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CD player connected directly to Amplifier?

I've been noticing some CD players which can be connected directly to the amp; in many models, its the recommended way to play them. I've never done this, but it seems like a good way to go assuming one has a nice high-end cd player equipped for such a task. I see the obvious advantage of foregoing the expense of a separate preamp, especially in a combined HT/2 channel rig like my own. Is there an obvious advantage in performance? Anyone have any thoughts or experience with this method?
michaeljbrown
rjhalla
47 posts
 
Whenever you can remove a component from the signal path you are very likely improving the resultant sound. If adding a pre improves the sound then it is likely you prefer what is being added, but in real terms it also means you don't really like the source you purchased and you are changing the inherent character.

For those that have yet to hear a cd or sacd player sound better driving an amp directly....well I challenge to plug an MCD500 or MCD301 into your system and report back.
itsalldark
182 posts
 
I have a Audio Aero Capitole MK2 SE running direct with a Hovland Radia and it is magic. I have also run it through a few very expensive pre amps and this combo sounds much better when the pre amp is removed from the chain. IMHO the pre amp, power cord and interconnects ALL add some type of color or signature to the music. If your CDP has a nice pre amp section and your CDP is your only source why not try it and hear what you have been missing !!!!
almarg's avatar
almarg
8,673 posts
 
If the player was made to drive a power amp directly, not all are, then it should give the best sound in that mode. If it sounds better with a tube line stage then: 1, the output stage of the CD player was not of good quality or 2, you like the euphonic coloration the tubes add.

I'd add a third possibility, which is that the cd player may have high frequency or ultrasonic noise or other garbage on its outputs, which the power amp may be unhappy dealing with. The tube line stage may act as a bandwidth limiter that would improve the synergy between player and amp.

Regards,
-- Al
nasaman's avatar
nasaman
270 posts
 
I just tried it. Skipped the pre/pro and ran the IC from the source straight to the Amp and didn't like it. It sounded horrible actually.
eldartford
4,262 posts
 
Stanwal...You say...
"If the player was made to drive a power amp directly..."
How do you do that?

The output stage of any audio equipment like a cd player is designed to drive some input impedance of the next equipment. If you check I think you will find that the input impedance of most power amps is about the same as most preamps when CD input is selected.
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