2. amps-preamps
  3. 127530-71836

Different gain on 2 amps.

I never posted before. OK, here's the deal. I have a new VAC preamp that has no tape monitor output. Only outputs are after the volume control. I want to feed the output of the preamp into 2 separate amplifiers. One to feed my listening room speakers, and the other to feed a second power amp to drive some nice MB Quart speakers in my kitchen. I have done this before using the tape monitor out to a second preamp, then to the second amp and on to the kitchen. Separate volume controls, no sweat. 
Now I have a very nice VAC Phi 200 tube power amp for the listening room. Gain is 37 DB for Single  ended RCA's. The other amp for the kitchen is a solid state CJ amp with a gain of 27. So I connected these 2 amps to the 2 outputs from the VAC preamp. Everything works, except the volume in the listening room is way louder due to the difference in gain of the 2 amps.   As we all know, putting the signal into another preamp is no help.
2 questions:

1. Any ideas on how I can boost up the preamp output from the VAC preamp to the CJ power amp so as to equalize the volumes in both rooms? 

2. Anyone know a reasonably priced amp with a gain of 37 or close to that?  
BTW, I don't/can't just buy another VAC tube amp for the kitchen. Way too big, way too expensive. 
otto1234

Showing 3 responses by erik_squires

erik_squires
16,754 posts
 
I should have asked that. What IS your source anyway?

You would find a much easier time with a Roon enabled player or something that had nothing to do with your main pre-amp/amplifier. at all.

I use this kind of arrangement with Logitech Media Server. I can keep the music in sync in my living room and home office digitally.

Best,

Erik
erik_squires
16,754 posts
 
So I read up on your VAC amp. The gain is LESS via XLR, so if you can swap cables, you can reduce the output somewhat.

Best,

Erik

erik_squires
16,754 posts
 
The issue is more than gain of the amps, but also sensitivity of the speakers. :)

In typical audiophile fashion, you should get less sensitive speakers for your listening room. :D :D :D

One thing to watch out for though is tube preamps don't like to split their output. You could be doing your listening room a disservice by trying this.

Best,

Erik
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