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CD player connected directly to Amplifier?

I've been noticing some CD players which can be connected directly to the amp; in many models, its the recommended way to play them. I've never done this, but it seems like a good way to go assuming one has a nice high-end cd player equipped for such a task. I see the obvious advantage of foregoing the expense of a separate preamp, especially in a combined HT/2 channel rig like my own. Is there an obvious advantage in performance? Anyone have any thoughts or experience with this method?
michaeljbrown

Showing 2 responses by rjhalla

rjhalla
47 posts
 
I'm expecting my new MCD500 any day now, one of the biggest reasons I went with this particular player is its ability to drive my amp directly.

I had the opportunity to try out an MCD201 driving my amp directly for 4 days....after far too many hours of listening in such a short period I concluded that even the best pre was worth avoiding.

Rick.
rjhalla
47 posts
 
Whenever you can remove a component from the signal path you are very likely improving the resultant sound. If adding a pre improves the sound then it is likely you prefer what is being added, but in real terms it also means you don't really like the source you purchased and you are changing the inherent character.

For those that have yet to hear a cd or sacd player sound better driving an amp directly....well I challenge to plug an MCD500 or MCD301 into your system and report back.
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