Is the preamp solved?

[john61ct]

The WiiM Ultra is actually a pretty solid option

That is very accurate for the ADC side, it only costs a little more if you ever want to improve that bit, miniDSP Pocket for example, maybe fronted by a passive source selector, also cheap.

Better than "pretty solid" for all-digital needs.

But the HPamp is IMO the weakest link, use the USB Audio out to a better DAC/HPamp unless you're OK with mediocre.

Note that neither of those is actually part of "OG preamp" functionality - the Wiim Ultra does VERY well on those

 

[Arc78]

Ok so I did a test, I bought a Trafomatic Audio - The Experience Line One tube preamp.
I connected it to same amp same source wiim mini Spotify lossless nad Nautilus 804.
I just charged from my nad integrated and remove the jumpers so it became an power amp.
Its a hell of expensive preamp.
I have at least an umic but maybe need other equipment to measure what it does but sure it does something impressive.
Was it worth 800$ ? By all means.
Could this been done with eq or something else?
I am not sure but not normal eq.
What happened is that sound is less bright and soundstage is different singer is more out in the room between the speakers than before. It’s more body to the midrange.
I for sure did not expect this. But especially acoustic music is so much more enjoyable.
If it change the sound it’s by far for the better.
Different dac cables is a lot of crap in many cases but this is something.
If it’s this huge change it has to possible to measure it?
More accurate I am not sure but more enjoyable I can tell