2. amps-preamps
  3. 168622-22888

amplifier with volume control

I began my journey with an active preamp then switched to a placette passive which was more transparent but sucked the life out of my system (but I was using longer interconnects to monoblocks).  I have one source (a computer with a usb dac) and am now running direct to my amplifier which sounds much better than my previous 2 configurations. I am using a digital volume control and my thought is to change to an amp with a built in volume control - like an audion - or have a tech install one on my amplifier. My question is how is an amp with a volume control different - if at all- from a passive (simple pot in a box) connected with short interconnects to an amplifier?       thank you
majorc
verdantaudio's avatar
verdantaudio
1,500 posts
 
It depends on the amp and the optimal level of gain required.  With an amp that is extremely sensitive, (for example Art Audio PX25 or Diavolo is driven to max volume at .5v input) a passive preamp is preferred.  With amps that are less sensitive, higher gain in the preamp and a higher output is preferred and will deliver a better sounding experience.  

The key is choosing the right option for the power amp in question.  There is no "best option."  There are best options for that particular amp and system.  
jp-2213
43 posts
 
Airtight or nice little integrated with a quality volume attenuator or best bet for your set-up (as mentioned prior) a DAC with quality volume control

ieales's avatar
ieales
1,201 posts
 
The demands the input of an amplifier puts on a source is just like what a speaker puts on an amp 
utter nonsense. This just flat out wrong. There is next to zero current required in the input of an amplifier. There is no dynamic impedance or flyback current. Like most of what MC says, PURE HOGWASH!

you will find out that a well designed pre amp will actually outperform a passive circuit with any type of dynamic music, something is lost going all passive
utter nonsense.

If the impedance and design are correct, a passive has less coloration than almost any active circuit. Some devices may not be capable of driving a passive, but that is not a fault of the passive.
dmk_calgary
125 posts
 
check out Decware.com - they make tube amps with volume controls and also a pre-amp. Made in the USA too.
yogiboy's avatar
yogiboy
5,737 posts
 
This Conrad-Johnson CAV 45 should fit the bill!
https://www.tonepublications.com/review/review-conrad-johnson-cav-45s2/#:~:text=A%20long%20test%20dr....
Or this Van Alstine!
https://avahifi.com/collections/power-amplifiers/products/set-120-control-amplifier
More to discover