I don't know very much about the Audioengine DAC. I'm not sure if the volume control is digital or analog. If it's analog, I doubt it would be better than a dedicated preamp or an integrated amp's volume control.
If it's digital, I wouldn't go straight into a power amp for any length of time. Digital volume control adjusts volume by altering the digital stream. It's only bit perfect when at full volume.
Most DACs I know of that have volume control have the option to bypass the volume control with a fixed or variable output setting.
If you're on a relatively tight budget and want the best sound for your main rig, you may want to get the best integrated amp you can afford. If its for background listening/second system/etc., the DAC into an amp may be good enough.
Just my opinions. Many will disagree. Other than for headphone use, I'm really can't see what the big deal is about DACs with preamps built it. Not to be confused with preamps that have a DAC card in them.
If it's digital, I wouldn't go straight into a power amp for any length of time. Digital volume control adjusts volume by altering the digital stream. It's only bit perfect when at full volume.
Most DACs I know of that have volume control have the option to bypass the volume control with a fixed or variable output setting.
If you're on a relatively tight budget and want the best sound for your main rig, you may want to get the best integrated amp you can afford. If its for background listening/second system/etc., the DAC into an amp may be good enough.
Just my opinions. Many will disagree. Other than for headphone use, I'm really can't see what the big deal is about DACs with preamps built it. Not to be confused with preamps that have a DAC card in them.