Is no preamp really better that a good preamp?


Hi All, I have PS Audio gear, and both my DAC and my phono section have enough gain to run directly to the amp. Is this really the optimal arrangement, or might I actually get better sound by adding a good preamp, say a Cary or a Modwright tube unit, to the mix. Thanks in advance.
Ag insider logo xs@2xrustler

Showing 2 responses by plinko

Autoformers control the cable by optimizing the impedance relationship as one attenuates the signal. And most systems, even phono, don't need gain.

A fair amount of care must be used, however, in matching sources and amplifiers (the coupling capacitor mentioned above).
Rustler, awesome system. If you like clarity, looks like you have optimized things with your amp/speaker combination. I don't think you will have a problem with a passive with your sources and certainly not with an autoformer.

Vinnie Rossi makes the LIO products where you can get a linestage with autoformer (passive) and also a tube stage. Even better, you can switch the tube linestage out of the signal path so you can try passive only (autoformer). It looks like a great product to me. It uses a fantastic autoformer module made by Intact Audio (good explanation of how autoformers work at their website). I think it should work with your PS a audio components (the direct stream uses transformers at the output, which is terrific). And if it doesn't, you still have a tube linestage with superior volume control in the autoformer.

No affiliation with Vinnie (never used his products) but I myself am interested in this product as a linestage. I use Naim components and also Intact Audio's autoformers with a Berning amp.

I have found the autoformer to be superior to tube linestages I've owned. They don't lose dynamics or bass and provide superior tonal correctness. The cable paranoia is overblown and more than likely only an issue if you are running very long interconnects.

If you are seeking romance, then look for a tube linestage...I like preamps that use tubes like 6SN7 or older. They provide a "fat" sound in the right design.

Good luck!