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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 vinyladdict

vinyladdict OP
164 posts
 
Thanks for the responses.

My gut feeling has been to keep it at the lower setting. The DL-160 sounds fantastic through the phono-stage. I'm extremely impressed with the cartridge and, especially, the quality of the RR2150's stage.
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