Do I need a pre-amp?

[Glenn Cimera]

I just made some recordings using my VF80. Burned to CD, and they seem to sound pretty good, my playing aside. I did not use a pre-amp, just MXL 603s direct into the recorder. What would a pre-amp do for the sound if the signal already seems to be strong enough without one? I know sound is subjective, but would the pre-amp make the recording cleaner, or clearer, or what?
Thanks!

 

[thajeremy]

the VF80 has 2 built-in pre's if im not mistaken. Im sure outboard pre's would be better, but if you are happy with your results then I wouldnt worry about it...im sure that the more you get into recording, you will grow tired of the onboards and get somthing else. Most of us do as much as our wallets will allow.