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I need a loudness switch

I am by no means what I would consider a Audiophile, or a Engineer. 
 But I am fortunate enough to own some semi decent equipment.  I love music that gives me goosebumps. 
My CD playback is fine , as I don't really use it anyway. 
 But as with many others I lose substance at low volume with vinyl playback.
Dial set between 55 and 60 things come alive. But that is too loud for most sessions. 
 System is.
 VPI Classic table with a Soundsmith Carmen mkii cart.
Decware zp3 phono stage. 
Conrad Johnson et3 preamp
Conrad Johnson premier 140 amp.
 Proac Response D38 speakers.
 I would love to run the system around 35 to 45 setting , but to have a little authority. 
Does anyone have any suggestions?
 I was considering a Decware zbox that boosts the voltage. 
But with not being a Engineer.  I do not know what effects the 4 volt input will have on the cj gear.
Any input would be appreciated.  
Thank you,  Scott 
 
scottht

Showing 2 responses by mike_in_nc

mike_in_nc
1,166 posts
 
As noted by mijostyn, loudness compensation might be a good solution. The most noticeable effect of loudness compensation is to boost the bass at low volumes. The Schiit Loki is a 4-band, analog EQ that many audiophiles like. You might give one a try to see if a bass boost does the trick for youwhen you listen at low volumes. It’s only US$149.
mike_in_nc
1,166 posts
 
mijostyn: Yes, I’m aware that old loudness controls boosted both bass & treble, and that the F-M curves justify that.

I read many years ago that the treble boost is questionable. I can’t remember where I read that, so I can’t cite a source. I will say, my subjective experience is that boosting the bass provides most of the benefit. My preamp has a treble control, & I’ve never felt the need to boost treble as volume decreases.
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