2. digital
  3. 180443-147162

To preamp or not to preamp. That is the question.

I have recently set up a second system from some previously owned components which I though I would use for occasional listening as I have a better rig in a dedicated music room. Yet I find I'm listening to it more than expected and want to optimize it.

I use only a single source, a Bluesound Node 2i, feeding directly into a Forte 4a Class A power amp and some Totem Model one signatures speakers. No preamp! Controlling the volume with the BlueOS app, the system plays loud enough for my listening needs but I know the output of the Node is on the low side for the power amp. I'm not looking to upgrade the current speakers, amp or streamer. Other than having more gain, would adding an active preamp bring anything to the table other than more expense and additional "stuff" in the audio chain. What has been the experience of other members been who have gone this route?

128x128alvinnir2
erik_squires
16,007 posts
 

The two items are color and resolution.  Digital volume controls are a lot better now than they were, but a linear volume control has less chance of muddying the digitial signal, or at least they would with early DAC's.

The other reason is color.  Sweetness, bass extension, treble detail.

The idea IMHO, if you ignore the possible (and now small) effects of digital volume controls, is whether it actually sounds BETTER to you.  Not measurably better.  Pleasurably better.

russ69's avatar
russ69
3,425 posts
 

You have heard this before; "The preamp is the heart of a system". You can argue that from many angles, but millions of audiophiles are not wrong. 

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mresseguie's avatar
mresseguie
45 posts
 

I've tried going without a preamp three times with different components. While the sound was 'okay/listenable' twice and unpleasant once, all three times the music quality (and my enjoyment) increased once I placed my tube pre back in the loop. Apparently, I enjoy jb52's 'noise and distortion' in my systems. 😁  That said, I know guys who don't use a preamp, and they're perfectly happy with their sound. 

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