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Overloading a preamp input question

I’ve recently run into a situation where a dac w it’s volume control bypassed overloaded my preamps line stage input. I’m assuming that in bypass mode the dac is outputting full gain which is thought to be 9v. Is that a lot? I’ve never had this scenario before. I believe that std output for most cd players in balanced mode is around 4v.
Im thinking that a tech guy on this site can provide some input. thanks

4425
czarivey
5,946 posts
 
There are preamp specification on input ranges. 9V is definitely too much for the most of preamps.
atmasphere's avatar
atmasphere
11,834 posts
 
9 volts is a lot. You are correct- Redbook Standard for balanced operation is 4 volts.

But if the preamp is set up right, it should be impossible to overload the input! This is because the volume control **should** be at the input of the circuit; if it does not, then sooner or later the line section **will** get overloaded!
4425 OP
861 posts
 
well thanks guys. in the end i have discovered that the problem was not overload at all. i regret the post but appreciate the responses. thanks
czarivey
5,946 posts
 
Ralph, I overloaded preamps on several occasions with blown input transistors.
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