I have owned many preamps most all types as well as integrated etc. And it's about synergy some systems just sound better with active over passive or direct. You can get more impact dynamics and overall better sound quality if your system requires an active over passive. At this time I tend to prefer tube preamplification over my solid-state or passives or direct DAC to the amp. But as I mentioned it depends on the system after all we listen to systems, not components.
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?
- ...
- 116 posts total
If you have a strong enough signal to drive a power amp, why add more electronics? You need some way to switch sources and a volume control. Active electronics are not necessary, and, as you have discovered, can only make things worse! Good for you! My testing, evaluating, and office/lab/workroom system has no pre-amp. Don't spend money on what you don't need! |
@ozzy62 I agree a passive can be preferable to dac only setup. My active pre is in fact dual TVC. |
With respect to integrated amps, there are some that will put expensive two box solutions to shame. With separates I really believe some gear plays nice with each other and some doesn’t….synergy…. I have have people call BS on this but I believe it’s true. With an integrated there is less cable, less connections, less to fail hopefully. So with a good integrated the control and amplifier sections complement each other and are well sorted out. I have nothing against integrated amps …. Some awesome ones out there |
- 116 posts total