2. amps-preamps
  3. 1139354443

Bypass preamp, better sound, yet fatiguing?

Does anybody know a good reason why running from the CD player direct into the amp will produce a better, detailed sound (e.g., piano sounds more real, instruments are better separated), but on the other hand, after a while, after an hour or so, the sound becomes fatiguing?

Is there any thing as too much detail?

System consists of Levinson 390s, 380s, VTL MB-450, B&W 802n. Interconnects are Transparent super. Speaker cable is Transparent super bi-cable.

Are the cables not up to it? Room acoustics? B&W tweeter to bright? I don't experience any fatigue, if I listen through the preamp, but the sound is somewhat duller (but better rythmically) than if I go direct. Any suggestions are welcome.
hgabert

Showing 3 responses by jsujo

jsujo
348 posts
 
Isnt there an issue of impedance compatability? the preamps give you more flexibility in that regard.

I had run some McIntosh tube amps direct and didnt like it, as well as an Allen amp to the same result. It just seems like the amp was too loud too soon. So maybe gain matching is an issue also?

And this was running a McIntosh Mc71 tube tuner,,,so no digital nasties.
jsujo
348 posts
 
I tried to bypass the pre with SS Mc250 and with a SS CDP, didnt work well..The only time i managed to get great sound that way, was a Mr-71 tuner and MC-40's...that was a good combo.
jsujo
348 posts
 
I thought that there are thousands of people using tube preamps and SS amps...
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