WTB or advice on which preamp to buy -- I need optical input -- RCA outputs -- or amp

[Jimmy154]

I was looking to build an amp, LM3886 or LM3875, but I do not really have the time.
Built LM3875 years ago and it sounded great, Brian GT boards I think.
Then found out Niles uses LM3886 incorporated into small modules.
Then just bought Niles SI-275 because it was so cheap and some reviews said it was bass heavy.

I need to buy a preamp with an optical input and RCA outputs.
What brands/models should I buy or does anyone have one for sale or maybe a kit? I have a case I like I have been saving for years.
Or I can buy an amp with optical input, which I think will be harder/more expensive.

There are a lot of (what I call) very nice RCA/analog amps out there for cheap. I guess it is old technology

 

[audiowize]

A device with an optical input and RCA outputs is called a DAC.

There are plenty of DAC designs out there for sale with headphone amps built in, and that would give you the analog volume control you desire.

 

[john65b]

I have a Rotel RSP 1068 that has a Optical input and Analog (RCA) out.

Its a Home theater preamp / processor - may be just what you need....Digital in, Analog (with volume control) out

 

[Jimmy154]

A device with an optical input and RCA outputs is called a DAC.

There are plenty of DAC designs out there for sale with headphone amps built in, and that would give you the analog volume control you desire.

I thought a DAC was a digital active crossover.
I guess I made that up somewhere along the way