Preamplifier power supply


Hi folks, should a preamplifier have a BIG (that is: an overkill power supply) to sound dynamic and authoritative? I'm asking this because some experts would say "yes" while others would say "no". Recently a well known audio journalist (Anthony Cordesmann?) said that the preamplifier doesn't have to have a big power supply because it doesn't have to deliver lots of energy (in the form of current). A preamplifier can sound "dynamic" even with very modest power supply --> for example the built in preamplifier in the Benchmark DAC. But some manufacturers rely on a truly overkill power supply in their reference preamplifiers: MBL, First Sound Audio, BAT, VTL, LAMM, Mark Levinson. So who is right?

Chris
dazzdax

Showing 1 response by aball

Oversize is a relative term. If a preamp has a high-power amp's supply, then yes, based on power it would be overkill.

As an EE that specializes in power supply design, my personal opinion is that a large power supply is a good thing. The reason is that large transformers have a low internal impedance which allows them to pass current very quickly to the circuit. This speed and availability is what makes them better than a small transformer with thin wire.

Sometimes, sounding "dynamic" is due to a lack of bass. So yes, a small power supply can sound more "dynamic" than a large one - but that is simply because tonal balance is relative to itself and not because of power supply design. The two should not be confused.

Arthur