2. amps-preamps
  3. 1063393115

Preamps. Do we really need them?

I've been shopping for a new preamp lately, reading the forums, etc. If I have only one source, a DAC into which all my digital components feed into, do I really need a preamp and not just a volume control. After all, that's all I really need from a preamp. I've heard about passive rigs that just control volume, or attenuate it. I understand that you lose some volume if, the source's output isn't enough to drive the amp staight. I'm willing to make that sacrifice.
sjh32

Showing 2 responses by pmkalby

pmkalby
130 posts
 
Timo-

I think you are correct that many preamps add "body" to music, and I'll always have a preamp since I have a system with many sources of varying output levels.

BUT how would a preamp change PRAT? I tend to believe PRAT is source dependent exclusively. If the device spinning flat stuff, whether read by laser or by stylus delivers a signal with good PRAT to the preamp, where exactly in the circuitry does the preamp alter this and how?
pmkalby
130 posts
 
I'll have whatever Dave's having...
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