2. amps-preamps
  3. 1300102009

Volume control vs. attenuation control

Can someone please explain the difference between a volume control on an amp and an attenuation control on a pre amp. My pre amp manual states to leave the attenuation control at 0db for critical listening. Some amps have volume controls built in. So if I wanted more "play area" in the pre amp volume control (when playing CD's so the music isn't blasting at the 9:00 position) would it be better to lower the amps volume control or the pre amps attenuation control?
markpao
Post removed 
onhwy61's avatar
onhwy61
5,270 posts
 
All volume controls are attenuators. Gain stages amplify the electrical signal and attenuators, either before or after a gain stage, reduce the level of the signal.

The setup up Markpao describes will allow him to play with both attenuators to achieve the combination of lowest signal to noise ratio and flexible volume control settings.
marakanetz's avatar
marakanetz
5,473 posts
 
In your case you're describing gain control vs. attenuation control on your preamp section that should be set to the best possible volume range that you want to operate your volume control for ex 7...12 o'clock. If you feel that you get distortions on the most of your listening range try to adjust one way or the other untill you get the most of sound and leave the gain control untouched.
hifihvn
943 posts
 
I would try the combination you like, then do some critical listening. A/B between that and their suggested setting, and see if you loose/gain anything. If it sounds the same (better possibly?), go for it.
4est
507 posts
 
I would adjust the amp in so that I could turn the pre up to about 3:00or 0db for normal use as they say.
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