The Best Preamp is no Preamp?


So recently I've discovered the possibility of completely removing my preamp from my rig. I've never heard or considered this before, so much audio tradition... But in going directly from DAC to amplifier the sound quality is absolutely incredible, instantly had me grinning. Using music server to Chord M Scaler to Chord Qutest (cut out Marantz SR5015) to go directly to dual Emotiva XPA-DR1 monoblocks, to GR Research's 24 strand speaker wire to Magnepan 1.7i's.  Only difference is running volume on server vs Marantz remote, sound quality is the biggest jump I've ever heard with any gear.

Have you guys had experience cutting out the preamp from your rig? What's your thoughts?

128x128brandonhifi

If anyone reading this thread has a Lumin streamer in their system and has not tried the LEEDH volume control in the software, you should do so now. Your expensive preamp will find it's way on to Audiogon pretty quickly.

 

@ozzy62

 

While I do like the Leedh volume control on my Lumin T2, I still prefer my Tube Preamp, which adds more body and soul to the presentation.

 There is no substitute for listening.  Sometimes yes, sometimes no.  Depends on your equipment and the ease of controlling volume, plus whatever moderating effect (or exacerbating effect) you preamp adds.  They will add something.

I have a second system that sounds almost as good as my first and actuall use more (its in my den).  I have an old Pioneer (with transport) feeding a Bel Canto DAC, a Dynaco FM-3 tuner, and an Audionics preamp (handling my phono cartridge)  and each is blessed with individual volume controls.  So they each go into a Zektor solenoid operated switch which in turn feeds the power amp.  Through Thiel 2.2's the system sounds superb.  Meanwhile, my main system feeds through my Audio Research SP-6 which also sounds superb.  You've got to try it to make the decision.

In practice, long speaker cables often cause a loss of bass impact and intelligibility of vocals. This is easily measured and demonstrated.

I agree with the above statement!

My speaker cables are < 1 foot.