2. amps-preamps
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how to use gain control on a preamp

Maybe a silly question, but I just got a Magus preamp, paired it with a Belles 150a SS power amp and find it a bit bright with my speakers. Fellow who sold me the Magus said keep the right and left gain controls wide open. This doesn't work--too harsh in the highs. So I pull back on the gain and it keeps the detail, but where is the optimum?

I feel like I could fiddle back and forth with the 3 controls for quite a while before tame this beast. There are also gain controls on the speakers which has always been a problem figuring out. I try to keep that sort of in the middle (30 yr old Chicago Speakerworks 2-ways). Of course I should put some carpet on the wood floor and drapes up to calm things down too.

Well just wondering if there is some sensible process to follow so I don't wander around in the gain control wilderness.
lynnc
dill
815 posts
 
If memory serves, I set the left/right gain so that the normal listening range of the volume knob falls in the 10:00 to 2:00 position.
cyclonicman
693 posts
 
Is this a brand new preamp?
philjolet's avatar
philjolet
2,262 posts
 
I read an article several years ago that said pre amps were optimized to play with the volume set at 12 noon. this was not regarding signal to noise ratio but another variable regarding circuitry. sorry I do not have specifics
sidssp
1,077 posts
 
Changing a preamp's gain control often changes its output impedance, distortion spectrum, S/N ratio, and linearity. Each preamp design is different, you really need to experiment with it to find the position that you like best.
lynnc OP
6 posts
 
Sidssp I suspected it was kind of complicated interaction. I can experiment, but I'm glad to hear you all indicate that wide open is not preferred. You hear so many things around audio equipment it is nice to have this forum to gather some need perspective.

The pre amp was from a dealer and the Belles was off Audiogon recently.

I suppose it depends on the music too, so it is nice to have some control. I just have to get a handle on what I'm doing with it.

thanks much
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