Icorem ... again, if you find a better match for your awesome looking AudioNet MAX mono amps, then you most definitely should go for it. If you are still in the investigative stage, keep looking.
But I think the volume control setting on the Ref 5 SE is only relevant if you are not able to drive your amp to full power. The amp's 37K ohm RCA input impedance is well above ARC's recommended minimum.
I have 2 suggestions, but only if you have any continuing interest in the Ref 5 SE. One ... if you think you kinda' like the Ref 5 SE match, call Kal at ARC customer service and share your concerns with him. It's a fair technical issue that deserves a technically competent answer.
Two ... if Kal assures you that the volume setting question is a non-issue, then give the Ref 5 SE a serious road test. IMO, it's a great pre, but not the only great pre out there.
That said, if you have moved on and the Ref 5 SE is not on your short list, ... well ok then. Keep looking.
Sorry to perseverate. I just don't think the volume control setting is a key issue. FWIW, I am listening to DG Mozart piano sonatas CDs, played off my ARC Ref CD-8. My Ref 5 SE's volume control is set at 70. Speaker SPLs are just fine. If I move the volume to 80, my ears hurt. And that leaves 24 clicks to go.
Cheers,
BIF
But I think the volume control setting on the Ref 5 SE is only relevant if you are not able to drive your amp to full power. The amp's 37K ohm RCA input impedance is well above ARC's recommended minimum.
I have 2 suggestions, but only if you have any continuing interest in the Ref 5 SE. One ... if you think you kinda' like the Ref 5 SE match, call Kal at ARC customer service and share your concerns with him. It's a fair technical issue that deserves a technically competent answer.
Two ... if Kal assures you that the volume setting question is a non-issue, then give the Ref 5 SE a serious road test. IMO, it's a great pre, but not the only great pre out there.
That said, if you have moved on and the Ref 5 SE is not on your short list, ... well ok then. Keep looking.
Sorry to perseverate. I just don't think the volume control setting is a key issue. FWIW, I am listening to DG Mozart piano sonatas CDs, played off my ARC Ref CD-8. My Ref 5 SE's volume control is set at 70. Speaker SPLs are just fine. If I move the volume to 80, my ears hurt. And that leaves 24 clicks to go.
Cheers,
BIF