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
atmasphere's avatar
atmasphere
11,942 posts
 
Really the best way to do it right is to send the CDP or DAC back to the manufacturer and ask that they lower the output. Its not that hard for them to do it and usually the result is better sound in addition to less troubles.

We have tried building in attenuators on certain AUX inputs and even though the impedance was no issue for the CDP, the result was a degradation, even with super high quality resistors. IOW attenuators are not a good solution.
roscoeiii's avatar
roscoeiii
1,155 posts
 
An option that I loved on the Atmasphere amp I owned was being able to lower the gain of the amp by substituting jumpers for one of the sets of tubes. A great option for a system with too much gain. Bravo Atmasphere for that capability.
clio09
3,360 posts
 
That is how I have run my Atma-Sphere amps as well due to the balanced output of my digital sources being 4.5 and 5.5 volts respectively. Atma-Sphere also provided with shorting plugs for the phono section of my MP-3 preamp as well for an extremely high output moving magnet cartridge. Ultimately though I will eventually address the issue at the source as Ralph has suggested.
160562
23 posts
 
I saw an AR ls 25 mk2 for sale, that interested me. 2 questions: 1- first stage, solid state. 2- A gain switch. Is this the solution to the problem we are discussing? How it works? I also have a gain problema.
topten
74 posts
 
I had similar problem with the NAD C356.
The problem is the volume gain. Problem solved
with the "Goldenjacks" from England. Very good tweak.
It even improved the sound. Highly recommended.
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