2. amps-preamps
  3. 185830-165703

Do I REALLY need preamp and what do I upgrade the amp too?

Hey everyone-Let me share what I have and then get to the question:

Rotel RC-1590MKII

Rotel RB-1582 MkII

Gustaed DAC-X26 Pro

MAC Mini M2

B&W 805 S2 on 30” stands.

2x Rel T/5x subs using the oututs of the Rotel RB-1582 MkII

Nordost Blue Heaven Speaker cables bi-wire.

2x AQ Colombia RCA interconnects

5x AQ NRG-Z3AQ Power Cables

Core 1000 Power Conditioner

The room is 12x14 with area rugs.

Large L shaped desk with multiple 32” 4K monitors for work.

8x6 open wall is treated.

Ceiling is vaulted.

I listen 100% via Qobuz with Audirvana; all types of music.

Recently I bought an outboard DAC to see how it compares to the internal DAC of the 1590 and I was blown away at the improvement over the DAC built into the Rotel. 

Just today I thought why I would need a preamp if all I use is a the Gustard with variable outputs.  Why not go direct to the amp?

WOW OMFG!!  The difference was spectacular to say the least.  Not saying at all Rotel is a 2nd class, its not, I have massively enjoyed it over the last year.  It allows Roon and Sonos interoperability (Port) which I use often, but I am willing to make a sacrifice.

I have been a silent member for a couple years now.  So, given all the data above, if I sold/traded the Rotel pieces for a sinngle upgraded amp; assume I can get $2K USD out of what I have (concretive) and added $2K to the transaction what would the community recommended? 

I do like to shale the wall and believe in leaving SS electronics on all the time, so I guess that rules out tubes. 

Thanks in advance I am looking forward to the discussions.

 

 

sholladay
tonydennison's avatar
tonydennison
408 posts
 

I have a different setup to yours of course, but in my experience, a high-end pre adds magic, smooths out edges, sweetens midrange and anchors the bass. Of course everything is synergistic, right combo of tubes amps, the pre, source and cables, but in my system, the pre is a must.

Does it sound great without a pre? Yes, but it sounds, in my attempt at something meaningful, about 12% better.

Maybe get something from somewhere that has a long return window and low restocking fee and audition some stuff.

 

 

 

T

kota1
2,706 posts
 

You have a vaulted ceiling, have you measured your in room FR? I would not drop $ on gear if you don't have the response curve you want in that room. You can hang acoustic clouds to offset the ceiling reflections. 

SonoLite™ Cloud | Clouds, Sound proofing, Velour fabric

ghdprentice
7,051 posts
 

Typically running a DAC right into an amp will give you great clarity but be drained of the soul… the musicality. As many of us experienced audiophile say the preamp is the heart of the system, where the magic comes from. High quality sound can be gained by direct connection, but it is incredibly difficult (component matching) and expensive to do.

My rule of thumb for a well balanced optimal system the investment level of all the electronics is roughly the same… Streamer = DAC = Preamp = Amp. If I was going to put extra on something, my first choice is the preamp. A regular integrated amp’s investment is divided by two… since it is performing two functions.

I would look at your system this way, upgrading each component with a target level in mind. Typically I would start with the preamp.

kota1
2,706 posts
 

@ghdprentice 

Typically I would start with the preamp.

Before calibrating the room or in order to calibrate the room? (like getting a preamp with dsp)

sholladay OP
3 posts
 

Thanks everyone for the feedback.   I think the room is the best place to start.

BTW, is there a pre with DSP available other the from miniDSP?  No issue with that one just looking for variety :-)

Regards-

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