Analyzing DACs

In the publication’s DAC published tests the reviewers almost always tested the DAC connected directly to the amplifier. I think I understand why—nothing in the chain influencing the DAC sound. Is that the correct assumption?

No.  It’s very system dependent, but in my experience most systems benefit from a good preamp.  A lot of amps just need the added boost from a dedicated preamp to be driven optimally, so that will be of particular importance to pay attention to.  

Lot of hate here for Amir and ASR! Measurements do matter! More so than "golden ears" listening because human hearing is easily fooled! Trying to have a discussion here with subjectivists is like Galileo confronting the Inquisition! 

As an example in an A/B listening test of two preamps, amps, CD players ... the component that has an output level 0.2db higher will always sound "better" - more exciting, more lively, more engaging! All due to a simple level difference! Yet most audiophiles are ignorant of this psychoacoustic fact! 

@jasonbourne52 

Anyone who has done research on ASR will tell you the back story. I don't believe it it is personal for audio enthusiasts, but it is definitely personal for manufacturers of otherwise good audio gear. Him reviewing a product unfavorably can directly impact sales. That is bread and butter for the companies...their employees, electronics engineers, and founder etc. That hurts.

If you want to know all the research and info I have about ASR, send me a message.

This was a common way for sales men at audio stores to sell speakers! They made sure that speaker A was just a wee bit louder than speaker B. The customer always preferred A!