I'm running a somewhat parallel thread in this forum under another heading, but the same issue has now arisen. Am I wrong in my assumption that the pre-outs will contain the rcvr's processed signal? If I run that into another preamp, am I not getting essentially a "double processed" signal ultimately going to amp? Or does the last preamp clean up and control the ultimate signal to the amp? Dave: don't lose sight of my 2-3k budget. Assuming what I asked above is not a problem, is it worth splitting the budget to get lesser preamp and amp combo, or use it all on a really good amp now and maybe next year get a good preamp?
Experts: Why is preamp important?
I know that's a naive question, but the real question is how important a preamp upgrade is relative to the rest of a system. I've heard the statement "a preamp owns the signal", but I don't know what that really means in terms of ultimate sound. For example, is preamp to amp like a transport to a dac, whereby most people would contend that a great dac with a cheap transport can still sound great? I've upgraded my front speakers in a HT system to B&W n803s/HTM1. I currently use a 130wpc Pioneer VSX49tx HT receiver. Obviously I can get better sound from better amplification, and I'm considering a separate integrated amp for the fronts. But the question is can I still make a great improvement using the pioneer's pre-outs to a much better amplifier? Where should I really spend my money? Thanks much. This forum has been tremendously helpful, and I'm sure this thread will do the same.
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- 25 posts total
- 25 posts total