2. amps-preamps
  3. 1151261716

Do I even need or want a preamp?

For over 5 years my home audio system had been stable. I used a Wadia 6 direct into a Jeff Rowland Model 1 with Synergistic Research balanced interconnects, out to a pair of Aerial 10Ts (Synergistic Research cables). I knew that the speakers could use more power than the Roland could give, and that the Wadia 6 was now pretty outdated. I recently replaced the Wadia and the Rowland with an Accuphase DP-57 CD player and a used Levinson 336 amp, plus replaced the interconnects with a pair of Tara Labs Air2. The end result was that the Aerials came alive and I am hearing MUCH more detail without harshness.

I brought home a BAT preamp to try out and have to say that whatever differences (other than volume capability) seemed quite subtle. The bass might have been a bit tighter, but it seemed like some of the ambient information was lost. Considering the $6500 list price of the preamp, I am trying to figure out if a preamp is even helpful for my system. The Accuphase has its own internal volume control. Never having owned a preamp before, I don't know what I was expecting, but improvement in the sound did not seem to be present with the preamp. I am now leaning towards not adding a preamp to the system, but want to know if I'm simply uninformed about any benefits that one might do for my current system.

Thanks in advance for helping me learn!
brian_scherzer

Showing 3 responses by tubeears

tubeears
136 posts
 
You have just discribed what some 'philes may not now, or may not ever, experience. That is a "synergy" within your audio system. If you would like to add another source or would like to correct the details in the sonic field and/or add multiple function, then you need a pre-amp. Since your sound is about dead on, I would suggest a fairly cheap way of addressing the pre-mp issue. The use of a "high quality" Passive pre-amp may suit your needs. I use a McCormack TLC-1 that sells (usually) for under 500.00. It is transparent and detailed my system. There quite a few others, as well, that range from about 500.00 to 2000.00 new (and of course, less used). All of them (that I know of) have had good reviews.

Tubby
tubeears
136 posts
 
Yea, I agree with Electroid. Since you are not really adding another source, nor do you need to alter the signal, you may be better off just where you are (w/o a pre-amp... passive or not). I think that you may have found your "magic", or perhaps the need to visit a small audio salon in Mugwart. Talk to Dynacovia, the Gypsy lady (with the one softly glowing green eye).

Tubby.
tubeears
136 posts
 
DenF,

Nice system and nicely set up.
There seems to be a subtle consistancy to the thrust of this thread. Your mention of the Nu-Force amps (in your system) brings up a real point. I recently switched out my single ended tube amps for a solid state amp (this merry-go-round is perenial and has been for many years). I found with my SE Tube amps that they really enjoyed the quicker motion of a good tube pre-amp on the top end. The "alive" feeling that comes with SE amps, and that is also shared with the Nu-Force (and other amps of the breed.. ie: Bel Canto and Channel Islands) is nicley mated with a good tube input. Mine worked the best with a DJH Sig. (Cary/AES). My current Muse 160mk2 jst drips with life using a Passive.

btw: I see that you used a RL Pre/Emm 2B. Did you like it compared to others ?

Tubby
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