DSD direct to power amp vs using a preamp?

Audio Components DACs
1

I just realized that I posted in wrong forum. Admin, please feel free to move it.

I would like to hear some comments about using the DSD as a preamp directly into a power amp. The output Z of the DSD is appropriately low with regard to the power amp input Z, so it should be fine electrically. I would be interested in comments comparing DSD direct to power amp & using a preamp with volume set to max & using DSD volume control.

Thanks,

Kev

Alternatively, I am currently using a Sonus Faber Musica integrated with the volume set to max & a DSD, using the DSD’s volume control. Any comments on this setup are appreciated.

P.S. Speakers are Sonus Faber Cremona.

1 Like
2

A search reveals these threads with lots of information, and there are more. . . .

http://www.psaudio.com/forum/directstream-all-about-it/preamplifier/

http://www.psaudio.com/forum/directstream-all-about-it/ds-direct-to-power-amp-vs-a-preamp-in-the-path/

http://www.psaudio.com/forum/directstream-all-about-it/preamp-vs-direct/

http://www.psaudio.com/forum/directstream-all-about-it/going-direct-vs-preamp/

3

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HHl8F9amyY4

4

I have been using the DS DAC directly into my First Watt amp with great results. But just recently I borrowed a Decware Zen triode preamp from a friend who travels a lot. I’m so happy he’ll be gone for three months. Plenty of time to order one, receive it, install it in my system. Wow!

5

Ron, glad you tried the Decware out! They’re very good preamps. I have one I’ll be putting up for sale soon if you’re interested. . . I upgraded from a CSP2+ with stepped attenuator, dual stereo outputs and Jupiter caps to a Decware ZTPRE.

6

Perhaps. Thanks for letting me know. What will you be replacing it with?

Ron

7

I replaced it this fall with a Decware ZTPRE, and using a ZBIT with two stereo ouputs to convert the balanced output to single-ended for my amps, one for speakers the ohter for headhones.