How much do I need to spend to get a preamp that sounds better than no preamp?


Hello all.
I'm using an Audible Illusions L1 preamp and I think my system sounds better when I remove it from the signal path. Oppo BD105 directly to SMC Audio DNA1 Gold power amp. I have read that there is level of quality you need to hit before there will be an improvement in sound. I can't seem to find what that level is. Any ideas?
Thanks in advance,
Ben
honashagen
Well said Erik, and probably what many others are thinking and don't want to admit.
John
Um, this is very very much a matter of personal taste. I don't think no preamp is necessarily the golden standard. I buy for pleasure, not specs or measurements.

Sometimes a juicy, colorful preamp can be fun as hell. :) 

Best,


E
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