I’ve had several dacs including the Berkeley reference dac. I’ve used it directly to an amp without a preamp with great results. The preamp section or volume control section of the Berkeley is superb but I always ultimately prefer a preamp.
While going directly to an amp seems to give more detail and ultimate resolution, adding a preamp, especially tube, sweetens up and rounds out the music. I think a great preamp adds musicality and gives me a much better overall experience. I can listen longer and enjoy it more.
This is my opinion.
Are you happy with your sound now? Do you think you are missing anything now?
While going directly to an amp seems to give more detail and ultimate resolution, adding a preamp, especially tube, sweetens up and rounds out the music. I think a great preamp adds musicality and gives me a much better overall experience. I can listen longer and enjoy it more.
This is my opinion.
Are you happy with your sound now? Do you think you are missing anything now?