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Problem with preamp volume control

I just obtained a Clear Audio Virtuoso Ebony v2 cartridge which I love dearly.  (I wrote about it in a separate post.)
The only problem with it is it has too high an output for my CJ PV 11 preamp.  It is very loud at between 9 and10 o’clock with very little tolerance for changing the level. A small turn brings a big result.
Is there any way of attenuating the preamp to accommodate this situation, so that I have more flexibility in controlling the volume?
Again, the cartridge sounds incredible otherwise.
rvpiano

Showing 3 responses by lewm

lewm
13,688 posts
 
Using the lowest gain setting on the amplifier may also have subtle benefits for SQ overall.  That is without a doubt the first thing to try, IMO.
lewm
13,688 posts
 
What Almarg said.  Or live with it.
lewm
13,688 posts
 
The important point of information would be what is the gain of your phono stage and what line stage are you using, if you have a separate line stage. It also would not hurt to say what amplifier and speakers you use. Are you hearing distortion? Audible distortion would be a sign that the cartridge is overloading the phono stage, but in its absence, then you likely have an issue with sorting out the gain of your various components and the sensitivity of your speakers. There is nothing really wrong about using a low setting point on your volume control. So long as you have no distortion related to overloading.
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