Preamp gain ???

if your integrated has pre out and main in jacks or a tape/processor loop, you could insert attenuators in the loop.

Hi Bobrock

I like Swampwalker's idea. I don't if your integrated has XLR Outputs and inputs but this is the line level attentnuator I use. The possible problem is that it lowers gains in increments of 10db. They are about $40 each but are well built IMO.

Audio-Technica AT8202 Attenuator with 10, 20 or 30 db of Selectible Attenuation - In-Line XLR Barrel

Rothwell sells well regarded 10 dB attenuators in RCA and xlr termination.

The Rothwell Attenuators will change (lower) the load impedance his BAT VK5 preamp will see, and being tube it (the load) may come down too far for it to perform at it's optimum, and could roll of the bass early as it is capacitor coupled.

[url]http://www.stereophile.com/content/balanced-audio-technology-vk-5-preamplifier-vk-6075-power-amplifiers-vk-5-measurements[/url]

Cheers George

I just stumbled across this post in a Google search and have some of these same issues. My current set up is as follows:
Cambridge Azur 551p preamp (39 dB)
Pro-Ject Debut III
Ortofon Blue 2-M cartridge (5.5 mV)
Jolida FX-10 amp (670 mV input sensitivity)
Dali Zensor 1 speakers

My speakers are somewhat inefficient with my amp. I was looking into getting a Budgie preamp for my system which has a gain of 38 dB. However the owner Shannon suggested that I get the Budgie Hybrid which has gain of 46 dB. His reasoning is below:

- The 42dB gain recommendation comes from the following calculations. The Jolida needs 670mV of input voltage drive to hit 10W. The Ortofon 2M Blue puts out 5.5mV. So 670mV / 5.5mV = 122 times gain or 42dB gain. With only 38dB, the amp can only put out 4.5W as it runs out of voltage drive. As I said in the earlier email, if you feel that the current gain arrangement is OK, then the regular Budgie should be fine. It has very similar gain to your Cambridge Audio 551P (38dB vs 39dB).

- You wouldn't ever have a problem with too much gain with the Budgie Hybrid. I think the 46dB rating is a better nominal gain for a wide variety of carts (HOMC and MM).

I'm still worried that the Hybrid may be too much gain for what I have and the gain on my system with the Cambridge sounds fine to me (but what do I know, I'm not an electrical engineer!). Any insight or input would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks