Is no preamp really better that a good preamp?

Yes Al, same, same, colourations, distortions, inaccuracy.

I use the word colourations when I'm being kind, after that when pi**'ed I'll start to use the proper term "distortions".

Cheers George

09-28-15: Almarg
Not to disagree with two of my favorite and most respected A'gon colleagues (Ralph & Jon), but if:

I too Al have respect for Ralph, and have praised his OTL amps many times in these forums and others when partnered with the "right speaker".
But I'm at a loss also in this thread, makes me think there is something else at play.

Cheers George

Thanks, Al, for your informative input as always.

What intrigues me is what I hear when I add a preamp in the chain(I started off direct from source to power amp).
I get more :-
1. dynamics
2. air around instruments
3. tonal body to instruments
4. solid bass foundation for orchestral works
5. soundstage depth, width and height
6. liquid flow of musical notes
7. musicality or PRAT

If all that is distortion, euphemisms aside, then so be it. Instruments just sound more natural and live than without the preamp.
When the supposedly more "accurate" signal sounds less natural and live, then things get very puzzling here. I can only trust my own ears, all electronics theory aside.

Cheers! J.

Answer for you again is here.
http://forum.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/fr.pl?ddgtl&1358613368&&&/Unsatisfied-with-Esoteric-K-01:-Alternat

Cheers George

Maybe you missed this :-
"Since I like the overall sound of the K-01 and my system, and do not wish to change any component for big financial reasons...."