2. amps-preamps
  3. 1445705063

Primare PRE-32/A-32 combo lessened volume

Just saw a fresh comment sent by Al (almarg) in another thread in this (Amps Preamps) section...

I experience a similar problem, with strangely lessened volume in case of Primare combo PRE-32/A-32 (wired via XLR connections). In order to "come to life", it's necessary to turn the PRE-32's volume up to some 55-60 at least (out of 90, which is maximum). From this point on, volume increases fairly rapidly. I am pretty disappointed, even the sound itself while not spectacular emerges pretty clean and neutral.

Is it maybe some logarithmic nature of the volume pot the culprit?
zormi
zd542
5,339 posts
 
Is the Primare balanced? If so, you may need do something to switch it between balanced and SE operation. Also, you need to make sure your cables are balanced.
zormi OP
105 posts
 
Zd542. Thank you for your prompt reply.

Yes, both Primares have XLR input/output connectivity option. I don't know exactly whether it refers to true balanced design or not, but this should not affect the volume issue itself..

As I said in the initial post, I use balanced (XLR) connections - which naturally means I use balanced cable.
zd542
5,339 posts
 
"Yes, both Primares have XLR input/output connectivity option. I don't know exactly whether it refers to true balanced design or not, but this should not affect the volume issue itself.."

Yes it will. Fully balanced components will output at a different level than when run single ended.

"As I said in the initial post, I use balanced (XLR) connections - which naturally means I use balanced cable."

Not true. Having xlr connectors doesn't mean the cable is balanced. There's plenty of SE cables that have xlr connectors on them. For a cable to be balanced, it must have 3 separate conductors, or 2 conductors and a drain wire.
zormi OP
105 posts
 
I use brand new factory Audioquest both Columbia and Diamond XLR cables, 0,75/1 meter, respectively. Both models balanced, of course.

Should I blame Audioquest for declaring/selling cables balanced while making it another way?!
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