I would say that the preamp definitely matters, and I am in the "cables do matter" camp. I started with an MSB Discrete DAC and volume control. My dealer lent me an ARC LS28SE to try. I found it to be no different or extremely minimally better. Then I put in an ARC REF 6 with a Shunyata Sigma power cord. Big difference in SQ, IMHO. Then I replaced my Morrow Audio SP-7 speaker wire with Shunyata Sigma's. Again, a very noticeable improvement. Not night and day of course, but a definite audible improvement. So yes, based on my own experience, a good preamp can definitely make a good difference, and so can good speaker cables.
Will a high quality preamp really make a difference in sound?? Also speaker cable
Will a quality preamp make my system sound better? And speaker cable...seems like everything I read people are split on this subject. My local hifi store brought up a good point; they said that the only thing between your amp and your speakers are the cable. Very good point and I'm inclined to believe it. Don't want to spend a fortune but don't want cheap cable either. Thoughts/ recommendations? Thank you in advance.