There are a couple of reasons to use a preamp in a digital system. One is if you have multiple sources. Another is that some people experience improved sound when using a preamp between their DAC and the amplifier. Finally, some people like their speakers and using digital volume control can result in full volume “mistakes” that can cause speakers to be damaged.
I use a tube-based preamp (actually a line stage) and feel it sounds better than my DAC straight to the amp with digital volume control. I am not sure why but I suspect the line stage matches up better electrically to the tube-based amp than the DAC does.
Hi Jussi,
Dumb question…,I have a Dac200 but recently switched from my Hegel h590 integrated to T+A m200 monoblocks.
I’m using the DAC 200 as a preamp too and currently managing volume through the Dac. What’s the best volume control to use with HQP?
Best;
Suneel
T+A DAC200 has a great analog preamp with relay based volume control. That’s the best way to control volume in your setup. From HQP settings, just check the new fixed volume setting which was recently introduced. This way the HQP volume level never goes above ~ -3dB (or -6dB if the box is greyed).
