Vali 2 ++ as a preamp?


Let me start by saying I am new to the hobby and welcome any constructive criticism/advice. I am looking into buying a Wiim Ultra to add the streaming capability to my current system: Wharfdale Lintons and a Leak Stereo 230 (or rather replace my current streaming setup, PS5 or TV, with Firestick). I have seen and read several reviews on the Wiim and think it is the best choice for me at this point and with my budget. My question is, has anyone used a Schiit Vail 2 ++ or something similar as a preamp to improve or warm the sound of the Wiim, or would adding something else into the chain invite noise and more issues? As a follow-up question, I have thought about adding one of the small Schiit DACs to the mix, as several reviewers said bypassing the Wiim's DAC improved the sound as well. Does this seem like a good idea, and if so, is one of the Schiit DACs (Modi or Modius) going to make a marked difference over the other? Also, please tell me if this makes no sense at all or if something else might be a better solution/option…

nukem11b

@russ69 thank you for the feed back. I will look at the Cambridge streamers.

 

@mesch keeping it simple and using what I have is wise advice. I feel kinda dumb like that’s an obvious answer but thank you for pointing it out… my wallet will thank you too 😁

I would try the Wiim streamer directly into the analog input and also with bypassing the Wiim DAC using the Leak 230's DAC and see which is preferred prior to adding other components into your system.

I used the Vali as a preamp for a short time. I have a lot of good preamps but the Vali is not one of them. I have a little micro preamp that I bought long ago, and it is fabulous. I was hoping I could capture lightning again. No luck. I also have a Kara but no luck there either. The cheapest preamp I have, and use is the Quicksilver. It sounds like a Cambridge streamer would work for you, I’ve seen them around 400 bucks.