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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
alvinnir2's avatar
alvinnir2 OP
112 posts
 

Thanks for that soix. I'll keep my eye out for something like that. Being in Canada I'd like to try to source something up here to avoid high shipping, duty, taxes etc.

 

oddiofyl's avatar
oddiofyl
3,834 posts
 

I have tried going direct from more than one DAC direct into an amp and it sounded OK , not spectacular.    Put a great preamp in the loop and BAM , everything snaps back into focus, has depth , bass, and great extension.  A soul.....

If your system sounds great sans preamp that's great but it's not for me.   

charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,250 posts
 

@oddiofyl 

Put a great preamp in the loop and BAM , everything snaps back into focus, has depth , bass, and great extension.  A soul

Yep! My experience as well. Holistic, breath of life, more of a complete and realistic sonic-music rendering presentation.

There are smart and talented designers with good ears who exert much time and effort to produce these excellent preamplifiers. I'm grateful these folks exist.

Charles

oddiofyl's avatar
oddiofyl
3,834 posts
 

Even in my early days of separates I always spent more to get the best preamp I could .  It is the heart of a great system, absolutely without question.    Anyone that strongly disagrees most likely has never had a class leading or world class preamp in their system or has never had first hand experience with a reference quality preamp.   I have , and I sold it to fund my endgame preamp.   

mesch
3,481 posts
 

OK, you are looking for more gain for a secondary system with a 1K budget and willing to buy used. This is doable and I believe will prove beneficial.

Now on to the search.

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