alternatives to Lumin for preamp funcitonality ?

Hi,

I've had phenomenal success with the Lumin preamp functionality, very quiet and tons of gain

I've run a D2 and T2 direct to power amp (no physical preamp or other components)

I would like to go back to my Bluesound Node as a streamer (prefer the software)

Is there a DAC/preamp alternative that specifically has strong preamp functionality

I was thinking maybe RME? anything in the 2k range would work, not too picky in the dac section......more so the preamp

audiocanada05-22-2023 4:44pm

jbuhl Details Discussions Posts This discussion Message User 892 posts 05-24-2023 at 04:30pm Copy Comment URL Report Comment Edit Delete If you can find a Wadia 321 they employ the Sabre chip volume control. You can pick those up for ~$1k if you can find them. But I agree with previous post. My streaming always sounds a bit better going through my Rogue preamp. You can find Rogue RP-1s for around $1.5K then tack on a DAC within budget. Shiit Gungnir over on USAudio for $400. RP-1 and Parasound pre’s over on TMR as well. Even a Peachtree with a DAC and a Pre if your set on that. and also this: https://www.usaudiomart.com/details/649985297-ps-audio-direct-stream-junior/