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 bishop148

 I have an old Phase Linear 400 power amp. I can and have ran that directly from my CD player to my amp bypassing the pre-amp. Of course having volume controls on your power amp is a must.

A pre-amp gives tone controls and a master on/off switch, remote usability but does not amplify or change the signal, a passive component really.