My system consists of an old dbx DX5 cd player (okay, really old) running straight into a B&K ST140 power amp, which in turn drives Dahlquist DQ8s via biwired Kimber cable (don't recall the type). Because the DX5 has variable outputs, I've been able to get away without a preamp for some time now, however, everything I read seems to say that I'm probably not getting the best sound this way. My question: Do I pick up an integrated amp and use it with the B&K to bi-amp the speakers (integrated for high frequencies, B&K for low) or just go with a preamp? In either case, I'd like to stay at around $500, so any recommendations for a budget integrated that would work as I indicate or budget preamp would also be appreciated.
My system consists of an old dbx DX5 cd player (okay, really old) running straight into a B&K ST140 power amp, which in turn drives Dahlquist DQ8s via biwired Kimber cable (don't recall the type). Because the DX5 has variable outputs, I've been able to get away without a preamp for some time now, however, everything I read seems to say that I'm probably not getting the best sound this way. My question: Do I pick up an integrated amp and use it with the B&K to bi-amp the speakers (integrated for high frequencies, B&K for low) or just go with a preamp? In either case, I'd like to stay at around $500, so any recommendations for a budget integrated that would work as I indicate or budget preamp would also be appreciated.