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Where do I set volume control on NAD M51 DAC?

All--
The NAD M51 DAC has a variable volume control.  I initially thought that I should just set it at 0 dB, but then I questioned that.  I can't see where NAD makes any recommendation as to where it should be set.  

It seems to my untrained ear that something south of 0 dB is better than 0. 

Any input on where to set it and why would be greatly appreciated!





128x128jbhiller
mmeysarosh
126 posts
 
While there doesn't seem to be a clear exact figure, there seems to be a general consensus that -0 db is a bit to high. Noted by many through listening as well is measurements taken by Stereophile, where the DAC performed better at -10 db then it did at -0 db on their Benchmarks.

http://www.stereophile.com/content/nad-m51-direct-digital-da-converter-measurements#yAwtilFGs7kixtPK...

Also note that at -0 db, the voltage is slight bit above standard and a little of the volume seems to be the best route.
jbhiller's avatar
jbhiller OP
1,440 posts
 
Thanks mmeysarosh!  I'll try -10dB
georgehifi's avatar
georgehifi
10,312 posts
 
The Nad only puts out 2.375V SE at full output, a little over the Redbook standard and should pose no overload problems for any well designed preamp.
If you do reduce it, try to stay at 75% or higher, as some digital domain volume control can "bit strip" if below 75% of full output. EG: 14bit resolution or 12bit and further if it’s very low.
Thorsten Loschech of AMR, says he can hear a detriment of just a small -10% reduction from full up, on digital domain volume controls. I can’t, it needs to be -25% or more for me to hear it.

Cheers George
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