Analog vs. Digital for 2 channel..I'm confused!

[Shinnosuki]

When listening to digital music through optical cable link, it's much clearer than using RCA analog interconnect...true?

If so, how come stereo preamps don't use this technology?

If not, if I were to use a stereo preamp/proamp, are you saying it just as clear as a digital cable link via optic fibers?

The reason I ask this is because I listen to mainly MP3 through my PS3 via optical connection and I want to go into a preamp/proamp setup for 2 channel now, but the preamp I'm looking at, Rotel RC1082, only use RCA interconnect.

So many questions:

Am I losing a lot of clarity because the DAC on the PS3 really sucks that bad? or it is normal because its running off analog RCA interconnect?

Does differences in DAC really make a night and day difference?

What can I do if I want 2ch system and play mp3 as main source? I'm thinking if I need a surround preamp just for this purpose, I'll just go with a Rotel RSP 1068. So what do you guys think?

BTW, sorry if all this may sound confusing, it is even for me so I'm asking! I am pretty new to separates but I want a really pure and clean sound and I don't know how that's possible if I want to run a digital source..and yes I know mp3 is not the best in sound quality but its easier to manage :

Thanks all!

[june]

hello,

let your ears be the judge. i'm an analog person. i also use a rotel rsp1068 with a rcc 1055 cd player.

[bigburner]

Shinnosuki,

Make Google your friend Grasshopper. For example:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Analog_sound_vs._digital_sound

Nigel.

[avrtRick]

Hi mate.

To give you the most simple answer; It comes down to the DAC in the source versus the DAC in the pre or pre/pro you end up buying

So, since the rc1082 only has RCA inputs(no DAC), I would suggest buying a good cd/mp3 player and if thats not an option I would go for the RSP1068

Just my 2cents worth

Rick

[Shinnosuki]

yea thanks, i did a lot of research on my own and figured a lot more than I need to know..i guess the only way is to get a 1068...i'm hoping since the 15 series are coming out, i would see a lot used on sale on ebay or audiogon! *crosses fingers*

[avrtRick]

I hope it all goes well good luck