2. amps-preamps
  3. 164566-137654

Preamp or not.

I currently have the following setup Bluesound Node 2I, Topping D90, Pass XA25, Crites Type B speakers.
I originally had a Sunfire preamp but it failed. Then I upgraded my system last year. I tried a passive pre amp but removed it and now run the DAC direct to amp. The passive sounded fine but I ended up running it at full volume. No remote. I use the Bluesound ap to change volume. My thinking was less is better. My speakers are efficient and dynamic.

The Topping puts out 2V. Pass told me this is adequate. I am wondering what a preamp would do. How would it improve or degrade the sound? How much gain do I want from the preamp? Tube or solid state? Any other suggestions are welcome or should I just leave this alone? I don’t like buying, selling and failing. Here are some I saw that look interesting.

Pro-Ject Pre

Doge

Modwright

Van Alstine

I would like to spend 2000 or less. I don’t need Phono. Remote volume would be nice. Thank you again.

128x128daledeee1
jjss49's avatar
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jjss49
6,612 posts
 
https://forum.audiogon.com/discussions/high-end-stereo-preamps-worth-it?page=2

in particular, see mike lavigne’s post on second page... it covers well what is being asked

search bar above is always your friend... :)
soix
9,456 posts
 
If you can stretch a bit you could consider a Sachs pre that’d likely sound glorious with your wonderful amp.  Best of luck. 
raysmtb1's avatar
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raysmtb1
800 posts
 
I would consider a preamp with some tone control.that way you adjust some of the older recordings 
daledeee1's avatar
daledeee1 OP
563 posts
 
I finally understand the volume thing and explains "sounds better if it's turned up".  Much thanks @mlsstl .  I hope I wouldn't get too sensitive with the volume meaning small adjustments equal big volume swings.  The extra power supply might be a tradeoff for sensitivity.  Is that correct?  The speakers I have are about 100dB efficient(or higher)
mlsstl
1,436 posts
 
Power and sensitivity should not be an issue for you. The Pass amp needs roughly 1.25 volts input for its full 25 watt output at 8 ohms. Your Topping, at 2 volts max out, has more than enough to drive the Pass, so with your efficient speakers, you’re going to need to be cutting volume quite a bit (unless you are a full tilt all-the-time head-banger.)

So, the question becomes, what is the best tool for controlling the input voltage to your amp? You don’t need any more gain, so that points to a totally passive or unity gain analog preamp. This would allow you to run the digital signal at 100% (no bit loss) but still control the volume to your liking.

Besides the Saga+ mentioned before, Schiit also has a totally passive volume control -- the Sys, for only $49. But, it has no remote. Others have suggested other excellent preamps, though you’d want to consider the gain issue in choosing one of them.
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