The best preamp is no preamp only until you hear high quality active preamp. The added resolution, transparency one may hear sans pre vs lower quality pre is generally initial novelty Many will discern analytical flavor over longer term, seek out pre to add, others may assume this as good as it gets, until they hear the magic that great active pre can bring to the table. I can easily convince myself my active pre is most important component in my system, it was game changer for me.
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?
Showing 2 responses by sns
@ozzy62 I agree a passive can be preferable to dac only setup. My active pre is in fact dual TVC. |