2. amps-preamps
  3. 174980-170745

The Best Preamp is no Preamp?

So recently I've discovered the possibility of completely removing my preamp from my rig. I've never heard or considered this before, so much audio tradition... But in going directly from DAC to amplifier the sound quality is absolutely incredible, instantly had me grinning. Using music server to Chord M Scaler to Chord Qutest (cut out Marantz SR5015) to go directly to dual Emotiva XPA-DR1 monoblocks, to GR Research's 24 strand speaker wire to Magnepan 1.7i's.  Only difference is running volume on server vs Marantz remote, sound quality is the biggest jump I've ever heard with any gear.

Have you guys had experience cutting out the preamp from your rig? What's your thoughts?

brandonhifi

Showing 1 response by atlvalet

atlvalet
58 posts
 

Granted my sample size is small at only one, but I heard people waxing poetic about no preamp. So I ran my Audiolab 8300CDQ directly to my Aragon Palladium 2 monoblocks. It seemed good. Until I hooked a preamp back up. Holy moley, a ton of detail, separation and soundstage came back. The 8300 has a "class A" preamp section in it with a digital volume control. It could not compete with a preamp.

It was enough of a difference, that I don't plan on not using a preamp again.

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