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Anybody tried EMM DCC2 into preamp?

I use an Esoteric DV-50 as CDP. I love the Atma-Sphere MP-1/MA 2.2 (mod) combination/synergy and would hate to give up the MP-1, but want the best possible digital source, which is clearly the EMM DCC2 (+ transport).
I know that this unit functions as a preamp too and could make my MP-1 redundant. Has anyone used the DCC2 with a high quality preamp, eg Atma-Sphere, Aesthetix, etc instead of just straight into the amp, which is obviously more logical? Is there any chance that the synergy of the Atma-Sphere preamp/amp will even improve the sound of the DCC2 (+ EMM transport)? Anybody done that yet?
springbok10
gladstone
296 posts
 
I'm not sure that's true. I'll have to do further listening, but there does seem to be more detail using a tubed preamp, which was counter to what I expected. I, too, assumed that an extra interconnect and preamp would degrade, not improve, the signal, which is why I didn't even bother trying a tubed preamp for about 9 months. When I did, I was shocked at the improvement. We're not talking about small changes. There's a majestic quality with the tubes that's absent otherwise.
thom_y
195 posts
 
Gladstone,

Upsetting to hear your observations are similar to Sprinkbok. Certainly, Springbok's equipment is up for this challenge and it is upsetting to hear his A-S monsters still sound better with the tubed pre. Just curious what your associated equipment is to make this observation.

I am also curious have similar observations been made with the Switchman ?

Given these similar observations, it will be interesting to see who is the first to look into modifying the DCC2 with tubes (if possible).
gladstone
296 posts
 
Magnepan 20.1, Omega mono blocs, VPI HR-X, Meitner CDSD.
springbok10 OP
711 posts
 
Gladstone, glad to hear you share my ears:)
Thom_y, your post is very perceptive. I believe that the DCC2 is in serious need of tubes. I'm sure one of the modders will have a go if he can get his mitts on one! But who wants to donate his DCC2? Not I!! And I'm sure Mr Meitner isn't about to enter the tube domain............If I was a modder, I'd buy a DCC2 and do it and have the best DAC ever. But then, I don't know what that would entail. Maybe one of the techies in A'gon can tell us?
gladstone
296 posts
 
Much of the magic is in the power supplies as well... And it may not just be tubed preamps, I hear there's a little darting Dartzeel on the way as well...
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