Matching Pre-Amp for Audio Aero Capitole MKII ?

After my last post I emailed Ralph Bauer at Globe marketing, who then emailed Globe Audio for their input as to volume settings on the Capitole when run through a preamp.

Globe Audio states that at odB, the Capitole puts out about 5 volts from its preamp into the output. They state that amount *could* overload the preamp, and consequently recommend a volume level of -6dB. This level provides about 2 volts which should be sufficient. Minus 12dB represent unity gain, according to Globe Audio. If you are using the Capitole in *digital mode* only, the higher volume (0dB)setting gives the best signal to noise ratio. If you have the newer version (AI) with analog inputs- the additional voltage from the higher volume setting may be a surprise to your preamp.

Globe Audio recommends setting the Capitole at -12dB to start with, play a variety of music, and see if the
volume controls on your preamp cover the range of your ilstening in a useful way. If you detect no overload at the preamp input, which sounds like distortion on loud or ensemble passages, then you could increase the gain setting on the Capitole to -6dB or -7dB. Listen again carefully for any indication of overloading the the preamp. If you detect any, back it off a ways.

I've run my Capitole at 0dB for quite awhile into my Joule linestage with no negative results. I find running the Capitole at 0dB gives me a deeper, more textured bass response. I do not detect any overload that I can hear or feel in terms of overheating. Of course YMMV. I would recommend strongly following Globe's recommendations.

If you have high sensitivy amp or not so power hungry speakers I strongly suggest a good passive preamp. I have owned preamp from Lamm, Thor, Blue Circle and audition preamp from Pass X1, Orpheus Two, BAT VK51SE while they are good sounding they add color to the sound but none yet to beat the ultimate transparancy and neutrality of Placette RVC. The Placette sound better than even running direct from the AA Capitole volume control itself. Good thing the AA Capitole have high analog output of 5V.

I have Pass Labs Aleph 1.2 amps and the Capitol run direct just doesn't give me the dynamics at low volumes that I have come to expect. The bass is a bit tubby when run direct also. I had a Pass Labs d-1 dac that worked well run direct into the Pass amps though at 1/2 the power of the AA. Go figure. I love the AA and agree that another gain stage or two or five and interconnects is counter-intuitive but the input impedence of the power amp can be an issue.

I agree with above thread. The sound has more dynamics run through a Manley Steelhead pre. The sound running the Capitole direct is still excellent and sounds more delicate. Take yor pick