dual volume controls?

I've had several of each type, I choose equipment for the way it sounds and absolutely would not allow the type of volume control to limit my choices.

My Aesthetix Callisto was dual volume control and I used and enjoyed it for about ten years. Never gave a thought one way or the other that two knobs were turned up and down.

Now I have a preamp that has traditional (single) volume control and I have the best sound I've ever had but not because of the volume control.

A dual volume control should (in theory) be better, the two channels are more discrete and provide better signal to noise and separation at the critical point of controlling output voltage.

The Quicksilver full function preamp with it's stepped attenuators is a pleasure to use. Mike Sanders would not have chosen this design if he didn't think there is a benefit to it.

I found the Audible Illusions preamp without stepped attenuators very frustrating to balance. I gave up on it after one evening.

My old superphon dualmono with upgraded(alps) attenuaters was very effective.you could really tweak it.

I prefer a single volume control and remote control. It's very difficult, in my opinion, to get the sound level correct when not at the listening position.

If you need a balance control something is wrong elsewhere in your system.

Another thing that some don't realize is the volume control has a large effect on the sound quality of the preamp. The more devices in line the less transparent the device is. This is the reason I am opposed to balance controls and tone controls. If they are out of the circuit when not in use, fine.