I tried direct with DAC to amps, using several DAC's touted as having good preamp volume control: PS Audio DS with bridge, Auralic G2 and now my Mola Mola Tambaqui. In each setting, the overall sound and especially soundstage was improved by inserting a preamp. First the PS Audio BHK Pre, then moving on to the Audionet Pre 1 G3, and finally my nirvana, the Audionet Pre G2. My measurement and science buddy points out that a preamp should not be able to add anything beneficial, just take things away. My ears tell me differently! I wonder of many people that recommend direct to amp have heard the difference a good preamp can make. And +1 to soix3 on synergy. While the Audionet Pre made a difference, mating it with the Audionet amps was amazing. So while looking for that quality preamp, and many good mentioned here, keep your eye on the same company's amps...as in one day 'I will add those also'!
Showing 4 responses by fastfreight
Some more really excellent posts about how a quality Pre amp with system synergy absolutely enhances an already fine rig. But to my point about not being able to site examples of science, I guess I meant that it is not easy 'to measure' the difference. Nay sayers seem to stick to this defense; 'if you can not measure it, I can not hear it' and 'bits are bits' etc. And, quite possibly, they can not hear it! To me, measurements are important, but hearing is believing. |
clearthinker129 posts Many posts saying hi-end preaamps improve sound. Many have posted how a quality preamp improved their systems. None will be able to tell you the science. To many of us, It just sounds better.. Bascom King, in his interview on inserting a preamp, states "the music is more compelling and real" Compelling and Real. I don't think we will ever measure these qualities, but I know I can hear it, or at least I am convinced I am, and convinced enough to own a nice pre amp. |