amp or DAC? It depends on the system and other variables. In one system the the DAC is the weak link, it will have a better impact. Or you may drop a component into a system and it will have great synergy with what you have so it will have a greater impact. So to answer your question is, it depends. I'm not a source first guy, so in my experience with my system, amps have had a greater impact. Others will have a different experience and tell you the source or DAC will be the better move.
What makes a bigger change, dac or preamp?
Hello everyone,
I would first like to start by thanking everyone for the help and apologize for exhausting this question but I I was hoping everyone can educate a slightly confused hobbyist. Recently brought Quad 12l active which is being feed by Squeezebox Touch. I have being using the Touch as a preamp which is not the ideal setup.
Now what is honestly confusing me is the entire upgrade path. On one end, I have people telling me the next step should be a DAC to add to the Touch. On another end, I have people telling that the very first thing I have to do is get the volume control away from the touch and by a good preamp or just straight volume control unit like the Warpspeed optocoupler.
Most agree that separates is the best way to spend my money.
MY question to everyone, which will affect the sound the best period. What makes a better upgrade path?
I would first like to start by thanking everyone for the help and apologize for exhausting this question but I I was hoping everyone can educate a slightly confused hobbyist. Recently brought Quad 12l active which is being feed by Squeezebox Touch. I have being using the Touch as a preamp which is not the ideal setup.
Now what is honestly confusing me is the entire upgrade path. On one end, I have people telling me the next step should be a DAC to add to the Touch. On another end, I have people telling that the very first thing I have to do is get the volume control away from the touch and by a good preamp or just straight volume control unit like the Warpspeed optocoupler.
Most agree that separates is the best way to spend my money.
MY question to everyone, which will affect the sound the best period. What makes a better upgrade path?