Preamp or Not to Preamp?


Have very expensive equipment, over $50k invested. But found myself strictly listening to digital on the main system. In the past went direct out with Wadia(about 5 yrs ago before the 800 series), and never had enough explosion of soundstage. Tried passive preamp, and just too week for bass. Want to loosen up some money tied up in the system. Using a Reference 2 line stage by Audio Research. Have the AR 600s mono-blocks, and just go with another Wadia digital out?? I could be saving thousands if I dumped the preamp.
oldman

Showing 1 response by acuujim

My preference is no pre amp. The reall problem is the impedance match with your power amps. I've owned Wadia (DP-75) and I did not prefer it staraight in. It has trouble really driving some power amps and the digital based volume control will drop bits and cause the sound to roll off at both top and bottom extensions it is a much better player with a pre amp IMO. An analog volume control will give better results as long as the player used has the same ability to resolve detail that the Wadia does (no slouch) I prefer the Resolution Audio resolves like a Wadia and will drive most power amps with aplomb. The wadia sounded best to me with the ARC Ref One Pre Amp. Just my Take!!!