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DACs that do well without a preamp

I am looking for a DAC to feed my DNA-1 gold power amp directly, streaming Qobuz or Tidal from a Bluesound Vault. Budget is $1-2K; would consider used, if worthwhile. Current contenders are Benchmark 3 HGC, Brooklyn DAC+, Gustard x26 pro, Holo Spring 3, Musetec 004 and Pontus ii. Looking for clean, detailed, uncolored sound that "lifts the veil". What are the qualities I should look for to drive an amp well, without a pre?
128x128cheeg
lordmelton's avatar
lordmelton
877 posts
 

The Holo Spring 3 had an analogue preamp option. Available used.

chilehed's avatar
chilehed
200 posts
 

Can only speak to the Benchmark 3 HGC. Without my preamp the the sound was lifeless and sterile. Overall the attributes I look for that get me closer to my perception of what the music should sound like where muted without my pre, of course YMMV.

antigrunge2
1,399 posts
 

Find a used Antelope Zodiac Gold or Platinum. They are superb

fastfreight
777 posts
 

i tried several DACs w analogue volume control.  All sounded better through my preamp.

I guess If you do not have a good preamp, it is a nice way to go.  A good preamp improves the sound to my ears, that I have tried.

 

I do get it, I ONLY have one digital input...but I love my preamp.

laaudionut
263 posts
 

I had to stand up a separate system during a renovation and found that my Hegel HD30 Dac performed beautifully when placed between streaming source and amp without a preamp. I bought it specifically for this possibility, as it has fantastic volume control.

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