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 2 responses by soix

soix
10,243 posts
 

I just re-read the post and realized the OP was using a damn AVR as a preamp.  And not just any AVR, but a Marantz AVR which, IME is one of the most veiled and colored AVRs out there.  So no wonder when the OP heard the detail and transparency of going direct to the amp he found it revelatory.  My advice would be to demo some good stereo preamps and see if they improve things further — my experience is likely they will.  Also, at some point gotta upgrade from those Emotiva  amps, which aren’t worthy of a good stereo pre IMHO.  My $0.02 FWIW. 

soix
10,243 posts
 

this is a case where specifics drive the outcome, generalities are fun coffee table chatter, but are inconsequential

Bingo!  This is totally system and listener dependent.  First, and most important question — what preamp were you using before?  My guess, if you actually demo a good preamp your song will change.  I’ve found the preamp to be, other then speakers and my room, to be the most consequential component in my system.  Also, your amps are meh so that’s something else to look at.  Ignore the preamp at your peril. 

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