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Configuration Questions

My system comprises a Musical Fidelity B1 integrated amp, a pair of B&W DM 610i's, and a Cambridge Audio DacMagic.

I love my amp but it hasn't a volume control, so I purchased a Creek OBH-10 preamp with volume control. So now I have DacMagic --> Creek Preamp --> Musical Fidelity integrated amp.

Here's the question: what is the best way to use the integrated and the preamp together? I'm currently using the CD input, setting the volume on the integrated amp at about as high of a volume as I would ordinarily listen (somewhere about 1.5/10) and then am using the upper end of the preamp volume range. Does this make sense? Is there a better way to do this?

Thank you for reading.
music_prof
music_prof OP
46 posts
 
I'm sorry--I'm adding the Creek preamp solely for the remote control. The B1 is indeed an integrated amp.

So the question, then, what is the best volume configuration. If the B1 is cranked full open, that would result in background noise to some degree.

I'm not sure about behavior of the so-called passive preamps; do they like operating at the higher volume level or no? Also, what does that mean for the signal that sends to the B1 amp?
glenfihi
525 posts
 
Integrated amps having no pre out/amp in jacks leaves your method as the only way to use your components as you wish. You will however have to play with the volume control on both the amp and the preamp levels to find the best medium of signal to noise.
How do you like your Dac Magic? I am considering it.
music_prof OP
46 posts
 
I've had mine for a couple of years now, so I don't know about current offerings. I absolutely love mine. I have an older CD player with a digital audio out, and the DacMagic has breathed new life into it. It goes without saying that using it with my computer for playing digital files makes all of the difference in the world.

I may need to purchase a USB-SPDIF converter to get the full benefit, but overall, I'm as happy as a clam.
stanwal's avatar
stanwal
3,147 posts
 
Creek also makes a remote volume control with no active circuitry. I have one of them as well as a 22 passive pre I use with my HT set up.
wolf_garcia
6,708 posts
 
I think the original DACmagic sounds amazing especially if you use the Pangea power supply with it. The original "magic" has a crappy USB system so if you're going to use that (I don't with mine) feature get the new "plus" version or one of the other 10,506 DACs out there with better USB features. The original "magics" are discontinued now so they're really inexpensive as NOS or even cheaper used, and still hold up.
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