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  3. 148465-131101

DAC through a preamp or direct DAC to amplifier

Hi All,
Trying to get back into audiophile mode after a decade-plus long hiatus (due to two young kids). Wanting to transition from my CD transport/hundreds of CDs collection to digital files/streaming.  
I currently have a Pass Labs XA30.8 driving a pair of Martin Logan 11A series. I'd appreciate some opinions on whether I can invest in a DAC/preamp and link directly to the amplifier or is will there be significant improvement in sound to run the DAC through a preamp ( eg, the Pass XP-20 or XP-30) first? 
Thanks!

jesmithopt

Showing 1 response by erik_squires

erik_squires
16,653 posts
 
I ran my Mytek directly to the amps. It was a thin sheet of tissue paper better than going through a preamp.

In the end I switched to an integrated for a couple of reasons. Better amps, and nicer switching and volume control.
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