You only need a (good) preamp if you want to hear all of the beauty the machine can unleash. If you don't want all of the magical midrange, go w/o the preamp.
Esoteric need a pre-amp?
My dealer says the Esoteric K-01X needs a pre-amp. I have also heard the new K-01 players will power amps directly, just as the Wadias are known for. Can someone clarify this? Thanks.