Preamplifier power supply


Hi folks, should a preamplifier have a BIG (that is: an overkill power supply) to sound dynamic and authoritative? I'm asking this because some experts would say "yes" while others would say "no". Recently a well known audio journalist (Anthony Cordesmann?) said that the preamplifier doesn't have to have a big power supply because it doesn't have to deliver lots of energy (in the form of current). A preamplifier can sound "dynamic" even with very modest power supply --> for example the built in preamplifier in the Benchmark DAC. But some manufacturers rely on a truly overkill power supply in their reference preamplifiers: MBL, First Sound Audio, BAT, VTL, LAMM, Mark Levinson. So who is right?

Chris
dazzdax

Showing 2 responses by ptss

Power supplies should be very robust. They should provide an unshakable foundation for absolute control of the signal to the amp, plus a high degree of resistance to perturbations created anywhere in the system, including from the amp(s).  No one can deny one has more control with an ‘oversize’ power supply. Just like driving a car with a standard transmission and more than adequate torque provides more refined control of the drive. 
Of course, all those who have never experienced the control power gives can never ‘get’ it. However, once experienced never forgotten. The unfortunate aspect of these forums is that most contributors simply don’t have access, have never experienced, reference grade components. So their comments are only correct and of value to those who have similar limited performance units. Nothing new here. (But today I find it annoying that shills and charletans make great “to do’s” about the utterly minutes differences between red black or blue wall plugs. As if they have power supplies and systems that can identify the virtually, no, non- existent differences. Crass purveyors and promoters of these ridiculous cash grabs should post some technical support for their fanciful, or should I say, Fantasy claims. Off topic, but, after all, this is just a forum :)