I ran the direct out into several different power amps (or bypassed the preamp in a couple of very high-end integrateds) and found the CD-2 output to be outstanding. The only exception was the incredible new Coincident Statement dual-chassis tube linestage that sounds like $50,000 but sells for $5,000. Otherwise, I could go preampless with the CD-2 if I needed to and save a bunch of money on electronics and cables.