DAC V-1 as a preamp.

Posted by: awn on 06 February 2016

Has anyone here used the DAC V-1 as a preamp? I am interested to know how it performs compared to say .. the entry level preamps from naim. 

Posted on: 11 February 2016 by Mortalcoil

Just to add to this thread (and without derailing) my only wish for the V1 would have been if it had balanced outs. I say this due to the fact that Im running it into a Simaudio 430HA headphone amp that is fully balanced.  Obviously would be nice to take advantage of that from a source (DAC) standpoint. 

Other than that a stellar piece of gear in every aspect.  A true testament to Naims expertise in power supplies (implementation) amongst other things.

Posted on: 11 February 2016 by Brilliant

I much prefer V1used as a DAC only (i.e. with the preamp output fixed) I find that when used as a pre-amp there is a certain loss of 'Joie de vivre ' ! The slightest veil on 'highlights' and softening of low level detail and transients are noticeable.

Posted on: 11 February 2016 by Pallie
Brilliant posted:

I much prefer V1used as a DAC only (i.e. with the preamp output fixed) I find that when used as a pre-amp there is a certain loss of 'Joie de vivre ' ! The slightest veil on 'highlights' and softening of low level detail and transients are noticeable.

Okay so you use your UQ as streamer and pre-amp? So you can use the Naim app?

Posted on: 11 February 2016 by Brilliant
Pallie posted:
Brilliant posted:

I much prefer V1used as a DAC only (i.e. with the preamp output fixed) I find that when used as a pre-amp there is a certain loss of 'Joie de vivre ' ! The slightest veil on 'highlights' and softening of low level detail and transients are noticeable.

Okay so you use your UQ as streamer and pre-amp? So you can use the Naim app?

No - sorry the UQ & DAC-V1 are in two different locations. I use their respective remotes, the UQ in its own small den system, using all its inputs, power amp and headphone amp at night (videos & movies)! I have a dedicated PC for sound recording & use DAC-V1 for playback via SPDIF (and USB sometimes) into a separate setup!