Which preamp with Quad 12L


Hello everyone,

Just recently brought a new pair of Quad 12L Active speakers. I am currently using a Squeezebox Touch directly into the Quads and I do honestly love the sound. In addition hey look wonderful so their proudly displayed in the living room instead of the basement.

These are keepers in my book for my situation but I would include the following.

1. Volume control other than the digital one found in the Touch
2. Multiple inputs so I can connect my two other sources.
3. Balanced outputs which is recommended for these speakers.

Is a preamp the best solution for the above or is getting an outboard dac better? I want whichever is most cost effective. For whichever option how much would I have to spend to get good results and what should I be getting (brand model wise).
daimbert
I thought mine sounded pretty good hooked up to a benchmark DAC. I used the volume control on the benchmark.
That is what I was thinking. Benchmark has a version with a remote volume control, too. Have heard that these units are very revealing, almost to the point of sounding "cold," but that depends on your ears, your music, your speakers, your amp, and your room, so I say go for it!
I have a Halo P3 pre amp and I love it, it has balanced outputs, I don't use them, but I'd like to someday.
Also fitting your bill would be the Emotiva XDA-1, a DAC with remote control and balanced outs. On clearance right now at Emotiva's website, I just noticed.