Preamp Gain issues with high efficiency speakers

Unfortunately when you get a component on one end of the audio spectrum… like really efficient or inefficient… a really low power amp… etc. Then you end up committed to carefully swapping out supporting equipment. Then the next move is really hard to make… if it is to switch things out, then you are locked into the strategy.

Band-aides degrade sound… components not really built for your speakers degrade the sound. Your preamp and amp are world class stuff… but not ideal for your speakers.

OP, I would carefully think about the long-term. Would you like to be using these really high efficiency speakers or others like it in 20 years? If so, swap out your amp and maybe preamp to feed your speakers. If not, consider swapping the speaker for mainstream. Otherwise you can end up in a situation where just everything has to get swapped out.

While, it will depend on you. I would cut my losses and swap your speakers for those that sound right to you and are mainstream. But if the speakers are your cup of tea, then swap out your electronics. Lots of research will be required… otherwise you could easily choose an amp that suits your speakers but not the preamp… and maybe not the DAC… then you have a real mess.

I can tell you other top linear tube audio , with top Lundahl transformer preamp 

call Mike at Audio Archon great preamp and several settings for gain actually 3 with a dip switch ,get the 6 sn7  tube , but also has 2 other tube  choices 4 tube total 

you tube has a-great review  breakdown and is superior to the CJ pre in several areas.

Thank you all for the input. I guess all the niggles are what make this hobby so fun (and the music) ... endless tinkering, and trying new things. 

To be clear, with my current set up , I am completely happy with the sound...just find it difficult to cope with the fact that I am running my pre in the bottom 10th of it's range most of the time. I guess in the end it doesn't really matter. 

That being said, I have a couple pieces of gear on the way .... 😂

It would be absurd IMO to change the speakers, preamp, amp now.

When you tame the volume, your Preamp’s volume control can be used/set to it’s ’normally best’ most linear position rather than it’s minimum starting point. That is a benefit!

These units can be used ’up front’ to select up to 4 sources and control each volume into your preamp,

OR, between the Preamp and Amp

ALPS Remote Volume Control

https://www.aliexpress.us/item/3256804138895759.html?src=google&aff_fcid=935f07f9b1c748348354370ac9bc6f3b-1703254601863-06284-UneMJZVf&aff_fsk=UneMJZVf&aff_platform=aaf&sk=UneMJZVf&aff_trace_key=935f07f9b1c748348354370ac9bc6f3b-1703254601863-06284-UneMJZVf&terminal_id=9e131df15aa34acea8ffefb4ac5e99e0&afSmartRedirect=y&gatewayAdapt=glo2usa

My beloved Chase Remote Line Controller can be used similarly. None of my Audiophile Friends can EVER (over many years of blind tests) hear any difference whether it is in or out of signal path. It just does it’s thing to your advantage!

NOTE: MUST have the remote for the Chase unit, no controls on the unit.

The Chase has the added benefit of Automatically/Progressively implementing Fletcher Munson ’loudness’ (low volume bass boost), which would definitely be an advantage for you.

Default volume and higher: FM not in line

lower than default, FM begins, slight and more bit by bit as you lower the volume.

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Try the Chase, keep it, or I will buy it from you, never hurts to have a spare for me or a friend.

If you use it for a while, then solve it by other means, then if you want, I'll buy it then.

btw, I am using one Chase unit in my Office System simply for remote power of the system, then the Luxman Integrated (it's power switch left depressed) for everything else, including it's input selection; phono MM or MC; remote volume and mute.

I tend to stay away from any preamplifiers using an ALPs pot. The attenuator is the heart and soul of a good preamp and can make a huge impact on the end result.