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The Best Preamp is no Preamp?

So recently I've discovered the possibility of completely removing my preamp from my rig. I've never heard or considered this before, so much audio tradition... But in going directly from DAC to amplifier the sound quality is absolutely incredible, instantly had me grinning. Using music server to Chord M Scaler to Chord Qutest (cut out Marantz SR5015) to go directly to dual Emotiva XPA-DR1 monoblocks, to GR Research's 24 strand speaker wire to Magnepan 1.7i's.  Only difference is running volume on server vs Marantz remote, sound quality is the biggest jump I've ever heard with any gear.

Have you guys had experience cutting out the preamp from your rig? What's your thoughts?

brandonhifi
phantom_av's avatar
phantom_av
329 posts
 

Then the answer is, what ever works for you. No final concreate answer, many variables that will determine many diffrent ways.

As to me, Pre-amp is very very important, but of course you need a very good pre-amp otherwise possible answer would be to avoid it and go direct to DAC.

sworksone
36 posts
 

I had my Benchmark LA4 out of commission for a couple of weeks and was using a Denon receiver to fill the gap.  Even in pure direct mode the sound quality was significantly worse.  As per an earlier poster, I’m not surprised you found an improvement removing the Marantz from the chain.   

oldschool1948's avatar
oldschool1948
510 posts
 

My system sounds much better with a pre amp in the mix.  I have a PS Audio BHK pre amp, PS Audio DSD Sr. DAC (which has a volume control), and PS Audio BHK250 power amp pushing Tannoy DC8Ti speakers.  About a year ago, I sent the BHK pre in for repair and went straight from the DAC to the BHK250.  My system sounded terrible by comparison. 

I bought a used PS Audio Gain Cell DAC and used it as my preamp until the BHK pre came back.  The Gain Cell DAC sounded fair, but no where near as good as the BHK pre.  

jbhiller's avatar
jbhiller
1,458 posts
 

this is a case where specifics drive the outcome, generalities are fun coffee table chatter, but are inconsequential

I think this is gospel.  It all depends. But, as so many above say, typically a great preamp is better than no preamp.  I'm glad this is working for you though. Don't forget about how lucky you are to have stumbled on your no-preamp-situation when you make your next move....I. mean, if you make your next move. :). 

stevehardy1
127 posts
 

My system sounds much better with a pre amp in the mix. I have a PS Audio BHK pre amp, PS Audio DSD Sr. DAC (which has a volume control), and PS Audio BHK250 power amp pushing Tannoy DC8Ti speakers. About a year ago, I sent the BHK pre in for repair and went straight from the DAC to the BHK250. My system sounded terrible by comparison.

I agree 100%. I have the exact DAC, pre & amp as you, driving Maggie 1.7is with 2 REL subs & the BHK pre transformed the sound. It sounded great with out the pre, but putting that BHK in the chain made it sound amazing.

 

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