2. digital
  3. 180443-147162

To preamp or not to preamp. That is the question.

I have recently set up a second system from some previously owned components which I though I would use for occasional listening as I have a better rig in a dedicated music room. Yet I find I'm listening to it more than expected and want to optimize it.

I use only a single source, a Bluesound Node 2i, feeding directly into a Forte 4a Class A power amp and some Totem Model one signatures speakers. No preamp! Controlling the volume with the BlueOS app, the system plays loud enough for my listening needs but I know the output of the Node is on the low side for the power amp. I'm not looking to upgrade the current speakers, amp or streamer. Other than having more gain, would adding an active preamp bring anything to the table other than more expense and additional "stuff" in the audio chain. What has been the experience of other members been who have gone this route?

128x128alvinnir2

Showing 2 responses by ghdprentice

ghdprentice
6,435 posts
 

@charles1dad

 

+1

 

I would be careful not to underfund a preamp. I would recommend doubling your budget, and buy used. The preamp can really enhance your system. But a real budget one will not. I recommend a used tubed preamp not more than ten to fifteen years old.

ghdprentice
6,435 posts
 

One way of looking at this, since it is your second system is that you have an opportunity to do something fun, as opposed to good enough.

Ever fascinated with the idea of a real warm and romantic sound? From your other post… this sounds like it could be a winner. Or a very polite detailed sound… I couldn’t find your components. But this is a great opportunity to explore a different sounding system.

I had always wanted to try “the 300B” sound… so a few years ago I upgraded my headphone system to a high end 300B sound. I was so overwhelmed by the beautiful sound it caused me to completely revamp my main system away from highly detailed / slam oriented system to a much warmer more musical system. This was the best and largest shift my system took in fifty years.

More to discover