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Psychological effects of volume control

I just bought a new DAC and found the volume control on my preamp has to be boosted way beyond my normal settings in order for me to reach an acceptable level of sound.
Although there is no distortion or clipping in the amplifier, I somehow feel the sound is compromised even though objectively I know it is much better than before, as the DAC is far better quality than the old one. It’s just my reaction to boosting that volume control.
Does anyone else have this type of neurotic reaction to changes?
rvpiano

Showing 1 response by onhwy61

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onhwy61
5,300 posts
 
Volume controls (attenuators) are a fairly complex topic with several different implementation with each having adherents.  In general a volume control will work best at higher settings.

Check the the gain and sensitivity specs on the old and new D/A.
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