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Old 27th February 2007, 13:19   #1
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Do I need a Pre-amp?

Hi Ice Men

Just a quick check - we were having a small debate over a CD player (home, not IN-CAR).

Does the NAD C542 require a Pre-amp before it goes into the Amp?
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Old 27th February 2007, 13:30   #2
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Steeroid View Post
Hi Ice Men

Just a quick check - we were having a small debate over a CD player (home, not IN-CAR).

Does the NAD C542 require a Pre-amp before it goes into the Amp?

Hey Steer

Well it depends... in simple speak,

If your amp is an integrated amp (has volume knob, source switching, tone controls etc built in) or an AV receiver, then NO cuz the preamp is built in your amp.

However, if your amp is a power amp (lacks source switching, tone controls etc built in) then YES, you will need a preamp in between.
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Old 27th February 2007, 13:31   #3
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There are 2 kinds of Amps.

1) Integrated - These have volume and tone controls and many features. Integrated means an integration of Power and Pre Amplifier.
If you have this, you do not need a Pre-Amplifier.

2) Power Amp - Almost always has no control. However has a gain control often. Though you can get sound from a source plugged straight in, the output level of your CD player may be low.
If you have a power amp, then you will mostly need a pre amplifier.
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Old 27th February 2007, 13:38   #4
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It is an integrated amp, so that settles the issue. No pre-amp required - I have this colleague of mine who insists that I connect the preamp for better sound. Let me challenge him with borrowed knowledge from TBHP

You guys rock. And roll, from what I've heard.
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Old 27th February 2007, 13:56   #5
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Steeroid View Post
It is an integrated amp, so that settles the issue. No pre-amp required - I have this colleague of mine who insists that I connect the preamp for better sound. Let me challenge him with borrowed knowledge from TBHP

You guys rock. And roll, from what I've heard.
Firstly, nice cd player. I use the NAD C541, the predecessor.

Maybe your friend is coming from a different angle. Probably he thinks that the pre-amp section of your integrated amplifier is not up to the mark, and hence wants you to bypass it and use a high quality external pre-amp instead. If not, your question is already answered.
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Old 28th February 2007, 10:28   #6
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Actually (I have not seen the 542) many CD players need NOT have any preamp. I used to use my CD63KI without a pre amp. Using it's internal volume control. That said B&T has hit the nail on the head.

However I find the place where most manufacturers of integrated amps skimp on is in the power supply. This usually affects the power amp section more than the pre amp.
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