2. amps-preamps
  3. 186593-9734

DAC DIRECT IN TO AMPLIFIER OR TO PREAMPLIFIER

For the longest time, I believed that the best preamplifier is no preamplifier.  Eliminating a component from the audio chain would yield less distortion & greater purity.

Recently, I have had reason to re-think my logic on the matter - and I am (I think) changing my mind.  Better said, assuming that the preamplifier in the component you are using (in my case, a DAC) can produce 95% or greater quality sound compared to the preamplifier component, then no preamplifier is the best option.  The 5% represents the (estimated) loss of fidelity in adding another set of interconnects.

That said, most DACs do not have an outstanding preamplifier built in.  I think most have average passive attenuators, and the better DACs have active preamplifiers that are very good - but not as good as a quality preamplifier.

What are your thoughts?

 

 

paul_lindemann

Showing 2 responses by jrsyby

jrsyby
10 posts
 

My experience goes back so many years it might not be useful in discussing modern equipment. Many years ago I ran an old Phillips CD with variable output directly into my amp. I thought it sounded pretty good. Then purchased a Conrad Johnson PV9a preamp and added it to the system. It was a noticeable improvement to me. 

Separately, I found this Bascomb King interview on the subject interesting. 

https://youtu.be/HHl8F9amyY4?si=HhNsdbI1xXADABk9

jrsyby
10 posts
 

On the topic of tube hiss. I have all-tube cj gear: hiss evident at idle, although not loud enough to spoil my enjoyment of music. Replace factory-supplied tubes with some NOS Westinghouse and GE pre-amp and amp input tubes (not power output - couldn't afford that) from Vintage Tube Services. System now dead quiet at idle. Based on my experience, tube equipment can be quiet - all depends on the tubes, and the equipment of course.

More to discover