2. misc-audio
  3. 131779-89202

Psychological effects of volume control

I just bought a new DAC and found the volume control on my preamp has to be boosted way beyond my normal settings in order for me to reach an acceptable level of sound.
Although there is no distortion or clipping in the amplifier, I somehow feel the sound is compromised even though objectively I know it is much better than before, as the DAC is far better quality than the old one. It’s just my reaction to boosting that volume control.
Does anyone else have this type of neurotic reaction to changes?
128x128Ag insider logo xs@2xrvpiano
rvpiano's avatar
Ag insider logo xs@2x
rvpiano OP
2,666 posts
 
I think my problem is just getting used to the new parameters.
Instead of  “normal” being about 9 o’clock  on the dial, it’s now at 11.
Still far below the maximum volume setting.
gs5556
1,235 posts
 
Sounds like the old DAC had a higher output voltage. Generally, preamps see 2VAC (single ended) from sources but some CD players and DACs put out as much as 8 volts.


shadorne's avatar
Ag insider logo xs@2x
shadorne
7,477 posts
 
It is actually better that your preamp volume run between 11 o’clock and 3 o’clock.

You should always adjust the power amp input sensitivity to allow the volume knob to work in this optimal range (preserve signal to noise by keeping the signal level higher on your line level equipment)

All pro power amps allow the input sensitivity to be adjusted for this reason.


rvpiano's avatar
Ag insider logo xs@2x
rvpiano OP
2,666 posts
 
Very interesting.

I feel foolish for my previous concerns.
The DAC is bringing everything wonderfully to life now that I’ve discovered the proper volume adjustment!
Much better in so many ways than the Theta I was using.
ohlala
1,236 posts
 
I once bought a used, more "sophisticated" preamp and encountered the same confusion; I was a monkey scratching its head. Mine has three volume controls, even worse. I sent it to Lamm to get it checked out, partly for the volume reason.You get used to something working in a slightly different way.
More to discover