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Do I even need a dedicated stereo preamp?

Hi everybody, I'm new here. Been a lurker for a long time. 

My current system is dual purpose for music and HT. However over time, I have added dedicated pieces of equipment for the music side. The only standalone piece I do not have is a preamp. Here is my current setup. 

AVR: Anthem MRX 540

AMP: Buckeye Purifi 1ET6525SA 2 channel   

STREAMER: Eversolo DMP-A6 Gen 2

DAC: Holo Audio Cyan 2

So far I am incredibly happy with my setup. However, a part of me wonders if I would gain any sonic benefit from a dedicated preamp.  

I want to just full send it, but money is tight and I want to make sure I would truly have something to gain. That's why I am here asking all of you guys. If money wasn't an issue, I've been looking into Benchmark LA4 or the Holo Audio Serene. Another issue for me is I have gotten so used to using the Anthem phone app to adjust the volume say if I'm in my kitchen. I know I would lose that functionality.  

So from those more experienced than me, will I hear a noticeable difference between the preamp in the Anthem AVR vs a dedicated preamp? 

Thanks

musical404
kennymacc
721 posts
 

@musical404  I think you already know the answer to your own question.  It’s just a matter of how willing you are to go ahead and expend the time, effort, and budget to improve the sound quality of your audio system.  If you’re content enough with what you already have, then just stay put, and enjoy.  Happy listening.

stephengordon
11 posts
 

Agree with kennymacc. Suggest you connect with a friend and see if you can borrow a half-decent pre-amp and just try it for an evening or longer.

I was excited to directly connect my Pegasus Musician DAC to my Shanling tube power monoblocs with gain control... fully anticipating the sonic advantages of a cleaner path. It just didn't sound as good as before and when I reverted to adding my ancient Rega Cursa 1 back in the chain the beautiful sound was restored. The difference in sound was very real (less 'life'?) and immediately noticeable - both ways. I really wasn't expecting that and chances are good you will see a positive difference too.

soix
11,230 posts
 

Whats the workaround? 

You can use any unused input on the stereo preamp for the preouts of the AVR.  The only thing you need to do is set a repeatable fixed volume level on the stereo preamp (say 9:00 or 12:00) and then set your multichannel speaker volume levels as usual.  When you wanna do HT you just choose that input on the stereo pre and turn its volume knob to the predetermined level and you’re good to go.  I did this for a year with no problem before I got a dedicated listening room. 

mofojo
2,404 posts
 

I’ve had good luck with class D amps and a tube preamp. I would think the schiit one would likely be an upgrade although I haven’t heard one. Just hearsay. 
 

For 500 ish bucks could try a used Jolida Fusion preamp if you can find one. I find Jolida stuff very underrated. Especially their tube DAC. I’m looking or another one. 

mofojo
2,404 posts
 

What Tektons did you buy? Don’t let the haters fool ya they are superb! I’m listening to my new Nebos now. Borderline epic! 

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