EPJPhoto- When I decided on my amp, I bought it thinking to try an not use a preamp. Worked fine, but didn't feel that I had the best ability to balance the gains for different types of music. My previous preamp was an ARC SP-11 which was very well maintained and great, in it own right. I knew that with my Decware system, the only preamp I would add would be a CSP-3. Found a used one on the forum, made a deal and had it sent to the Zen Master to give it the once over and get the LT warranty and change the base. No Regrets at all. The amount of flexibility with the CSP-3 and Rachel is magic. Every day, every album / cd. Keep us posted and happy listening, Chris.