Digital volume controls are the algorithmic cousins of mp3s.
In such an instance, the preamp has to be pretty contemptible if it cannot beat the digital volume control.
Don't fall for it, if a manufacturer will not name the specific algorithm used for digital volume attenuation, then you are most probably getting significant digital distortion. Don't be fooled by price, either, you can spend well over $1k and still get this sneaky problem.
I don't know what the monetary lower bound is for good preamps, but for starters, for $500 you can get a used TVC. Used Van Alstine is under $1k. A used AES is under $1k. New or used Mapletree, under $1k. Any of these should be a sonically good foundation for the rest of your future system.
In such an instance, the preamp has to be pretty contemptible if it cannot beat the digital volume control.
Don't fall for it, if a manufacturer will not name the specific algorithm used for digital volume attenuation, then you are most probably getting significant digital distortion. Don't be fooled by price, either, you can spend well over $1k and still get this sneaky problem.
I don't know what the monetary lower bound is for good preamps, but for starters, for $500 you can get a used TVC. Used Van Alstine is under $1k. A used AES is under $1k. New or used Mapletree, under $1k. Any of these should be a sonically good foundation for the rest of your future system.