To Preamp or not to Preamp, that is my q


To Preamp or not to Preamp, that is my question. I have a Denon DCD-1650AR which is connected directly to a Parasound HCA-2200II via Maple Audio Ambiance interconnects. Yeah, I know, low-end gear compared to most of you guys, but it sounds pretty good to me...

My intent was (and is) to keep it as simple as possible and assumed that the more direct the path and the fewer components, the more "honest" the sound reproduction would be. As I say, it does sound very good to me. But could it sound better with the addition of a quality preamp? One other related question: Adding a Preamp obviously require another set of interconnects. Do the ones between the preamp and amp need to be of the same quality as used between the player and the preamp?

In your responses, keep in mind my minimalist philosophy. I would consider adding a decent quality preamp, but I am not interested in upgrading the player, separating it to transport/DAC etc. Simple is better for me. I have no other sources, so do not need any switching capability.

Kind regards...
phydeaux

Showing 1 response by morasp10b3

I used to run a Linn Genki straight to a Bel Canto EVo which has an instrumentation amplifier (OP-Anp) at the input. It sounded good but could be bright and irritating. I just added a Source Components Harmonic Recover System between the two and the sound took on added details and dynamics. The brightness went away. My next step is to try the "Fixed outputs" of the Genki to the HRS to a Placette Passive to the EVo. Some of the things about passives I have read on this thread may not be true with the Placette because it has a ladder pot which has a fixed input "Resistance" at all volumes. Also, the ladder has Vishay resisors on both legs providing minimal distorion and a very easy load to drive. I'll report back on the sound.

My speakers are modified Newform Research R645
and cables are HT Magic Link One ICs and Analysis Plus Oval 9 speaker cables.