I all depends on your listening habits. I have been selling Wadia equipment for almost 10 years. The digital volume does affect the sound.
If you like to listen at low volume levels late at night, you will really miss the lost resolution of the digital volume control at lower settings. In this case you will be better served with a good preamp. (A top notch preamp will not get between you and the music. Look at Wyetech, First Sound, Lamm, Pass)
If you normally listen at levels that are at 85% or higher, then the digital volume control should not be a problem.
It is possible to adjust the voltage output of the Wadias in order that you will have your digital volume setting at 85% or higher for your preferred listening volume.
Hope this helps
If you like to listen at low volume levels late at night, you will really miss the lost resolution of the digital volume control at lower settings. In this case you will be better served with a good preamp. (A top notch preamp will not get between you and the music. Look at Wyetech, First Sound, Lamm, Pass)
If you normally listen at levels that are at 85% or higher, then the digital volume control should not be a problem.
It is possible to adjust the voltage output of the Wadias in order that you will have your digital volume setting at 85% or higher for your preferred listening volume.
Hope this helps