2. amps-preamps
  3. 140146-108796

What will a preamp do for me?

Missing in the chain below is a preamp - I use the DAC to control volume.  This is my only source and will be for some time.  What could I gain by adding a preamp?

I have Thiel CS 2.3s driven by a BAT VK-55, sourced by PS Audio PW DAC, with bridge II, mostly tidal.  The DAC serves as a preamp in terms of volume control.  Mostly Audioquest cables, amp power cord is Cardas Clear m, all fed by PS Audio upc-200.

I am am hoping to improve the highs, which sometimes sound smeared, too much sibilance; would like more air and clarity.  Loud rock sounds flatter, less dynamic than I’d like.  I am not willing to give up the deep detailed and beautifully resonant mids.  Willing to spend up to $3000, used is ok.  Totally balanced is a must.  Not currently willing to entertain the idea of different speakers - my goal is to make the 2.3s sound as good as reasonably possible before moving on to other speakers.  It’s easy to find a really good preamp in this price range, so much so I am almost paralyzed by the choices.  Aesthetix , Ayre, ARC, several BAT, Parasound and more all have apparently excellent models in my price range.  Patience would put Atma-sphere and PS Audio within reach.  Which is best for my situation?  There’s no way to audition all of these, how could I avoid getting on a preamp merry-go-round?  Or should I spend my money elsewhere?
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soundsrealaudio's avatar
soundsrealaudio
756 posts
 
Well the right preamplifier should increase the size of the sound stage making it more expansive creating a bigger sound. deHavilland uses big tubes in their preamplifiers which do just that. Many tube pre's use smaller little tubes, partially so they can put a cage over the top for cosmetic reasons. 
They will customize the pre so it will match the input levels for peak performance. Take a look.
nekoaudio's avatar
nekoaudio
489 posts
 
Could you bring your DAC over to a friend who has a preamp, to see if running your DAC at full volume eliminates the issues you hear at home, but running it below full volume adds it back in? That seems like a reasonable way to test if the volume control is having an impact on the sound quality.

Different preamps will have different impacts on the sound character when added to an existing audio chain.
stereo5's avatar
stereo5
6,453 posts
 
I would look into a BAT preamp, will jell nicely with your BAT amp. 
tastyfreeze's avatar
tastyfreeze
135 posts
 
The entry-level setup works.  Adding better control signals moves you to the next level.  Rock On!

tcatch
37 posts
 
I was in a similar situation last year, running the PS Audio Directstream DAC directly into my power amp.  It sounded good but not as good as I wished it did.  So I swallowed hard and bought their BHK signature preamp.  Sound is much improved, in just the ways you seem to be looking for.  I was able to get one for significantly less than list price from Upscale Audio -- pretty close to the price for a used one and to the top of your budget range.  You might give them a call and see what they are willing to do.  (On the other hand I am not in a position to say that this current model sounds drastically better than the used one you can get for a tenth the price. Haven't heard the 4.6.  Or the Schiit)
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