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Sound difference between High\Low Gain Setting when volume matched?

In a Dac+Amp that has more that one gain setting (that is switchable) - will it simply produce the exact same sound but with a different amount of amplification, or could there be actual differences in sound when volume is exactly matched?

The specific device in Topping DX3 Pro+ I got for my nephew.

Thanks!

mamac
fuzztone's avatar
fuzztone
5,598 posts
 

Depends a little on the design. AND if you can hear/feel a difference.

 

bslon's avatar
bslon
2,171 posts
 

My dealer recommended using the volume pot between 10 and 2 o’clock and then using gain to add/reduce volume to the desired level. That way your adjustment swings aren’t too wide or too narrow.

soix
9,456 posts
 

Usually, but not always, setting the volume knob higher is better for sound quality as less attenuation is required.  My volume knob is always between 3 and 6 o’clock (i.e. fully turned up).

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