Novice requesting preamp options

Thanks for the suggestions.  So it seems from the replies that just using a DAC is a good way to go as it can substitute for a preamp?
I guess the next question is in my price range can I get a DAC that would sound similar to a older, used "conventional" preamp?  And I know there's probably so many different opinions on this that it may be a worthless question.  But as a beginner in all this, it's the question that comes to mind.
Anybody know of any comparison tests done between good DAC's and, say, something like a Shindo preamp?
Thanks

Andrew,

there is is certainly nothing stopping you from getting a preamp, and you may indeed acquire one at some point.  My suggestion is to put the cash into the source, and if that source does not require a preamp, that means you can have more budget freedom for a better source.

I recently read a post from an enthusiast who compared his PS Audio PWD connected directly to his power amp to the more common configuration through his preamp.  Darn it I should have copied the link for you!  His results compared a dozen different demo songs, and in some cases he prefered the conventional setup, while in other cases he preferred the DAC on its own.  No doubt you can find this or similar posts.

With your budget, I do still think you'd be best served with a 2nd hand DAC to handle both duties, the digital and the preamp functions.  I am not so sure if you can realistically look for a DAC that will approximate a particular preamp sound as you asked here.  I certainly may be wrong, but I would focus all on the performance of the DAC itself and see how it goes.  My guess is that you will be very pleased with most DACs that can command a $1500 price on the 2nd hand market. My vote still goes to the PS Audio PWD MkII, biased to be sure because I have one! 

The PWD mk II with bridge mk II allows you some network benefits such as not using a USB cable, and rather connecting with a standard computer network cable, in which case the bridge acts as your player, and a darned good one at that.  

A different approach is to buy a preamp which includes a DAC. This way you'll have a fully functional preamp with multiple inputs plus an onboard DAC unit to play back computer audio or a music server.

The Peachtree Audio novaPre is widely recommended around the forums...
http://www.enjoythemusic.com/magazine/equipment/0613/peachtree_audio_novapre_dac.htm
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Sorry, this Peachtree has been discontinued. But I still believe that a full function preamp/DAC is the way to go.

Something to keep in mind when adding a preamp to your system is  that the gain and impedance specs will need to match your amp.
If this http://www.butleraudio.com/tdb2250.php is the Butler TDB 2250 amp you own, then there would be no problem matching just about any preamp to it.
 

Thanks for the suggestions. So it seems from the replies that just using a DAC is a good way to go as it can substitute for a preamp?

That’s a blanket statement; not all DACs have the features or flexibility of a preamp. A preamp imparts a certain timbre or sonic signature that sets the mood or emotion of a system (many owners desire this). It also acts as a switching device between different sources; i.e., CD, phonostage or TT, tuner.

Anybody know of any comparison tests done between good DAC’s and, say, something like a Shindo preamp?

If you are asking about Shindo components, please realise that they are high-end and costly gear. Much higher than your budget. If you are able to find a used Shindo tube preamp, grab it. It would be the gem in your system.

Rowland Capri