Problem with preamp volume control

You can install the attenuators on the phono input or on the amp input depending on what else plugs into the preamp.

I would not install any such attenuator on the phono input in a case such as this, where a high output cartridge is being used. The resultant loading of the cartridge will be very non-optimal.

Also, I recall that some time ago a member here measured the impedances (i.e., the series and shunt resistances) of Harrison labs attenuators, and the numbers were vastly lower than those of the Rothwells, and are likely to be problematical in many home (non-pro) audio applications. Especially when driven by many and perhaps most tube preamps.

Regards,
-- Al

rvpiano,

To follow my discussion on vacuum tube gain, for 12AX7 and 5751 tubes see this list, https://www.tubesandmore.com/tech-corner/12ax7-comparison-current-made-tubes.  

Otherwise, the recommendation to use Rothwell attenuators is supported  by many reviews such as TNT Audio, but again these are sourced UK.

What Almarg said.  Or live with it.

@almarg,

Unless the inline attenuator adds capacitance, the added resistance 'may not' be that bad for a MM cartridge and could be good, https://www.tnt-audio.com/sorgenti/load_the_magnets_e.html.  But I will defer to your experience with these attenuators.

My setup includes a Benchmark AHB 2 amplifier and GoldenEar Triton 1 speakers.
The line stage gain is 27 Db
The phono stage is listed as:
High gain 54 Db
Low gain 40 Db
I don’t know why there is a high and a low gain listing for the phono stage.
Is there a setting for this?
I don’t hear any distortion whatsoever.
I don’t mind the low setting.  I just would like more play in the volume control.
Right now, minuscule turns achieve large changes in volume.
i wouldn’t know how to attach an attenuator. I will call CJ and see if I can get Help