class d

IMO, there should be no issues with matching a preamplifier and amplifier from the same manufacturer. If there are issues, then something's wrong.

Jimmy3993, the small usable range of volume control on your preamp is a function of gain matching rather than impedance matching, IMO. Your preamp appears to have too much gain for your amps.

Tvad -
Thanks! New to all of this...
Is there somewhere I can go to reaserch the gain of different pre amps?

Is there somewhere I can go to reaserch the gain of different pre amps?
Jimmy3993 (System | Threads | Answers)

Output gain on preamp (as well as input gain on an amp) is a specification that's stated by manufacturers 99% of the time in the product literature or on the manufacturer's website.

FWIW, IMO most preamps have way more gain than necessary. 10-12dB is usually sufficient with the majority of amps.

Jimmy3993, yes the amp will contribute to staging, like every other component. . . you'll see in a couple of weeks. I suggest you call Nuforce about the problem you are experiencing with the P9. I have tried 2 different pres with the NuForce Ref 9 SE: ARC Ref 3 and JRDG Capri. They both have no impedance nor gain matching problems with the NuForce. I personally prefer the Capri because of its frequency extension and linearity, but many will prefer the Ref 3 for its slightly greater warmth.

Thanks again. I talked to nuforce. Part of the issue is fixable, part is intentional. There is a jumper that I can close to cut the gain in half. But in their literature they talk about the gain being linear as opposed to other pre designs where the volume is more gradual. For me it comes down to a question of usability. I really like the ht pass, the extra pre out for my sub and the "cleanness" of the sound but I need more volume flexibility.