Do I really need a preamp?

I run my cd player with variable output directly into my SET amp. I love the sound, am very happy, not tempted to put a pre-amp in the path. As the previous poster noted, if you do that and have other sources, you gotta keep switching the interconnects (or else just buy a rotary switchbox). I am really cheap so I just switch the cables!!

Absolutely, preamps are Essential, Hearts of a Fine system Try RSA, Ray Samuels Audio Tube Line Stage PreAmp, Simply Out of this World,
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I run my Resolution Audio (variable) outputs directly into
my amp. This works very well. (my Sony ES also does the trick) If you want to add another layer of grunge buy a preamp (with it you will also need anothe pair of cables)
In the end you should trust you ears, as I do mine.

I don't recommend using the variable output of a CD player. I tried this with my $2,000 Sony ES player. The sound did not congeal well, the image being tall & illdefined & the sound somewhat transistory & harsh. When I connect the fixed outputs through my tube preamp, the sound is much more coherent, clean & focused. Using a passive control unit might be a different story, although I wonder if some of the same problems may still be present. A number of authorities believe running passive creates other problems.

Try the Mod Squad Line Drive. It's called a passive preamp but it's really a quality-switching device. It gives all the versatility of a preamp but without the gain/color. They can be found on the used market for $100. to $150.