To Preamp Or Not To Preamp,That Is The Question

Mikey,

Many fine CD players from Theta, Wadia, Resolution Audio, Cary, Quad, etc., have variable volume control. I've owned CD players from Quad, Theta and Musical fidelity which had variable volume control. I've also owned DACs from Monarchy and Birdland which had variable volume control.

Currently I have an EVS Level-2 modified Oppo 970 that has variable volume control. Unlike the other players I've owned, this one uses digital volume control, which does lose resolution as you lower the volume. It's not optimal, but it still sounds great and I still enjoy the benefits of CE direct, plus I get DVD, DVD-A, SACD, etc. with the Oppo.....

Enjoy,

TIC

Seems as if only high end CDPs use vol control...and that adcom :)

Sorry if this has been hashed over and over...

I think we can finish with this thread...sorry for any time 'wasted'.

Hi Mikey,

I tend to agree with much of what Reubent advised: If it sounds good to you...; for classical music or hard driving...

The gain from a preamp can be a very desirable thing and help bring music too life, but it can't really make the signal better IMO.

There is no right.

In your case, a pre-amp is not needed since the volume can be adjusted at the source.

If you want to go for a different sound, there are many ways to go. You could run a music server and play via a network music player, like Squeezebox, Roku or similar. These have volume adjustments on board also so pre-amp is only needed if you have additional sources to switch between.

If you can get your hands on a McCormack Line Drive (should be cheap) it might be worthwhile. It gives you the option of going either passive or active.