2. analog
  3. 1189109411

Outlaw RR2150 Phono Gain w/ DL-160 - 40db or 55db?

The phono section on my Outlaw RR2150 amp will allow me to increase the gain from around 40db to 55db at 47k-ohms. Either of which is appropriate for the DL-160.

When I've got it at 40db I have to increase the volume knob from around 8:00 to 11:00 to get the same relative volume compared to a cd; at 55db the volumes are close at 8:00 but the phono section seems to actually be a bit louder. Noise (hiss) through the amp in phono-mode is virtually none existent in either mode unless I crank the volume to 3:00 or so (with nothing playing, of course).

Are there any advantages or disadvantages to either scenario, more or less gain in the phono section? It doesn't bother me to have to turn the volume knob up more in phono mode.

BTW, the DL-160 seems about as loud as the prior at440mla I was running. Surprising since the outputs are so different.
vinyladdict

Showing 1 response by johnnyb53

johnnyb53
3,510 posts
 
BTW, the DL-160 seems about as loud as the prior at440mla I was running. Surprising since the outputs are so different.
I had the same experience. When I switched from the 4mV output Shure M97xE to the DL160, I expected to have to goose the volume knob for the same perceived volume, but to my surprise didn't have to at all.

In fact, although the average volume seems about the same between the two carts, volume peaks sound better with the Denon. I guess that could be a number of things -- better trackability, MC design, better quality overall, more headroom for the phono section?

I don't know, but I like it.
More to discover