A preamp that has a built-in DAC will have a digital input in addition to analog inputs, and it may look like a phono plug input.
db
db
Pre-Amp vs Processor
I have a Rotel 1066 surround sound processor with digital inputs and really enjoy the sound. It is my first and only hi-fi set. I am considering getting a 2 channel set up for another room. But I noticed the rotel pre-amps look like they only have phono plug inputs. Isn't it better to have the pre- do the decoding? Thanks in advance.