2. amps-preamps
  3. 184068-180700

What should I do - PS Audio DAC with or without Preamp

Question for the insightful A-gon community. I have a Schiit Freya + preamp, but...just bought a PS Audio DirectStream Junior DAC w/ preamp capabilities. Given my modest set-up (I've listed my system), should I continue with the Freya+ or bypass it and use the DS Jr. as a preamp. Other than streaming my library and Qobuz with Roon, I only play CDs - if that matters.

drbb
drbb OP
17 posts
 

@fuzztone  Ultimately, sound better. Listening now through the preamp (Freya +) and it sounds pretty darn good. My big concern was that the PS Audio DAC is in a totally different "pay grade" than my preamp.

I'll just have to experiment at some point.

 

ghdprentice
6,423 posts
 

OP,

 

Yes you are correct. Tell us what you hear. My money is on keeping the preamp, so will be interested in hearing.

drbb OP
17 posts
 

Finally, gave it a test and using the preamp with tube stage was the clear winner.

jbuhl's avatar
jbuhl
900 posts
 

I have been through this several times testing my Wadia 321 DAC as a preamp as it is balanced as well as the power amp.  But my Mullard Rogue RP-1 only has single ended. Even with Balanced and some relatively nice XLR Audioquest cables the system always sounds a touch better (smoother) to my ears with my tubed pre in the mix.  

About once a year I switch back to the Wadia pre only to return to the Rogue.

 

 

drbb OP
17 posts
 

I guess, bottomline is that a good preamp is the way to go.

More to discover