2. amps-preamps
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Using external DAC with preamp with built-in DAC

I need a new preamp. Most of the new preamps I've looked at do far have built-in DACs. My old one did not and I ran the digital outputs from my CD player into my DAC, then ran the outputs from my DAC into my preamp's CD input and it worked well. It seems like I should be able to do that with newer preamps with built-in DACs too. Will this still work? I like the sound of the DAC I'm using now.

 

timoteo666
thecarpathian's avatar
thecarpathian
5,038 posts
 

Yes, Barnabas. It will work.

zlone
825 posts
 

Yes, using the built in DAC is optional. 

voltaicq
14 posts
 

If you like the sound of the DAC you are using, you may be better off buying a preamplifier that focuses only on the analog circuit. You could bypass the other built in DAC but it seems counterintuitive and increases the risk of noise. 

soix
10,085 posts
 

Yeah, if you’re gonna use an external DAC you’re better off just getting an analog preamp without a DAC to avoid the added cost of something you likely won’t use and noise.  As others mentioned you can use a pre with an internal DAC no problem, but check to see that it doesn’t digitize all inputs because you don’t want that. 

ghdprentice
7,623 posts
 

Most high quality preamps do not have an internal DAC. I Don't recommend them, even if there is a slot. In general, you will get better sound by isolating functions. So, a preamp only being a preamp. Depending on your budget I'd looks a used Conrad Johnson, Audio Research or VAC preamps. These and other high end companies may outstanding preamps that will last for decades. 

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