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Eliminated my preamp with amazing results

I pulled my preamp out completely. The result's were not subtle. 

For those who stream music only... I was going from my laptop... to my DAC...to my preamp...to my amp. My preamps ONLY function was volume control. Source control not needed.

I started using Audirvana recently which comes with it's own high quality 64 bit volume control that was far better than the potentiometer in my preamp. It dawned on me that I could control volume using Audirvana and plug my DAC directly into the amp and bypass the preamp altogether. (Roon and Jriver also have excellent volume controllers) Note: Audirvana has an app download on a tablet/phone so it acts like a remote control. I'm loving it!

This not only eliminated the preamps volume control but it took out ALL the electronics associated in a preamp including some cables. A FAR more direct route. However, you must use caution and make sure the volume is controlled properly in the software since the amp will be fed wide open volume.

Having experimented with 'passive' preamps in the past (McCormack TLC-1) I thought the sound would possibly lose dynamics and bass response would suffer. WRONG!

The results were...Shocking!! Immediately the extended depth of the image was noticeably deeper. Background darker. The highs are the best I've ever heard. Pristine. The bass was dynamic, tight and most of all 'textured' in a way I never heard before. As I stated earlier the results are NOT subtle! 

This is an experiment that took a few minutes to set up and yielded the best performance improvement of ANY other tweak I've ever tried. Not anything like using a passive preamp.

Equipment used...  Peachtree DAC-itx. 

                               Preamps...McCormack TLC-1 and Melos tube preamp.

                               Amp is McCormack DNA 0.5

Understand that different components will have different interactions with each other. Your results may vary. However, IF you don't like it, it takes just a few minutes to put the preamp back in the system. Nothing to lose and lot's to gain. After hearing this, I will NEVER go back to using a preamp. 

Good luck!

 

 

gdaddy1
jjss49's avatar
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jjss49
6,610 posts
 

the preamp vs direct-to-amp debate is a well worn one here on this board, there has been ample discussion in numerous posts over the years, including some very good, recent ones

as can be expected, the specifics will dictate results yielded, so it is great that the op tried for himself... in this digital age with many wonderful dacs having robust output stages, i have had success myself not running a linestage anymore

mahgister's avatar
mahgister
12,699 posts
 

I just add a tube pre-amp to my active speakers...

Here in my case it is for sure positive as i was expecting...

Correcting mismatch or compensation, or addition of something else like tubes in my case, it is always relative to many factors not only the gear synergy but the room  and your ears..

We cannot say buy a preamp always or i dont need one... It is each case  different ... And all pre are not from the same mold ...

 

 

audphile1's avatar
audphile1
4,288 posts
 

I have eliminated my preamp with amazing results at least 3 times…

ghdprentice
6,409 posts
 

@audphile1 

 

👍😊

amtprod's avatar
amtprod
102 posts
 

I recently tried using my Bel Canto DAC 2.8 direct into an older modified Adcom GFA-555 (Musical Concepts).  Source was either Google Audio puck, or a Apple MacMini. So far, I really like it a ton, and can't detect any audio resolution issues with the (digital?) audio control on the Bel Canto.  Resolution, sound stage, detail, and drive are all very accurate, and I find the center image a LOT stronger.  Though, it doesn't have the "drive" like it had when using a Rega Elex-R integrated.

That system was a bit like having a loudness button on- great drive, power, presence, weight, but also condensed.  I am liking things more realistic and articulate so far. 

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