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Streamer/preamp question

I am finding conflicting answers to this question so I thought I’d throw it open to the forum.  The question is, with a streamer preamp combo—let’s say the Cambridge EXN100–when I bypass the preamp and go analog out to an integrated amp, am I simply bypassing the volume control or are there analog stage portions of the preamp that are also bypassed. I’d like to know this about the Edge NQ as well, but my question is really just generic.  

I currently run an 851N into an Atoll IN 300 and I have compared the two scenarios, but switching is cumbersome and not a true AB test.  Both ways sound wonderful to my ears, but I do believe I hear a slightly more narrow sound stage when using the Cambridge as a preamp and the Atoll simply as a power amp.  So am I hearing a degradation caused by the Cambridge volume control or is it because the much more modern Atoll has a better preamp?

tomaswv
retiredaudioguy
329 posts
 

@tomaswv I think you can solve your problem for about $40.

Rose 150b has USB inputs and you can get a USB CD drive from Staples (e.g.), https://www.staples.com/lg-gp60nb50-external-ultra-slim-portable-dvdrw-black-retail-pack-gp60nb50/product_IM15PP868  

There are even cheaper options from Walmart for about $20 - google "walmart external cd drive".

Look carefully at your Rose documentation but googling "can I attach a USB cd drive to a Rose 150b" suggests it can be done.  Pictures of the Rose unit show a "Play CD" icon on the front.  No guarantees of SQ but it is a ridiculously cheap and simple test.  The Rose will be buffering and reclocking the async data from the drive so SQ probably matches streaming.

I use that a drive like that for ripping CDs using my Eversolo T8 and it can also play CDs.

 

tomaswv OP
262 posts
 

Lanx0003, I agree about biased expectations. I’m very happy with my Atoll IN 300 (Evolution model) because of the rich midrange and precise imaging and overall weight. These are individual preferences— my hearing doesn’t go much above 13,000 hz so that contributes to my preferences as well.  I do have a son in law with golden ears and often use him to test my reactions.  Clearly he hears things I don’t but I am generally “directionally correct” in my observations.  I’m a big fan of Tarun too, by the way. I’d love for him to review the IN 300 Evolution as a follow up to his earlier review of the IN 300.  Thanks for your comments. 

mahler123
4,111 posts
 

I’ve tried using a few DACs as preamps and I always wind up preferring a pre amp back in my system 

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