2. amps-preamps
  3. 126097-68724

Best Preamp - NO preamp... (?)

A few hours ago I decided to experiment and bypassed my highly regarded, excellent passive preamp and hooked up my PS Audio DSD DAC directly to the power amp.
There is no going back...
Every aspect of the sound has improved so dramatically that I'm simply blown away. I'm a bit shocked, playing CD after CD and I still can't believe it.
My phono stage has gain control as well, so it seems that from now on it will be disconnecting RCAs and plugging each in turn.
Since I usually do vinyl day or cd day (or week) anyway, the trouble seems totally worth it. Letting the cable settle in for a bit is not an issue.
Am I just crazy or are any of you doing the same?
Should I be concerned about damaging  the RCAs over time?
Thanks for your thoughts and experience. :-)
ami

Showing 2 responses by electroslacker

electroslacker
375 posts
 
Wester17, I purchased the Benchmark DAC2 HGC because I wasn't sure if future plans would have it feeding an integrated (current), a preamp, or a power amp, and the HGC could be configured for either.  I had that audiophile yen for an exotic large box linestage, but could never quite understand what all that money was doing other than creating some preferred flavor, which is fine if it's preferred.  I think i always worried the direct-to-amp would be too raw and "un-prepped." But this discussion thread has given me the confidence to go balanced from the very clean Benchmark HGC, directly to the tube amp I want, knowing I can get a good impedance match.  Yes, the HGC has powered gain control, but I think that's all the "pre" I need.  I'm not contributing much, but showing gratitude for others.
electroslacker
375 posts
 
Thanks, George. You’re forgiven, and I think I’m healed for now.   What were those three temptations? Miracle, bread, and power….sounds like a devilish AR Ref 6 (lots of my bread.) Get thee behind me…but geez, it must be wonderful. One day at a time.
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