2. amps-preamps
  3. 1416669785

Super-sensitive volume controls - remedy?

I'm getting real tired of preamps with a volume control that does everything from a faint whisper to way too loud all in the 8:00 to 10:00 position on the dial. My old Rotel RC-995 was like that, and now my new Parasound 2100; both with remote volume that becomes useless with that level of sensitivity. Of course, I noticed a big change when I switched from Maggie MG12's to Tekton Lore Reference, even with my old Luxman CX-100.

My question is not about searching for preamps that don't do that, but whether there is a transparent method of attenuation, either externally or internally, that would allow a more gradual and precise volume adjustment.
minkwelder
minkwelder OP
256 posts
 
I know live sound is different, but when I was running sound for my bands, I set the board to run at unity gain and then used the input trims on the power amp to control the gain structure. I almost considered a pro amp just to get that level of control, but I don't want to replace my Musical Design D-140. It sounds to me that the Rothwells would be accomplishing the same thing as the input trims.

Which brings me to a couple more questions. Where are all the power amplifiers that require so much gain from a preamp for this to even become a problem? I know I've never owned one, and I've had a few. If I purchased a Parasound power amp, would I still be using only a small portion of the volume control?
raymonda
855 posts
 
A pro amp has pots to control input gain. essentially this is equal to an amp and passive combination.
georgehifi's avatar
georgehifi
10,312 posts
 
Minkwelder hi.
Most sources these days have enough output on their own to drive amps into clipping and then some, so there is no need to add more gain and colouration from an active preamp.

As Raymonda has said a passive preamp will do and probably give you even more transparency and dynamics.

This one is a bargain at $49 and uses a quality 10kohm pot.

http://schiit.com/products/sys-passive-preamp

Cheers George


minkwelder OP
256 posts
 
Thanks for the responses everyone. I guess maybe I need to rethink where I'm going with all this. The Parasound 2100 seemed like a good idea because of the number of inputs (including phono) and HT bypass and all. I actually don't have as many sources as I used to, but I've conditioned myself to want them just in case. Maybe if I found a passive like the Schiit SYS only with 3 or 4 inputs I may be able to set it up to do the front channels from my AV, my CD player, then get a phono stage........etc....etc...etc.
bbroussard
189 posts
 
If you are happy with everything else BUT the volume control, try some attenuators. I started with the Rothwells, then found some Endlers, and now I have EVS nudes. They all worked well. I just worked my way up the price ladder. My issue is that my CDP output is high, but it is a keeper, so I have learned to live with the attenuators.
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