Lampizator Horizon360 - Broadening Our Musical Horizons

[marty]

Hello wokeuptobose,

I am making this comment not because I have any experience comparing Horizon360 direct versus to a pre-amp, but rather for the proposition that what one particular audiophile suggests is not necessarily what is best for you and your ears in your system. This is a very subjective hobby, and lots of people have lots of different opinions that they hold strongly and treat like objective fact.

Having said that if almost all owners use Horizon360 with a preamp that certainly is probative and material information on the question you raise. (If a line stage preamp is high enough quality I like using active preamps myself.)

My answer to almost all questions of this nature is to "try it yourself because only your opinion matters." VAC line stages are wonderful. I think the Statement ups the parts quality and vibration isolation a bit from the Master. You cannot go wrong with either one. But both are an expensive way to conduct this experiment.

If you want to conduct the experiment I would suggest you consider buying whichever VAC preamp you can purchase for the lowest fraction of MSRP to enable you to sell it relatively easily if you decide after the experiment, contrary to most users, that you prefer the direct method.

Just for fun, I asked ChatGPT the following question and received the following response:

You said:​

A digital audio converter can be run directly to a power amplifier or it can be run through a preamplifier which then connects to a power amplifier. What are the advantages and disadvantages of either method?

ChatGPT said:​

Connecting a digital audio converter (DAC) directly to a power amplifier or running it through a preamplifier each has its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Here's an analysis of both methods:

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1. DAC Directly to Power Amplifier​

Advantages:​

• Simpler Signal Path: Fewer components in the audio chain can result in less signal degradation and potentially better sound quality.
• Cost-Effective: Eliminates the need for a separate preamplifier, saving money and space.
• Reduced Noise and Distortion: Direct connection can reduce the introduction of noise and distortion that might be introduced by an additional device.
• Compact Setup: A more streamlined setup with fewer devices and cables.

Disadvantages:​

• Volume Control Issues: Many DACs lack precise volume control, and controlling volume digitally can sometimes reduce resolution, especially at lower levels.
• Limited Input Switching: Most DACs don’t offer extensive input switching capabilities for multiple sources, which a preamp typically provides.
• Impedance Mismatch: Some DACs may not be able to drive a power amplifier effectively, potentially leading to suboptimal sound performance.
• No Tone/Balance Control: Direct connection eliminates the possibility of tone shaping or other adjustments that some preamps offer.

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2. DAC Through a Preamplifier to Power Amplifier​

Advantages:​

• Volume Control: Preamps provide more precise and analog-friendly volume control without compromising signal resolution.
• Source Switching: Preamplifiers often come with multiple inputs, allowing for seamless switching between different audio sources.
• Impedance Matching: A preamplifier ensures proper impedance matching between the DAC and the power amplifier, improving audio performance.
• Additional Features: Many preamps include equalization, balance control, or other signal processing features to customize the sound.

Disadvantages:​

• Additional Cost: A quality preamplifier can be expensive, increasing the overall cost of the system.
• Complexity: More components mean more cables, connections, and potential points of failure.
• Potential Signal Degradation: The additional stage can introduce its own noise or distortion, depending on the preamplifier's quality.
• Space Requirements: The setup becomes bulkier with the addition of a preamplifier.

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Key Considerations:​

• DAC Capability: If your DAC has robust volume control and can drive a power amplifier effectively, a direct connection might be the simplest and most effective solution.
• System Complexity: If you use multiple sources or require features like tone control, a preamplifier is likely essential.
• Sound Preferences: Some audiophiles prefer the sonic characteristics introduced by certain preamplifiers, which can add warmth or other desired tonal qualities.
• Budget and Space: A direct setup is more budget-friendly and space-saving, while adding a preamp increases flexibility at the cost of additional investment.

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Ultimately, the choice depends on your system configuration, listening habits, and personal preferences. If possible, testing both configurations in your listening environment can help determine which works best for your needs.

The bottom line is that ChatGPT gave essentially the same final advice as Ron!
My take away- why bother with Chat GPT? Next time, I'll just ask RonGPT. Better watch out, Mr. Altman!!

 

[wokeuptobose]

And the way Ron creates prose is "more engaging" to read than ChatGBT!

 

[Sampajanna]

I agree with Ron and am an example of the counter. I run my Horizon 360 direct to my amps. I even run my analogue through the Horizon 360. The Horizon has a great preamp built in. I like the direct quality. I find it cleaner and clearer. I like the idea of less circuits and cables. If you are volume matching the preamp of the Horizon to a preamp, you are essentially passing the signal through two preamps (the Horizon’s and an external one). Otherwise, you have to run the Horizon at full volume to bypass the preamp…

I think this is very system dependent. I would love to find out what your experiments reveal. Mine went in the opposite direction. I also love what Ron said in general: lots of opinion repeated over and over and stated as though it is fact. Always listen for yourself or you will be led around by fads, trends, schills, ads, etc. and this hobby will get frustrating (Been there, done that and have the T-shirt).

Once I knew the sound I WANT, things started to work out for me.

 

[Steve Williams]

Bottom line there is not right answer. The answer is different for every listener, his room, his speakers and electronics and most of all his ears and his wallet. What I love to read hear is the enjoyment so many users are getting with so many different pathways. To me it's all good and one should never feel they are missing something if what they are hearing makes music and is aurally pleasing. Same goes for tube kits. There is no right answer here as well. Find the sound you like and make sure you have back up sets . I totally agree about the excellence of the H360 preamp and the sonic pleasure it creates for so many. To me this is what makes this hobby so much fun. As long as it makes music that lights you up, nothing else should matter As I said it's your ass in the chair dictated by your ears and your wallet. Enjoy and never apologize for a direction that you have chosen. I believe that we are alll respectful of everyone's choices. It's all good thanks to Lukasz and the choices he has provided us