2. amps-preamps
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How much do I need to spend to get a preamp that sounds better than no preamp?

Hello all.
I'm using an Audible Illusions L1 preamp and I think my system sounds better when I remove it from the signal path. Oppo BD105 directly to SMC Audio DNA1 Gold power amp. I have read that there is level of quality you need to hit before there will be an improvement in sound. I can't seem to find what that level is. Any ideas?
Thanks in advance,
Ben
honashagen
georgehifi's avatar
georgehifi
10,312 posts
 
Like so many things he’s designed, it’s a quirky component with a narrow appeal.
It’s one of his pride and joys as he’s stated, and said it’s a wonder it hasn’t made him filthy rich, not that he’s not already.

Give him a break? You’re banging on as if this thing is audio divinity.
Your searching for anything to put it and him down, and nothing is correct, as I have to post what he says and has measured in published in specs, to counter now 3 times what **** you’ve said.
The reason you don't like it and keep putting *** on it, is because your F5 only has 15db of gain and you need a preamp or source with huge voltage gain, and this is not it. 

I WOULD RATHER BELIEVE HIM THAN YOU, AND THAT’S A FACT!

Cheers George
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jsm71
141 posts
 

To me the real benefit of a good active preamp is better dynamics, increased soundstage dimensions, better imaging, and (if tube based) having the ability to match tube choices that best mate with the speakers.

It was mentioned earlier in this thread, but +1 for LTA MZ2 preamp.  It does all of the above running dead quiet.  Its price and simple looks makes many think its a toy, but smile all the way to bank. 

mrdecibel
2,898 posts
 
" Like so many things he's designed, it's a quirky component with a  narrow appeal ". I honestly cannot believe this has been said. NP has shared with the diy community most of his designs, which were all labors of love, not to make a dime. Give me, and everyone else a break !
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