2. amps-preamps
  3. 192478-110266

Preamp issue

I am having a problem with my preamp would like some feedback/guidance from the members of this forum.

For the past two years my system has been a WIIM Pro to PSAudio Stellar Gain DAC to Backert Labs Rhumba 1.0. preamp to Classe CT2300 amp to Harbeth SHL5 speakers, 

System worked fine and I liked the sound. But, then you get the itch. . .

I was interested in trying to an r2r DAC so I purchased a used (one year old) Denafrips Pontius II 12th DAC. Today I swapped out the PSAudio DAC, fired up the system and listened for about 5-10 minutes, then there was a POP in the speakers and the Rhumba preamp went into its mute mode. I shut everything off and restarted the components now have low frequency(100Hz?), low volume, vibrating sound coming out of both speakers. I have swapped out pieces from a second system an definitely isolated the problem to the Rhumba preamp. 

I am going to have the pream repaired. But since the Rhumba preamp failed shortly after swapping in the Denafrips DAC-

Could the Denafrips DAC have caused the preamp to fail? How? Was it just coincidence? Should I have the Denafrips tested as well or just return it and find a different r2r unit? Your input will be appreciated. Thank you in advance.

Happy Holidays

128x1282tuby
2tuby's avatar
2tuby OP
35 posts
 

Silverfoxvtx1800

I’m 73 and thinking it is time to change as well. Solid state and integrated.

Is the end of your handle the Honda?

fthompson251's avatar
fthompson251
464 posts
 

I had a similar story with my VAC tube preamp and amp. I was the original owner for 25 years. They sat for quite some time before I came back to audio. I got them both repaired at VAC in Sarasota, and both units were down more than operational for 1.5 years. I sold them and got solid state-no regrets either. 

silverfoxvtx1800
181 posts
 

2tuby

If you go all solid state what’s your budget…it’s now or never…

invalid
1,207 posts
 

@evank why do the Denafrips dacs seem to have a static discharge problem?

paulcreed
564 posts
 

I was advised by Denafrips to touch the dac chassis with one hand before touching the buttons with the other hand. I’m guessing to ground the dac. I found that odd.  I don’t know if the static charge can damage a preamp but they are connected with interconnects. It could be possible if the charge is looking for a grounding point. 

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