Using Double Preamplification vs X10D V3

The tape outputs of the Parasound P/LD-2000 are unusual. They do not provide enough gain to drive another preamp, only the inputs of a tape deck. Also, I think it is the high current capability of the Parasound's active output stage that makes this setup work. And I have an outboard phono stage, so that's a non-issue in my case.

Call me old fashioned, but I believe in the sanctity of the single preamp system. It may be that on the east or west coast that sort of dual preamp behavior passes as normal, but here in the Midwest it's, dare I sound un-PC, unnatural. I hereby request that Audiogon revise the rules of the Forums to ban any further discussion of dual preamp system and not accept any new posts advocating their dual preamp lifestyle.

So is there a volume control setting on the Parasound that sounds best for all situations?

Onhwy61, I think you need to get out more. :)

Rwwear, I can't say that I've experimented that thouroughly with all the possible volume settings. Since both preamps have gain neither of them has to be turned up that high. I believe I have the Parasound set between 10 and 11 O'clock and the TAD ranges between 11 and 12 O'clock. It seems to work well like that. I do have to turn up the TAD a bit further when I use my turntable as opposed to the CD playback system, which has higher output. The input sensitivity of the amps and the speaker efficiency plus a few other things affect the spot on the dial where good listening volume is achieved.

I think DrMoles was alluding to the fact that many volume controls' interchannel tracking is usually more accurate at higher settings.