Help with increasing gain on pre amp or options?

Thanks for comments so far, however, I just installed a high-gain mod from Audio Research (2 resistors lift the output from 12 to 18 db) and it's still not enough.
It changes from disc to disc, but on most discs I can't get more than about 88db (at the desired 14' listening position') from my Mag 3.6's. The amps don't sound particularly strained, so I'm assuming more volume is possible given more volts on the inputs.
What concerns me is that looking at Cary's preamps as a possible 'synergistic' option, they range in gain from only 17db to 20db, which I don't beleive will be enough, based on what I've just seen going from 12 to 18db.

I'm using balanced outs from the LS15, although they are quite long at 20'. I would estimate based on the step from 12-18db, that I need about 25db gain to get the volume up without having the volume pot fully clockwise.
My front end is Audio Alchemy DDS Pro Transport into AA Dti Pro 32 into MF A3/24 upsampling DAC.
I don't know if there is any way to lift the output from the Dti or the MF?
I really don't want to ditch the LS15, but ARC are saying that any additional increase in gain would result in excessive noise and degraded sound quality.

Can anyone suggest an option that doesn't involve ditching equipment, if not, please recommend a pre with balanced outputs that has 25+db of gain.

Many thanks

Rooze

What is the output of you CDP? maybe it is time or an excuse to upgrade that and get the gain increase you need.

I have a Gamut CD1R and it has a 4 volt gain and I'm actually looking to reduce my gain because it is too much for my high sensitivity amplifier inputs.

One note of caution regarding preamps that provide two different gain settings. Sometimes, selecting the higher gain option can also increase the distortion to unacceptable noise levels.

-IMO

On my ARC pre (SP-9), there was a trace to cut on the PCB that would change (reduce) the gain. Maybe it was cut on yours.

It may be an issue of voltage sensitivity instead of gain.

The LS15 was sold offering two different gain choices at time of purchase. You should contact Audio Research and give them the serial number and they should be able to tell you which version you have.

If your cdp and the Cary have the outputs, switch to XLR which typically carry an additional 2volts over single-ended connections.

Given the right right mix of things, those additional 2 volts could grant you your wish.

-IMO

The gain of either the preamp or the power amp could be easily increased slightly by trivial circuit changes. Why not consult with the manufacturers?