2. amps-preamps
  3. 1277652690

To Preamp Or Not To Preamp,That Is The Question

Hello
I'm curious this fine Sunday...

In theory, is it better to have a preamp between a CDP (or?) and the amp, or not ? Don't we try to eliminate as many circuits in the path as possible ? Why not eliminate the whole preamp right ?

I have an (2 really) Adcom GCD575, and, I can hook this directly to an amp, and use the Vol control (and Variable output) without a preamp at all...

It sounds really good to me. But, it may be the amp...
I haven't tested with multiple pre's between the same CDP and/or AMP.
mikey44

Showing 5 responses by mikey44

mikey44 OP
60 posts
 
I can agree with all that...I was told though, that a preamp makes the signal 'better'...not sure how it can do that.

The next big question would be, why don't high end CDP mfgs make CDPs with vol controls like the 575 ? I have heard some of the $$$$ ones do, but I'm talking Cambridge Audio, Rotel class CDPs...
mikey44 OP
60 posts
 
Seems as if only high end CDPs use vol control...and that adcom :)

Sorry if this has been hashed over and over...

I think we can finish with this thread...sorry for any time 'wasted'.
mikey44 OP
60 posts
 
all good advice, and I read them all...
The 840c does not have volume or variable output, else I would have jumped 'more vigorously' on the one local b4 it went overseas...still, a good cdp nonetheless, and, I have a few preamps anyways, maybe none highend, but, they all sound good, some better than others...thx for all the advice again...
mikey44 OP
60 posts
 
I've got the GCD575 about 18" away from the CJ MF2300 at the moment I think...Kimber Hero ICS...I have heard the same re digital vol controls...(no thx) but I'm pretty sure the 575 is analog anyways...

Another related question, what is the diff between this setup I have (vol ctrl on the CDP) and an AMP like a MC2105 with volume controls, with a CDP that has fixed outputs ?
mikey44 OP
60 posts
 
I think so too...I've heard some of Jimmy Buffet (on now) I've never heard b4...maybe it's the speakers too ? Infinity Crescendo 3009s...
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