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Resistor value for interconnect

My system consist of Audiolab 8000A ( as pre amp) , Power Amp (pass labs Aleph 3) and CD player ( Marantz CD63se KI ). When the volume turned to 11oclock position the sound level is not what I would call loud, But when fed directly from the CD player It sound more dynamics and goes louder. I'm afraid that it might cause damage to the speakers or amp if running this configuration? As I recall reading stereophile the reviewer Muse Kastanovich did solder resistor to the interconnect when he review the power amp, when fed directly from the CD source, but he didn't mention the value of the resistor? I need help ( resistor value) from owners who have try this or any professional help is greatly appreciated. As I'm thinking of bypass the pre-amp and directly fed the CD player to power amp. Thanks
xenofex
mrowlands
54 posts
 
I'm not sure what a "KI" is, but a stock CD63SE has a built in "volume control" (accessible via remote only). If your unit still has this, you should be okay as long as the input impedance of the amp is over about 20k. The only problem with this is that after the CD63SE is turned off, if I'm not mistaken, it comes back on at full volume. Also, it may start playing any CD that's in it. This might not be healthy for the speakers! Also, the SE's attenuater isn't too great sounding below about 50%. The manual states that the output impedance of a stock SE is 200 ohms, with a full scale output of 2 V RMS.
audiopath
92 posts
 
Yo Xeno, This is a bad idea!!! Two suggestions. First, if you are intent upon a passive volume control, try the Sweet Wispers at Electronic Tonalities.
You can find it at:

http://www.bottlehead.com/et/adobespc/sweet%20whispers.pdf

Wellborn Labs also has a kit that is much better and much more expensive. Look at:

http://www.welbornelabs.com/attns.htm

for more info.

A much better idea would be to sell the CD63SE and the Audiolab 8000A. Then buy a nice used Theta Miles for about a grand or a used Wadia 830 for about two grand. Both have volume controls on the remote and will drive a power amp directly. The results will be much better than screwing around with passive volume controls and that 5 year old Marantz.
fbi
92 posts
 
~~~~Professional help is worth a try. Didn't do a thing for me. A waste of $50/hr. Spent a little less than that on my Father's Day present to myself. Nora Jones CD-" Come away with me" The late Eva Cassidy's CD's-Songbird and Live at Blues Alley. Now that's what I call Professional help! Hope this helps somehow.

Just The Facts

By
gregm
3,021 posts
 
I strongly second Audiopath's suggestions. I can also add that results will not only be better but SAFER! If Theta or Wadia are not to your liking, other choices abound... Cheers
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