
No, it's a common misconception. If you're using the volume control on your source unit, THEN that piece is pulling double duty as your preamp. PERIOD

The heart of any preamp is Volume control.

I guess it's just a matter of time before people using a receiver, start saying they're forgoing a tuner and preamp.
amfibius
282 posts
 
The other main con is that the outboard DAC may not have enough output to drive the power amps. Some DAC's only have the volume control as an afterthought.

I heard a system which was substantially improved by the addition of a preamp. Before the preamp was added, the system would run out of puff when given something dynamic to play. Even with the volume control maxed out, the system could not go higher than 85dB. CD's that were mastered at low volume were especially problematic - the lack of gain made these CD's much too quiet to listen to.

It all depends on your DAC and power amp. Specifically, the output voltage and output impedance of your DAC, and the input sensitivity and input impedance of your power amp. If these are poorly matched then you won't be happy.

All the best from sunny Australia!

Keith
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