So if my tv only has a Optical digital audio output (TOSLINK) do I run it through my DAC or to the pre itself?
In systems like this you have to run a toslink cable to a DAC or a streamer with a DAC built in. On some TV’s you have to go into the audio set up menus to disable any form of surround sound output and enable a 2 channel PCM output on the TV. Most modern TV’s have no analog outputs, so you can’t wire this sort of connection to an analog pre-amp.
Good luck,
Bruce