@sls883 Bricasti M1 SE II
Tube Amp for Coda 8 Part 2
Thank you to all for your suggestions in my recent thread.
I’d like to t take this query one step further. I have a DAC that has pre-amp capabilities. It’s to my understanding that having a pre-amp (analogue) will sound better than digital attenuation. The DAC as a pre-amp sounds pretty darn good, so I am wondering, do I need such an elaborate pre-amp (as a volume control) or should I just stick with the DAC and save some coin?
Thanks!
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@sls883 yes, and it sounds pretty good, but most say that using a pre-amp as a volume control should sound better. I want to try, but I don't want to break the bank to do so. Thanks, |
@kds my immediate thought was that a tube preamp would sound better, but you have a really nice dac, so I don't know. I'm using a Linear Tube Audio MicroZOTL preamp (level 2) with a Coda 8 amp. It's much better than using my dac as a volume control, but your dac is much higher end than mine. If you can purchase a preamp with a return policy, I think I'd give it a try. |
The answer is, ‘it depends’. I could not find too much on the implementation of the M1 digital volume control, but typically there is some risk of signal loss especially at lower volumes. Given the quality of your gear, it may take a bit of coin to find the answer and determine if it is worth it. My previous amp was a Coda #8 and I tried at least five different preamps with it, each one was different. If you are even thinking of it, I would recommend you try one and see for yourself. It is part of the fun. Be aware that the right cables will make a big difference as you add component to the chain. |
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