2. amps-preamps
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Need A Quick Education

I am narrowing down a short-list of preamplifiers that have the features I want. Unable to audition them, I wanted to know what a good "Signal to Noise" ratio is. I am seeing 90dB through up to 102dB. Is a higher number here better? I know that with CD and SACD/DVDA players a higher S/N ration is a good thing, is it the same with preamps? If I run an SACD player through a preamp with a 90dB (or lower), what am I losing? BTW: all the pre's I am looking at are SS and the one in the lead has a s/n of 90dB. Thanks in advance!!
treyhoss
treyhoss OP
287 posts
 
I'd love to do that but I don't have a dealer in my area!
czbbcl's avatar
czbbcl
1,752 posts
 
Treyhoss

You might want to ask a couple of dealers that advertise here on AG if they would grant you an in home audition. I have seen a couple advertise that they would do this and besides it never hurts to ask. I agree with the other posters that you should never buy on specs.

Chuck
mwilson
430 posts
 
What about those of us with horns? You'd better pay SOME attention to the S/N ratio, because you'll hear the N quite a bit if you don't. Just hope the manufacturer posts accurate/honest measurements. Wait... did someone say you just have to listen?

Trey is right to ask - I have a pre/pro that has a S/N ratio that is "better than 90db A weighted", and at idle it sounds a little like listening to the inside of a seashell with my Klipsch la Scalas.
marakanetz's avatar
marakanetz
5,473 posts
 
Mwilson,
S/N in this case is more for the amplifier domain than in preamp and low-powered amps for horns usually have S/N much higher than 90dB.
treyhoss OP
287 posts
 
Maybe I should back up a bit and restate what I am asking. I am trying to understand SNR as it applies to a preamp. What does it mean? How important is it? Is there a good "benchmark" number to look for on a SS pre. Is >100dB better than 90dB? If yes/no, why? Believe me, I will always try to listen to the equipment first, when possible and I have always trusted my ears when it comes to equipment purchases. I put "little" stock into stats as well but they can at least point you in a certain direction when comparison with your senses is not possible.
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