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Any comments on DAC directly to Power amp with no

Do you have any comments of running a DAC directly to power amplifier with no preamp? I can think of several advantages to not using a preamp but would really like your opinion, since, it seems, many of us are opting to go direct these days.

For example, let us assume the DAC goes straight into the power amp's XLR inputs; the DAC's volume control is digital, runs in 32 bits (or 24bits) and is very well implemented.

I have been told that some users do not like the idea of running a volume control well down in its range so use fixed attenuators but many have reported a loss of SQ in the process. Others have stated that they prefer the sound through a preamp stage. And, as expected, others state the sound quality is improved when the preamp is eliminated.

I hope to test these options, with and without the pre-amp, shortly and am interested in hearing about your experiences.

Any comments on this would be appreciated.
hgeifman
mitch2
4,007 posts
 
Your amp is reported to be a very nice sounding Class A design. However the 42K ohm input impedance is IMO on the fence for going DAC-direct. Not bad, but higher would be better.
If you look at the threads about passive vs. active preamps you will get a sense for the different sonic characteristics associated with the two approaches.
As pointed out above, there are many variables not the least of which is the quality of the preamp. Other factors include the volume control implementation coming from the DAC or whether an auto former or transformer volume control is used, among many other considerations.
One DAC that is supposed to have a very well-implemented volume control is the Empirical Audio Overdrive SE, and I am sure there are others.
At the end of the day, you will have to use your ears to make this type of choice.
bill_k
915 posts
 
In addition to the factors mentioned above by Czarivey, it often comes down to the quality of the active preamp you're considering. It is therefore recommended that you try it both ways in a given system to determine which way you prefer, as well as whether the additional cost of the preamp is justified.
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cleeds
5,960 posts
 
If use any analog sources, you need a preamp.
georgehifi's avatar
georgehifi
10,312 posts
 
Hgeifman hi,
Your Ayre QB-9 DSD DAC (if it has volume/level control) from it's single ended outputs at 71ohms and 2v will be a perfect impedance match going direct into the single ended 42kohm "main in" on your of your Luxman L-590ax.
This will give you the most transparent sound possible compared to anything else.
If you use the XLR outputs then you have 4v from the Ayre and this may be too much gain.

Cheers George
charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,250 posts
 
Hgeifman,
You have received good replies, this topic has been covered multiple times
on this site. By now thousands of opinions are available to read and will be
no different from what you'll get this time around. There's no single answer
that will be applicable to everyone as too many variables exist. It depends
greatly on the quality of the particular preamp and what type of sound you
are seeking. You'll get many supporters on either side of this. Truthfully
you just have to compare both approaches directly in your system, listen
and decide. This debate won't be resolved with universal consensus.
Good luck to you.
Charles,
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