Preamp between EMM CDSD & DCC2 & Gamut amps

I use Audio Research Ref 3 with Gamut M250 mk3 monos with great results. They are great combination and I by the way used to have M200 mk3 monos before.

I run the CDSD withe DAC6e Signature Edition. I only use the DAC6e for 2 channel sound (even though I can run multichannel) however as I am a 2 channel purist. I did debate therefore to switch to the DCC2 as the 2 channel Switchman within is indeed outstanding. However the synergy to my system is the ARC Ref 3 which IMO is the finest preamp that I have ever owned. For this reason I have stayed put and would never switch. I have friends who use the ARC Ref 3 with their DCC2 as well as another friend who uses the DCC2 with a Lamm L2 Reference preamp. I tried the latter and even though I had anticipated that the Lamm L2 Reference would excel in my system because I use Lamm ML 2.1 monos, it was just no contest. The ARC Ref 3 was simply the better preamp

I run the D-200 stereo amp right now but will be getting the M200 monos in two days (hopefully). I have had the ARC Ref *2* pre' in my system and currently use the First Sound 4.0/Paramount Plus pre-amp.

The First Sound and the GamuT combo is just stunning. The FS pre's are a simple (but extensively executed) tubed design with everything completely manual with dual mono controls (and internals). If you can deal with that, I can't think of a better pre-amp with GamuT amps.

In my system, The Ref 2 had a wider sound stage, but the FS pre' had a lower noise floor and the music seemed to sound less “processed” and more immediate. The Ref 3 maybe an entirely different matter.

"The Ref 3 may be an entirely different matter."

It is. The Ref 3 is the finest preamp that I have ever owned