I went pre amp less when I was breaking in new XOs on my MG 1.7i s so it could stream 24/7. DAC, ipad, and Qobuz have volume controls. It did sound quite good. Not sure if better or worse.
I agree that sometimes our ears can just get use to our systems with or without some changes.
Im hooked on my old Carver C4000 pre amp with it's many functions. I always liked pushing buttons and turning knobs, lol. Im always tweaking eq due to such a range of recordings. Some need highs attenuated or boosted. Same for lows. Has 40hz loudness boost, peak unlimiter, etc. My favorite feature is the classic Bob Carver Sonic Holography. It really opens up sound stage.