I note the following from the manual of my Wadia 121, which uses digital VC:
"Best performance is obtained when operating the Wadia 121Decoding Computer Volume Control near the top of its range. If needed, the maximum output level of your Wadia 121Decoding Computer can be adjusted to match the overall sensitivity of your system so that critical listening will take place with the volume control operating near the top of its range. Critical listening should be done when the 4th or higher LED is lit. The maximum out level of the Wadia 121Decoding Computer is adjustable by means of a series of IR commands issued from the Wadia remote control. The Wadia 121Decoding Computer output level is factory set to accommodate the most common range of system sensitivity. If you find that your typical volume level during critical listening is below the 3rd LED on the LED display, it will be advantageous to use a different setting."
The output levels can be adjusted to 4.0v, 2.0v, and1.0v.
This seems to support Steve's statement that "even the best S/W DSP volume controls seem to cause audible artifacts at more than about -9dB of volume reduction." I wonder how he feels about Wadia's approach to allow the user to adjust the output voltage. Since my understanding of electronics is so poor, I won't pretend I understand all of this.
"Best performance is obtained when operating the Wadia 121Decoding Computer Volume Control near the top of its range. If needed, the maximum output level of your Wadia 121Decoding Computer can be adjusted to match the overall sensitivity of your system so that critical listening will take place with the volume control operating near the top of its range. Critical listening should be done when the 4th or higher LED is lit. The maximum out level of the Wadia 121Decoding Computer is adjustable by means of a series of IR commands issued from the Wadia remote control. The Wadia 121Decoding Computer output level is factory set to accommodate the most common range of system sensitivity. If you find that your typical volume level during critical listening is below the 3rd LED on the LED display, it will be advantageous to use a different setting."
The output levels can be adjusted to 4.0v, 2.0v, and1.0v.
This seems to support Steve's statement that "even the best S/W DSP volume controls seem to cause audible artifacts at more than about -9dB of volume reduction." I wonder how he feels about Wadia's approach to allow the user to adjust the output voltage. Since my understanding of electronics is so poor, I won't pretend I understand all of this.