Is simpler better?


I have been adding components in my audio systems and subtracting as well at times. Over some time now, I wondered if I hear better resolution, dynamics, clarity and get closer to the recorded music when I keep the path short and simple. I mean one source, one integrated amp and to the speakers. Or even a digital component to a DAC then to the integrated amp and finally to speakers. Bypassing the preamp or in some cases bypassing a separate DAC. It certainly elimates the need for redundant volume or gain, reducing wires or cables, reducing the chance for incompatible components and keeping the path short.

For those using turntable(s), does the combination of phono preamp, platter, tonearm, cartridge, motor, isolation get to be too much to manage? To get the best sound? 

Your thoughts? Your experience?

128x1282psyop

Simple can be bettered by "better." There's no magic formula, and a simple setup is still actually a lot of parts in a box...is that source really simple or simply less parts?  A preamp can ad substance or not depending on its design and how the user implements it...power supplies, cables, humidity...

@p05129  & @riie ....*L*

1st thought, re K.I.S.S.:

IF (a 'biggie') one is lucky or stumbles well, minimalism ( Hi, @mahgister ... ;)...) is, or ought to be, the preference/reference we should strive for.
Less is more, less in the way, the signal path, all that....*S*

2nd thought:

K.I.S.S. v, Kiss: Still applies...😏

Happy 4th; take the 5th if the other 5th gets you in trouble....

"I didn't mean to blow up your manse, Vance!  Really!" 😆

Einstein said it best, “everything should be as simple as possible, but no simpler.”