Forgive my asking, but what's the problem with having the volume knob at 12 o'clock? In my opinion, this is ideal as it provides you with some room for volume adjustment, rather than being extremely loud with minimal turning of the knob.
In your case, you should be able to run the preamp fairly wide open because it doesn't sound like you're overloading your amp/speakers.
Michael
In your case, you should be able to run the preamp fairly wide open because it doesn't sound like you're overloading your amp/speakers.
Michael