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Preamp output voltage...affect on volume???

I am in the middle of auditioning a new preamp which outputs 50 vrms max. My current preamp outputs 20vrms max. Assuming they are both pretty close in terms of gain and have the same number of volume steps (100 @ 0.5db each), does that mean the preamp with the 50vrms output will cause my sysem to sound louder than the 20vrms preamp (all else constant)? If so, how much louder?

thank you...
tboooe
herman
2,282 posts
 
Everything else being equal (and I doubt that it is) if preamp a has a lower output impedance than b it will play louder at the same setting.

What are the specs on the preamps? (BTW, 50Vrms is EXTREMELY high for a pre amp, are you sure about that?)
Do they really have the same gain?
Do they have the same taper on their volume controls?
Are you using them both balanced?
Why do you have this same basic question posted in several different threads? I think you'll get better answers if we don't have to follow 2 threads on the same topic.

Perhaps it would be helpful if you listed the preamps instead of having us guess what the problem is?
tboooe's avatar
tboooe OP
1,009 posts
 
herman, I currently have the Classe CP-700 pre. The other pre I am auditioning is the new BAT VK-52se.
herman
2,282 posts
 
I checked their web sites but can't find any specs for gain on either of the preamps.
tboooe's avatar
tboooe OP
1,009 posts
 
herman, i was told by BAT that the max gain is 17db. I am going to check the gain for the classe today...i will report back.
aball
2,018 posts
 
It does sound like they have different gain. If you can't find the gain, you can also use the input sensitivity voltage to get your answer.

I seem to recall you can change the gain in the new Classe Delta preamps. I remember my old CP50 had this feature. It is a very practical feature to get the most resolution out of your volume control.

Arthur
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