Volume level of ARC Ref 5 seems very high

Amuseb,
Nice speakers! I`d really like to hear those hornings one day. These speakers are quite efficient and you have more system gain than you require.

I had this problem initially (my speakers are 94 db at 8 ohms)with my linestage having 20 db of gain.Could`nt go pass 10 oclock volume setting for most recordings(too loud). I had the builder lower the gain to 10 db and things have been fabulous since(ultra low noise floor).Lowering the gain in your ARC preamp will solve your problem.
Regards,

Hi,
There is a misunderstanding here. The Horning need a hi-end system. Aresearch/Jadis is for speakers muffled, that need to be scratched to put some detail on the outside, like Wilson.

The Horning are a must

Has anyone checked out the in-line attenuators in the link posted by doggiehowser?

I've just ordered a set :) Will let you know how it goes.