Vali 2 ++ as a preamp?


Let me start by saying I am new to the hobby and welcome any constructive criticism/advice. I am looking into buying a Wiim Ultra to add the streaming capability to my current system: Wharfdale Lintons and a Leak Stereo 230 (or rather replace my current streaming setup, PS5 or TV, with Firestick). I have seen and read several reviews on the Wiim and think it is the best choice for me at this point and with my budget. My question is, has anyone used a Schiit Vail 2 ++ or something similar as a preamp to improve or warm the sound of the Wiim, or would adding something else into the chain invite noise and more issues? As a follow-up question, I have thought about adding one of the small Schiit DACs to the mix, as several reviewers said bypassing the Wiim's DAC improved the sound as well. Does this seem like a good idea, and if so, is one of the Schiit DACs (Modi or Modius) going to make a marked difference over the other? Also, please tell me if this makes no sense at all or if something else might be a better solution/option…

nukem11b

I would try the Wiim streamer directly into the analog input and also with bypassing the Wiim DAC using the Leak 230's DAC and see which is preferred prior to adding other components into your system.

@russ69 thank you for the feed back. I will look at the Cambridge streamers.

 

@mesch keeping it simple and using what I have is wise advice. I feel kinda dumb like that’s an obvious answer but thank you for pointing it out… my wallet will thank you too 😁