[ajzepp]

If my goal is the most significant improvement in 2-channel music, would I be more pleased by adding an Ultra DAC and running it through the analog bypass of my Outlaw 950 pre/pro, or using the analog outs of my Denon 2900 and running it to an Ultra Hybrid Preamp?

I want to eventually have both, but I'll probably start with one or the other. My current equipment list is as follows:

DeVore Super 8s
Butler 5150
Denon 2900
Outlaw 950

Thanks!

[miklorsmith]

Based on what I've heard that the Denon is an average audio player, I'd go with the DAC first.  I'm sure it will be perfectly OK as a transport.

[Zheeeem]

Get the Ultra DAC.  Huge improvement!!!

[ajzepp]

Thanks, guys....I'm glad the opinions are in favor of the DAC, cause for some reason I'm really excited about that product     I've been lusting after one for a while now, and I'm ALMOST ready for it to be next in line....I can't wait

[zybar]

I disagree and would change the preamp first.

I had the Outlaw 950 and while it was competitive as a processor (in its day), it was only so-so as a 2 channel preamp.

What's the point of having a better digital front end, if your preamp is the weak link in the chain?

George

[miklorsmith]

Would the preamp circuitry be engaged if running through a bypass loop?

[zybar]

Would the preamp circuitry be engaged if running through a bypass loop?

Running thorugh the analog bypass means that it is basically acting as a traditional preamp and not adding any processing.

George

[ajzepp]

Would the preamp circuitry be engaged if running through a bypass loop?

Running thorugh the analog bypass means that it is basically acting as a traditional preamp and not adding any processing.

George

Wouldn't that be the way to go if I had an excellent source such as the Ultra DAC? I'm not keepign the OUtlaw....it'll eventually be relegated to HT duty only. I'm just looking to make the biggest impact I can initially until I can get the second piece of gear.

[miklorsmith]

When I had my Modwright pre, I thought the bypass loop was essentially a shortcut around the volume control and output/gain stage.  The volume control definitely didn't work.

Maybe the Outlaw is different.

[zybar]

Would the preamp circuitry be engaged if running through a bypass loop?

Running thorugh the analog bypass means that it is basically acting as a traditional preamp and not adding any processing.

George

Wouldn't that be the way to go if I had an excellent source such as the Ultra DAC? I'm not keepign the OUtlaw....it'll eventually be relegated to HT duty only. I'm just looking to make the biggest impact I can initially until I can get the second piece of gear.

That is the way to go for the 950.

I was merely pointing out that I felt the analog bypass isn't the strong point of the 950 and that it isn't that great a 2 channel preamp.  From memory, I thought it was cloudy and lacking detail and resolution - sort of like looking through a dirty window compared to a clean one.

George

[zybar]

When I had my Modwright pre, I thought the bypass loop was essentially a shortcut around the volume control and output/gain stage.  The volume control definitely didn't work.

Maybe the Outlaw is different.

That is a different beast since that is a two channel preamp, not a pre/pro.

George

[avahifi]

Preamp first I think, assuming that your present CD player is not really awful.

Frank Van Alstine

[Carlman]

I've never heard a receiver come even close to the performance of a well-designed 2-channel preamp.  Go preamp.  It'll let you hear what you're not hearing now from your source.... That way you can appreciate the DAC upgrade.

-C

[zybar]

I've never heard a receiver come even close to the performance of a well-designed 2-channel preamp.  Go preamp.  It'll let you hear what you're not hearing now from your source.... That way you can appreciate the DAC upgrade.

-C

Bingo!!!

George

[ajzepp]

well, the man himself has spoken....thus let it be done!