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Psychological effects of volume control

I just bought a new DAC and found the volume control on my preamp has to be boosted way beyond my normal settings in order for me to reach an acceptable level of sound.
Although there is no distortion or clipping in the amplifier, I somehow feel the sound is compromised even though objectively I know it is much better than before, as the DAC is far better quality than the old one. It’s just my reaction to boosting that volume control.
Does anyone else have this type of neurotic reaction to changes?
128x128rvpiano
czarivey
4,494 posts
 
mismatched component will not likely work in your setup so needs replacement.
you need to research input ranges of your amp and output ranges of DAC you're purchasing. i usually make sure that my source device is within middle of input ranges of my amp so it has headroom for quiet and loud music. not as complex as seems, but fairly simple.


rvpiano's avatar
rvpiano OP
938 posts
 
I think my problem is just getting used to the new parameters.
Instead of  “normal” being about 9 o’clock  on the dial, it’s now at 11.
Still far below the maximum volume setting.
gs5556
769 posts
 
Sounds like the old DAC had a higher output voltage. Generally, preamps see 2VAC (single ended) from sources but some CD players and DACs put out as much as 8 volts.


shadorne's avatar
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shadorne
7,333 posts
 
It is actually better that your preamp volume run between 11 o’clock and 3 o’clock.

You should always adjust the power amp input sensitivity to allow the volume knob to work in this optimal range (preserve signal to noise by keeping the signal level higher on your line level equipment)

All pro power amps allow the input sensitivity to be adjusted for this reason.


rvpiano's avatar
rvpiano OP
938 posts
 
Very interesting.

I feel foolish for my previous concerns.
The DAC is bringing everything wonderfully to life now that I’ve discovered the proper volume adjustment!
Much better in so many ways than the Theta I was using.
More to discover