Will adding a preamp dramatically change my sound?

I have tried several CDP's direct to amps with various results. First was an Audio Aero Capitole direct to ML amp which was very good. I tried (at the same time) a Wadia direct and did not like this. At the time that I ran both of these units both via direct and via preamps (Cary and BAT), I like the AA best direct with the Levinson amps but not as much with my BAT VK 60 mono amps, where the AA improved going through the preamps (to the BAT amps). The Wadia improved with either amps going through preamps. But the wadia had digital volume control.

I now own a GNSC modded Resolution Audio Opus 21 which is capable of running direct as well, but I have not really given this unit much of an opportunity this way. I run it through a Calypso and it performs great. As an added bonus it has digital inputs.

If I were you, I would strongly recommend borrowing a decent to good preamp from a friend or dealer and trying the preamp route. In addition to giving you better overall performance, it may also help with your soundstage height issues and your Hawk speakers. The Wadia's sound stage improved significantly with a preamp in play. The AA was less noticeable in this regard (with the preamps I was running at the time).

Can any of you explain why an active preamp is to be preferred instead of passive preamp or no preamp at all? In my system an active preamp is better because I hear more bass slam, there is an "organic" quality to the music and midrange has more "bloom". These findings are quite similar to Sgunther's (see his post).

Chris

I have had it work both ways depending upon the exact components you are working with as usual.

Sometimes the Pre-Amp helps,sometimes it does not.
You just have to try and see.

Some Combinations are better than others and there are so many variables I can not predict the result.

On another note,I wonder if you are employing the FeedbAck Signal Sense Circuits in the Musician II ?

I have been experimenting with this and have yet to fail to be amazed with the improvement this has made.

At first I was under the impression that I needed special cables to get this to work but it turns out this is not really the case.

I would try this first if using a Spectron.

Ed

It depends entirely on the output capabilities of your source, and the sensitivity of your amp(s). If the source has the drive to achieve the SPLs you enjoy with your amp/speaker combo, you'll be happy. I thoroughly enjoyed the transparency I experienced with only a Placette Passive Linestage, and with MOST sources had all the dynamics, sound stage, extension, etc recorded on the disc. BUT: With those that were recorded at lower levels(some of my favorites) there was inadequate signal. Now I'm using a TacT pre that gives me just enough gain to overcome the differences in my discs, is still very transparent, and gives me a bunch of flexibility with regards to time domain and room tuning. Then again- There are a lot of people that enjoy the various things that pre-amps add to(or take away from) the music. Some mistake grain for detail, microphonics for warmth, etc. Then it becomes a matter of personal tastes as to what is "right" for them.

Yes, and it could be for the worse. Try before you buy. Sometimes less is more.

ET