2. amps-preamps
  3. 189305-130193

which gain setting for Bryston 4b cubed power amp using my RME ADI-2 DAC FS?

the amp has two gain settings, 23db and 29 db.....the manual suggests 23db for balanced sources....not sure if my RME is balanced despite its xlr outputs

does 23db mean lower noise but also less power output?  can I just try both settings or could the wrong one be harmful?

please and thanks

I've pasted below the manual info around this piece

"Gain Select Switch:the optimum gain setting will depend upon the
source pre-amp operating level, and or personal
preference.


The 29dB setting is used when the source is

single-ended or from a transformer coupled
balanced source. This is the typical for single
ended or un-balanced operation. The 29dB
setting provides the most amplifier gain and
equates to 100w @ 8 ohms output for a 1V input.
The 23dB setting is used when the source
output is actively balanced. This is the typical
setting for balanced operation. Or use this
setting whenever less gain is required. The 23dB
setting equates to an output of 100w @ 8 ohms
for 2V input.
The noise is referenced in dB below rated
output. Different input configurations result
in slightly different noise readings. The above
noise ratings represent minimum readings.
Actual readings may be better.

 

 

 

audiocanada
soix
9,456 posts
 

I tend to doubt the RME is fully balanced as they never mention it on their site as you think they would, and you’d also think if it was they would’ve included an AES/EBU input instead of just SPDIF and Toslink.  As the output of the balanced outs is higher than the RCA outs I’d think the 23dB gain setting might be preferable.  Call me crazy, but I just wouldn’t run a $7500 amp with a digital volume control in a $1300 DAC unless it’s just a stopgap for something better to come.  But that’s me.  Hope this helps somewhat. 

audiocanada OP
206 posts
 

that was helpful, thanks

the RME is in fact a kind of stop gap

12many
264 posts
 

Use the one that sound better at the volume you listen.  My amp has gain settings as well and it depends on the preamp and your speakers.  

jfrmusic
266 posts
 

Yes I’m currently running my MSB Discrete DAC directly into my Benchmark AHB2 Amplifier. I have the amp gain at the mid setting of 17db and the DAC Output Impedance set to Low (150 ohms). This gives me a good volume range on my DAC. Volume control. Usually between 85 and 90 on a 0-106 scale. These settings also sound the best. I tried inserting the Benchmark HPA4 Preamp and found it to have benefit in SQ and I’m all Digital Streaming so no need for a variety of inputs. I did hear the MSB DAC with the Bryston 4b3 with the gain at 29db. It sounded fine. It’s always a delicate balance. In my case the higher 23db gain setting on the Benchmark sounded more forward with a loss of soundstage depth. 

avanti1960
1,474 posts
 

listen to both.  not enough gain sounds dull and lacks dynamics.  too much gain sounds unrefned, slightly edgy, possibly too midrange forward and like turning up the volume will cause fatigue.  regardless of specs trying and listening to each gain  setting is recommended.  

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