2. amps-preamps
  3. 187886-136680

Eliminated my preamp with amazing results

I pulled my preamp out completely. The result's were not subtle. 

For those who stream music only... I was going from my laptop... to my DAC...to my preamp...to my amp. My preamps ONLY function was volume control. Source control not needed.

I started using Audirvana recently which comes with it's own high quality 64 bit volume control that was far better than the potentiometer in my preamp. It dawned on me that I could control volume using Audirvana and plug my DAC directly into the amp and bypass the preamp altogether. (Roon and Jriver also have excellent volume controllers) Note: Audirvana has an app download on a tablet/phone so it acts like a remote control. I'm loving it!

This not only eliminated the preamps volume control but it took out ALL the electronics associated in a preamp including some cables. A FAR more direct route. However, you must use caution and make sure the volume is controlled properly in the software since the amp will be fed wide open volume.

Having experimented with 'passive' preamps in the past (McCormack TLC-1) I thought the sound would possibly lose dynamics and bass response would suffer. WRONG!

The results were...Shocking!! Immediately the extended depth of the image was noticeably deeper. Background darker. The highs are the best I've ever heard. Pristine. The bass was dynamic, tight and most of all 'textured' in a way I never heard before. As I stated earlier the results are NOT subtle! 

This is an experiment that took a few minutes to set up and yielded the best performance improvement of ANY other tweak I've ever tried. Not anything like using a passive preamp.

Equipment used...  Peachtree DAC-itx. 

                               Preamps...McCormack TLC-1 and Melos tube preamp.

                               Amp is McCormack DNA 0.5

Understand that different components will have different interactions with each other. Your results may vary. However, IF you don't like it, it takes just a few minutes to put the preamp back in the system. Nothing to lose and lot's to gain. After hearing this, I will NEVER go back to using a preamp. 

Good luck!

 

 

gdaddy1
asvjerry's avatar
asvjerry
4,277 posts
 

Been 'no pre' for quite awhile now.....haven't missed it

lanx0003
663 posts
 

Almost every major audio manufacturer designs and manufactures preamps, and PS Audio is no exception. Even a preamp only serves basic functions such as volume control and impedance matching and has no synergetic effect, it has historically been a main component in manufacturing. Criticizing Paul or Arnie for advocating the belief in the synergetic effect to boost sales is both illogical and unethical.  Keep that kind of unhealthy criticism yourself, please.

ozzy62's avatar
ozzy62
2,840 posts
 

@lanx0003 

Keep that kind of unhealthy criticism yourself, please.

So what kind of criticism can we discuss here? Only the "healthy" kind?

I think @gdaddy1 was expressing his opinion regarding PS Audio, not fact. Is that not allowed now either?

lanx0003
663 posts
 

Engaging in a discussion about the use of preamps in audio systems and sharing personal experiences to support differing opinions is a healthy and constructive approach to exploring this contentious topic. Drawing from individual experiences adds depth and insight to the conversation, fostering a more comprehensive understanding of the subject matter.

However, questioning a professional's motivations by attributing their opinions solely to business incentives can be seen as insulting and antagonistic, especially if there's no factual basis supporting such claims. It's important to engage in discussions or critiques while maintaining a respectful tone, acknowledging the possibility of differing perspectives or motivations. 

mahgister's avatar
mahgister
12,585 posts
 

it is interesting to read opinions and experience of each others about such and such gear piece...Needed or not...

But there can be only  anecdotes here , because too many factors and specific needs and different gear levels experience are implied...

I dont need a preamplifier with my integrated TOP Sansui alpha for sure driving my headphones only now ...

But suppose i  want  to upgrade it with a TOP power amplifier because i had mew big speakers  , i will need one....Or suppose i decide to buy a TOP integrated superior to the Sansui alpha ? Now suppose i upgraded this integrated superior to my Sansui alpha with a power amplifier top in the world , i will need a TOP preamplifier  ( a tube Berning preamp ? )  ...

This had no ends, add each one of us system and needs and all acoustic, electrical and mechanical parameters at play...

 There is no rule here AT ALL ....

By the way as i said i bought a low cost tube preamplifier to add to my active speakers : total improvement and not small ...It is anecdotal as is anecdotal the possible improvement in some specific mechanical,electrical and acoustical embeddings workings system/house/room if we throw off the preamplifier ...some coupling are bad or useless  or simply not synergetical  etc ...

 

 

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