when is bypass really bypass

[misterdoggy]

Lets say that you are driving your 802D's with a great CD player, great Amp but the problem is Preamp and Processor.

Everyone knows a Preamp is better sound than a Processor. However, If you are using a Processor in "bypass" with only gain or volume on a top unit like a lexicon mc12Bv5, aren't you getting a pure sound from the CD player direct.

Not all bypasses are created equal of course, but..........

[Aldo]

I have 802D's with a Classe SACD 2 athrough a Halcro Processor in bypass mode and it sound amazing, I just cant imagine how it could sound better! I know it is supposed to get better with a pre, but I'm extremely happy with these combo!

[misterdoggy]

I have 802D's with a Classe SACD 2 athrough a Halcro Processor in bypass mode and it sound amazing, I just cant imagine how it could sound better! I know it is supposed to get better with a pre, but I'm extremely happy with these combo!

Aldo,
I had my system bypass thru the lexicon mc12 and didn't think it could sound better until I had an X1 pass labs preamp. Using the preamp to bypass the signal from the processor and direct for cd it definitely sounded better. Then the ML 326S was outstanding.

A processor can't sound as good as a good dedicated preamp. But why not. Bypass should be bypass, but it isn't is it.