To Preamplify or not to Preamplify...that is the question.

[Grasshopper]

I've been going back and forth on either upgrading my current DAC (with digital volume control), or buying a proper preamp (tube or solid state). There are a host of opinions on the subject. I thought I'd start a thread discussing the merits of the preamp, or merits of a shorter signal path going DAC direct.

What are your experiences out there in AA land?

To preamp...or not preamp!!!

[-E-]

If your DAC has a proper Pre stage, then you don't need one (unless you need additional inputs for something).

First three that come to mind: McIntosh MDA1000, AMR DP-777 (even has analog inputs), Bel Canto DAC3.5bv MKII.

[Grasshopper]

Originally Posted by Vesuvius

If your DAC has a proper Pre stage, then you don't need one (unless you need additional inputs for something).

First three that come to mind: McIntosh MDA1000, AMR DP-777 (even has analog inputs), Bel Canto DAC3.5bv MKII.

Thanks for the reply. I currently have the W4S DAC2 and have been considering getting the DSDse upgrade. I am all digital for inputs, except HT bypass as my system is integrated.

[-E-]

I'd vote for new DAC over upgrading.

[Grasshopper]

I've thought about a new DAC as well.


But I'd really like to get AA members direct experience on going DAC direct vs. DAC to preamp. If the best preamp is adding no color or sound signature whatsoever...isn't the best preamp removing one from the chain altogether?

Anyone out there remove the preamp from their chain and not look back? Or the opposite, add a preamp and not look back?

[mgbaron]

Originally Posted by Vesuvius

If your DAC has a proper Pre stage, then you don't need one (unless you need additional inputs for something).

First three that come to mind: McIntosh MDA1000, AMR DP-777 (even has analog inputs), Bel Canto DAC3.5bv MKII.

That's interesting. I have the Bel Canto DAC3.5vb MKII but I've never tried it without my C2300. I have a hunch that I prefer it with the preamp. I'll give that a try tonight.

[-E-]

Originally Posted by Grasshopper

I've thought about a new DAC as well.


But I'd really like to get AA members direct experience on going DAC direct vs. DAC to preamp. If the best preamp is adding no color or sound signature whatsoever...isn't the best preamp removing one from the chain altogether?

Anyone out there remove the preamp from their chain and not look back? Or the opposite, add a preamp and not look back?

You can go search some threads I have done where we've done direct comparisons of DACs (and using them as Preamps, too).

And you are correct, the pre adds (or removes) color.

[Cincy2]

Originally Posted by Grasshopper

Anyone out there remove the preamp from their chain and not look back? Or the opposite, add a preamp and not look back?

Yes. I pulled a Halcro DM8 out of the loop when I upgraded to a dCS DAC. I can't say what part of the substantial sound improvement was due to elimination of the pre but overall the sound gives me everything I want. The music I love (classical and acoustic jazz) lends itself to low power levels. My Vivaldi DAC has two analogue outputs (0-2V and 0-6V). I have never had to use the wider range on any recording.

Cincy

[Grasshopper]

Originally Posted by mgbaron

That's interesting. I have the Bel Canto DAC3.5vb MKII but I've never tried it without my C2300. I have a hunch that I prefer it with the preamp. I'll give that a try tonight.

I'm anxious to hear what you discover mgbaron! I suspect you'll note the c2300 smooths out the sound considerably which "colors" the sound. I'd guess that without a pre is more "accurate" in your case, but with the pre is more pleasing.

[Grasshopper]

Originally Posted by Vesuvius

You can go search some threads I have done where we've done direct comparisons of DACs (and using them as Preamps, too).

And you are correct, the pre adds (or removes) color.

Cool. I will try that.

If you get bored and have a link to your favorite one it'll make me happy too .