2. amps-preamps
  3. 148665-78452

Need a preamp?

Hi all, 

I have an older Cary tube preamp and a Bob Latino ST70 with a built in attenuator driving a pair of Proac D30R. The combo seems to be a tad too warm so I tried using the amp without the preamp and it seems to sound better with a wider soundstage and more extended highs. I have a phono amp also so I can also listen to LPs and cds. Is there a reason I need a preamp other than the convenience of switching between the two?  Would a ss preamp or passive preamp add to the sound?  I presume any preamp would only degrade the quality and can't make it better than it is. 


jaferd

Showing 1 response by gregm

gregm
3,409 posts
 
We use a preamp in order to drive the amp adequately, as well as for attenuation & switching between sources. One of the problems that may arise without a pre is that the source device does not have a powerful enough output to drive the amp. But, from your own description
I tried using the amp without the preamp and it seems to sound better
it seems you do not have this problem. So, go pre-less, why not :)?
(BTW, have you tried running the phono into your amp, and can it drive the amp?)
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