The Best Preamp is no Preamp?
So recently I've discovered the possibility of completely removing my preamp from my rig. I've never heard or considered this before, so much audio tradition... But in going directly from DAC to amplifier the sound quality is absolutely incredible, instantly had me grinning. Using music server to Chord M Scaler to Chord Qutest (cut out Marantz SR5015) to go directly to dual Emotiva XPA-DR1 monoblocks, to GR Research's 24 strand speaker wire to Magnepan 1.7i's. Only difference is running volume on server vs Marantz remote, sound quality is the biggest jump I've ever heard with any gear.
Have you guys had experience cutting out the preamp from your rig? What's your thoughts?
Some direct drive systems MAY work if all the stars align. A preamp is designed to give your amp the signal it needs and in most cases they are a better electrical match than using a passive control or your source volume control. But like I said sometimes things work without a preamp...but don't count on it. |
Technically speaking output from Dacs doesn‘t need further amplification: unless you have a weird input impedance for your power amp all that‘s required is a good attenuator. If your dac possesses a stepped relay attenuator rather than a digital bit-lossy attenuator the addition of a pre will only add distortion and the pre‘s specific voicing. |
+2 to what @ghdprentice @lowrider57 and others already shared. And, long listening sessions with a triode based tube preamp can be extra-engaging too. It comes down to what type of sound and presentation you prefer. |
Bingo! This is totally system and listener dependent. First, and most important question — what preamp were you using before? My guess, if you actually demo a good preamp your song will change. I’ve found the preamp to be, other then speakers and my room, to be the most consequential component in my system. Also, your amps are meh so that’s something else to look at. Ignore the preamp at your peril. |
