Digital Only Preamps - What's out there now?


Hello everyone,

I became a fan of what I call "digital only" preamps with the Theta Casanova I owned. I loved the sound and capabilities of it so much, and was literally crushed when Theta Digital delayed HDMI and then never produced a working Supernova. Maybe "digital domain preamp" is a better phrase.

What made this pre remarkable, especially if we think of the era, is that it converted EVERYTHING to diigital. It wasn’t just a DAC, it had built in Analog to Digital converters to bring in everything, and allow for digital manipulation of the signal for the main speakers and subwoofer. I think there was even an add-on EQ card.

Anyway, enough waxing noxtalgic.

What preamps today meet the highest standards in audio quality while taking advantage of every digital goodie available?

Best,

E
erik_squires
Hi Erik,

IMO various DEQX models, such as their flagship model HDP-5 which I use, meet the criteria you stated. Although to be precise I would say "high standards in audio quality," rather than "highest standards in audio quality."

Best regards,
-- Al