Do I need a preamp?

[Supercronopio]

I'm considering making some changes to my system. I no longer use a turntable. I just don't have the patience for it. The Mac Mini is the primary source of audio and video, wether I am watching iTunes, Hulu, or Netflix or streaming Pure Music or MOG. I feel in the future I will primarily purchase some cd's or SACDs and stream more. Do I need a preamp?

I really like the set up I have now, but as usual, it's time for a change. I'm considering trading the C500t and the MC501s for a MCD1100 and a pair of 601s. I'd sell the qb9 as well. I realize Mc has to release the update for the 24/192 USB input.

I've read the reviews, and I've seen the commentary about preferring the preamp in chain instead of coming directly out of the preamp. It seems to me the improvement in amplification and the simplicity of having 2 fewer components will even out the differences.

Will I regret it?

I will get superior SACD, additional digital inputs, and a single box.
I will lose the tube preamp sound and the ability to add additional components.

What do you think?

[Alberto]

I loved the idea of skipping the preamp (cost, cables, more boxes, etc.) but every time I've tried it, I've gone back to having a preamp.

Other people have been very happy without one. Best thing is to try going pre-ampless and see how you like it.

Alberto

[tsv_1]

I currently use my W4S DAC2 as a preamp... I also like the idea of fewer components - the less encumbrance to the signal, the better (or so goes the premise I've labored under for many years).

As it turns out though, there's just no way for me to easily connect my Oppo95 source into my system (via analog outs) without some sort of preamp. I also want to leverage some tube warmth in my system, but not at the expense of losing fine detail or increasing the noise floor (two things I'm deathly afraid of).

So I'm searching now for a tube pre (or a really lovely sounding SS if I simply can't find a tube pre that will work for me within my budget).

Good luck with your decision! In the end, it really should be all about what sounds best to you.

Cheers

[Masterlu]

Likewise, I have tried doing without a Pre-amp multiple times only to come back to one. It just sounds "right" having a Pre-amp in the loop.

[jfray]

I am currently using the MCD1100 as my preamp and it sounds great! If you are running all digital sources then you should try it. I even called McIntosh and spoke with one of their engineers and he said it a great pre and did not think the C1000 was needed. If I were to consider a C500 in my system; I would need to try it at home first before I would buy it (the MCD1100 is that good).

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[joeinid]

Originally Posted by Masterlu

Likewise, I have tried doing without a Pre-amp multiple times only to come back to one. It just sounds "right" having a Pre-amp in the loop.

I totally agree. I like a preamp in the loop.

[Masterlu]

Originally Posted by jfray

I am currently using the MCD1100 as my preamp and it sounds great! If you are running all digital sources then you should try it. I even called McIntosh and spoke with one of their engineers and he said it a great pre and did not think the C1000 was needed. If I were to consider a C500 in my system; I would need to try it at home first before I would buy it (the MCD1100 is that good).

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Josh... I have both the MCD1100 and the C1000 trio. There is a noticeable improvement going through the C1000.

Furthermore; the Burmester system I just put together has an 089 CD player which has it's own Pre-amp built in. As good, and expensive as it is; the System sounds dramatically better when run through the 088 Pre-amp.

You wouldn't expect it to, but it definitely does. I would have loved to save what the 088 Pre costs, but I certainly heard the difference.

[joeinid]

Originally Posted by Masterlu

Josh... I have both the MCD1100 and the C1000 trio. There is a noticeable improvement going through the C1000.

Furthermore; the Burmester system I just put together has an 089 CD player which has it's own Pre-amp built in. As good, and expensive as it is; the System sounds dramatically better when run through the 088 Pre-amp.

You wouldn't expect it to, but it definitely does. I would have loved to save what the 088 Pre costs, but I certainly heard the difference.

Without even hearing the 089 with a preamp and without preamp, I expect the same outcome that Ivan experienced. The Burmester 111 is supposed to include a reference class preamp (along with reference DAC and reference cd player/transport) and I'm seriously thinking about trading in my 077 for the 111. I only have 1 or 2, maybe 3 sources and the 111 would really take care everything.

[jfray]

Originally Posted by Masterlu

Josh... I have both the MCD1100 and the C1000 trio. There is a noticeable improvement going through the C1000.

Furthermore; the Burmester system I just put together has an 089 CD player which has it's own Pre-amp built in. As good, and expensive as it is; the System sounds dramatically better when run through the 088 Pre-amp.

You wouldn't expect it to, but it definitely does. I would have loved to save what the 088 Pre costs, but I certainly heard the difference.

Hmmm.... I have heard some say this and I respect your opinion. I guess I will need to try a C500 or C1000 somehow without committing to buy unless I really like it.

One question comes to mind about the Burmester 111 and why that would not need a pre? I know that it is totally different than the 1100.... but 1100 is their flag ship model. It feels funny to buy a pre with all the functionality and inputs.... but use only one input??

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[jfray]

Originally Posted by joeinid

Without even hearing the 089 with a preamp and without preamp, I expect the same outcome that Ivan experienced. The Burmester 111 is supposed to include a reference class preamp (along with reference DAC and reference cd player/transport) and I'm seriously thinking about trading in my 077 for the 111. I only have 1 or 2, maybe 3 sources and the 111 would really take care everything.

Well you answered my question before I asked it

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