Amplifier input tech question


In my current system the volume control can only be turned
up to the 9 o'clock position or so, until the music is too
loud. The components are as follows;

cd- Rotel RCD-990 (transport only)
PS Audio DLIII with Cullen stage 4 mods

pre- Parasound JC 2

amp- Aragon 8008st

spks- KEF reference model 3

I am just starting to do my research for upgrading the
amplifier. And, would like to make certain that I select
an amp or amps that are less sensitive than the Aragon.
I have read about the minimum 10 times impedance difference
between pre-out and amp-in. But there must be more to it,
as the JC 2 output imp is stated as < 60 ohms and the
Aragon is listed as 22k ohms. My guess is that there is also a relationship between the preamp output voltage
and the amout of voltage the amp needs for full output.
Is there a formula I can use for finding a good match?
ska_man

Showing 2 responses by amandarae

If I were you, check the type of volume pot you have on the preamp. If it is 250K, make it 100K. If it is 100K, make it 50K etc. For sure, you will increase the position of the volume knob without changing the output level. You have to look at the pot and determine how the voltage divider is implemented in relationship to the pot wiper.
It is cheaper and easier to do this than buying a preamp no?
Ahhh, I stand corrected. Buy an amp with a volume control in the input circuit then. Or have an amp with much less input impedance instead of the 22K.

Goodluck!