Eliminated my preamp with amazing results

@mitch2 

Also, I am curious, are you running the direct (unbuffered, i.e.,  purely passive, volume control only) outputs from the TLC-1 or going through the buffered outputs.  I believe the buffered outputs provide unity gain, which should not result in any loss of dynamics and/or bass response.

Using neither. I have tried both outputs. Buffered sounds better imo but currently the preamp is completely disconnected. Perhaps the elimination of the volume control and cables is having a positive effect.

@amtrod 

Resolution, sound stage, detail, and drive are all very accurate, and I find the center image a LOT stronger.

Agreed. Much more holographic. The bass is tight and textured and the highs are just wonderful. 'S' sounds are clean. Overall more engaging.

I'm not getting rid of my preamp just yet. However, the sound is getting better the more I listen. 

BTW... Audirvana has a 'master volume max limiter'. If by chance you accidentally hit the volume slide bar it won't go over a prescribed level. I think Roon has the same protective feature.

So PC-software-DAC-amp brings up the question: what software/volume control to use to play PC files. I only experiemented to simply find the volume control/software that allows the highest output (amp input not sensitive enough). Didn't consider quality (and haven't concluded yet on easy of use regarding software choice). 

I assume, there are already lots of threads/posts on that subject. 

Not too long ago I had an OMG experience like the OP when playing the physical CD I had just ripped from my office laptop (with super long 25 ft USB C cable to Shiit DAC using same receiver and analog cable and switched between  (basic run of the mill) CD player and laptop. "NOT subtle". Never thought that the DAC even in a low budget system can make such a difference (obviously, the DAC in the CD player was horrible, and has since been upgraded). 

OP, you didn't mention your speakers and their specs. That's important, I think.

I have tried the following alternatives to my tubed preamp, with both tube and class A amps:

• eliminated the preamp -- result was harshness and lack of soundstage. The midrange lost all intimacy.
• tried a very high quality passive preamp -- same as no preamp, though not as harsh. Lack of vitality and oomph with my 89db sensitivity speakers, which are not that hard to drive, overall.
• tried a very quiet and neutral solid state preamp. Even tonality returned, most harshness disappeared, still not that much of a soundstage but there is one. There is vitality back in the presentation.

Of the three, the neutral solid state preamp was the best, but even it does not hold a candle to my deHavilland with a really great 6SN7 tube. It's just not close.

I am using a preamp, but it's a Hattor Audio passive device. I haven't heard any active preamp in my system (up to about 8K) that could beat a well designed passive. Not all systems will perform optimally without a preamp. But when it comes together, it's pretty darn good.

When I purchased my Lumin X1 a few years back, I started going direct to my mono blocks. And I totally agree, once I experienced music without the preamp in the chain I could never go back.

ozzy