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Eliminated my preamp with amazing results

I pulled my preamp out completely. The result's were not subtle. 

For those who stream music only... I was going from my laptop... to my DAC...to my preamp...to my amp. My preamps ONLY function was volume control. Source control not needed.

I started using Audirvana recently which comes with it's own high quality 64 bit volume control that was far better than the potentiometer in my preamp. It dawned on me that I could control volume using Audirvana and plug my DAC directly into the amp and bypass the preamp altogether. (Roon and Jriver also have excellent volume controllers) Note: Audirvana has an app download on a tablet/phone so it acts like a remote control. I'm loving it!

This not only eliminated the preamps volume control but it took out ALL the electronics associated in a preamp including some cables. A FAR more direct route. However, you must use caution and make sure the volume is controlled properly in the software since the amp will be fed wide open volume.

Having experimented with 'passive' preamps in the past (McCormack TLC-1) I thought the sound would possibly lose dynamics and bass response would suffer. WRONG!

The results were...Shocking!! Immediately the extended depth of the image was noticeably deeper. Background darker. The highs are the best I've ever heard. Pristine. The bass was dynamic, tight and most of all 'textured' in a way I never heard before. As I stated earlier the results are NOT subtle! 

This is an experiment that took a few minutes to set up and yielded the best performance improvement of ANY other tweak I've ever tried. Not anything like using a passive preamp.

Equipment used...  Peachtree DAC-itx. 

                               Preamps...McCormack TLC-1 and Melos tube preamp.

                               Amp is McCormack DNA 0.5

Understand that different components will have different interactions with each other. Your results may vary. However, IF you don't like it, it takes just a few minutes to put the preamp back in the system. Nothing to lose and lot's to gain. After hearing this, I will NEVER go back to using a preamp. 

Good luck!

 

 

gdaddy1
mapman's avatar
mapman
21,856 posts
 

You never know what sounds best until you try different combos,  

Yes, be careful with the DSP software based volume control.  You might be able to set a safe limit depending on application software used.   I know you can do that several different ways with Roon.  
 

 

mosler666's avatar
mosler666
26 posts
 

Keeping your preamp is a great advise, but don’t let anyone tell you what you like. Your system, room acoustic, and personal taste matters the most. 

gdaddy1 OP
76 posts
 

@mitch2 

Also, I am curious, are you running the direct (unbuffered, i.e.,  purely passive, volume control only) outputs from the TLC-1 or going through the buffered outputs.  I believe the buffered outputs provide unity gain, which should not result in any loss of dynamics and/or bass response.

Using neither. I have tried both outputs. Buffered sounds better imo but currently the preamp is completely disconnected. Perhaps the elimination of the volume control and cables is having a positive effect.

@amtrod 

Resolution, sound stage, detail, and drive are all very accurate, and I find the center image a LOT stronger.

Agreed. Much more holographic. The bass is tight and textured and the highs are just wonderful. 'S' sounds are clean. Overall more engaging.

I'm not getting rid of my preamp just yet. However, the sound is getting better the more I listen. 

BTW... Audirvana has a 'master volume max limiter'. If by chance you accidentally hit the volume slide bar it won't go over a prescribed level. I think Roon has the same protective feature.

 

kraftwerkturbo
310 posts
 

So PC-software-DAC-amp brings up the question: what software/volume control to use to play PC files. I only experiemented to simply find the volume control/software that allows the highest output (amp input not sensitive enough). Didn't consider quality (and haven't concluded yet on easy of use regarding software choice). 

I assume, there are already lots of threads/posts on that subject. 

Not too long ago I had an OMG experience like the OP when playing the physical CD I had just ripped from my office laptop (with super long 25 ft USB C cable to Shiit DAC using same receiver and analog cable and switched between  (basic run of the mill) CD player and laptop. "NOT subtle". Never thought that the DAC even in a low budget system can make such a difference (obviously, the DAC in the CD player was horrible, and has since been upgraded). 

hilde45's avatar
hilde45
4,803 posts
 

OP, you didn't mention your speakers and their specs. That's important, I think.

I have tried the following alternatives to my tubed preamp, with both tube and class A amps:

  • eliminated the preamp -- result was harshness and lack of soundstage. The midrange lost all intimacy.
  • tried a very high quality passive preamp -- same as no preamp, though not as harsh. Lack of vitality and oomph with my 89db sensitivity speakers, which are not that hard to drive, overall.
  • tried a very quiet and neutral solid state preamp. Even tonality returned, most harshness disappeared, still not that much of a soundstage but there is one. There is vitality back in the presentation.

Of the three, the neutral solid state preamp was the best, but even it does not hold a candle to my deHavilland with a really great 6SN7 tube. It's just not close.

 

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