Dumb question......why do you need a preamp?

The term "preamp" implies, like may other things, something that is needed prior to the main event.  In this particular case "amplification."

Preamble: something you do before you amble

Prenuptial: something that takes place before you nupt

Premature: your life as a child growing up. Waiting patiently for the "mature" part to arrive in my world.

I tried to get away without a preamp but it just didn't work for me. The fewer components you can get away with, the better I believe. My system always sounded better with a preamp. I'm using a BHK pre that I will own for the foreseeable future. I consider it end game. (for myself anyway). Good luck OP. Do what makes you happy. Joe 

You'd think after 50 years I would know this, but I don't. Aren't today's integrated enough?

OP ... yes!

Some integrated today are more than enough ,if that what you need. Many yrs ago Dan Modwright modified my Sony sacd player 9000 es with a very good volume control . I used it direct to amp.I like the sound better. Before I heard a Backert preamp ? I never care for preamp, Now I have 5 preamp 4 tubes , one solid state Krell Krc3.

My MSB Discrete DAC has a volume control and plenty of output. Almost 4v at 300 Ohms and close to 2v at 150 Ohms. I use predicted 150 Ohm 2v setting and without a preamp. I owned a Benchmark HP4 preamp and I found that the sound was better without it. So I sold it. The MSB has a high quality volume control and I only have a digital source.