Parasound volume level question

Most if not all mfgs. recommend running the level controls on pwr. amps wide open for lowest distortion. However pre amps with too much gain don`t allow a wide range of volume control settings. In this case adjusting the input level on the pwr. amp will allow a wider range of settings on the pre amp vol. control.

I have the gain control on the amp set full on to the THX reference level as Parasound recommends. They were kind enough to also answer my question - here is their reply:

"The P 3 is designed not to clip an audio signal, and advancing the volume control to closer to the high end of its range is perfectly normal. It was designed for maximum headroom and minimal background noise.

One of the all-time revered classic audio components was the JBL SA600 integrated amp (circa 1970). For average listening levels the setting of its volume knob was typically between 2-3 o'clock."

I also note that the photo of the Halo P3 on Parasound's web site shows the volume set at 57. I have noticed that I can set the volume control slightly lower for the same SPL with a CD player. I'm using an SCPH-1001 PS1 and I must say it sounds pretty darned good.

The entire set-up sounds absolutely wonderful. Really shows the limitations of poor recordings, and conversely, the range and nuances of good ones. I am spending hours rediscovering my (too) long stored away vinyl collection.

Thanks...

Headphones are not that much different than speakers. Maybe the headphones you are using are not very efficient, try a different pair.

Sorry to turn this around but how do you like the Shure VST III cartridge? I just got one on Ebay for $16.00 with a broken stylus.
Thank you, Rick Hall.

I own a P3 connected to a PS Audio hca-2, using a Grado Prestige Gold cartridge on a pro-ject Rm6 SB turntable, with B&W matrix 804 speakers employing the B&W bass filter or whatever it's called.

A volume of 66 on the preamp would be painfully loud. I wince when I set my volume control to 60, and I like to listen to Rob Zombie and Rammstein. My listening room is pretty bright acoustically, 14'X18' with fairly low 7' ceiling with acoustic tile that's really not acoustic.

I did find that I had to adjust volume down after employing XLR connections between pre and pwr amps rather than RCAs. Not much, but it was readily discernable.