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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
atmasphere's avatar
atmasphere
11,874 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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