Concerning the "4 o'clock" position on the volume knob, I think that we are talking that the knob is lower than 9 o'clock (8,7 or 6 o'clock, if your amplifier's knob goes there).
I can tell you that the Luxman gain/knob were enjoyable to use. They go smoothly and the sound is superb even at low volume. I must say that the speakers are there for something. I have a pair of Harbeth SHL5 which excels even at low volume.
Plus, there is the "bass phenomenon". You lost bass when the volume is lower. Luxman and Macintosh will both be great for this since they have their tone control. In my opinion, they are a plus on every amplifier. You can also use them for room correction.