The statement "1 volt output line stage = 16db" is probably part of a gain specification, not a specification of maximum output voltage. The manual for the SLP98 at the Cary website indicates "Gain: 110 millivolt input = 1 volt output line stage = 20db." The website page on the SLP98 indicates "Output: Rated 2 volts, 12 volts maximum." The output level vs. distortion curve shown in this review indicates reasonable levels of distortion up to nearly 10 volts output, although distortion is lowest at around 0.5 volts.
There is no hard and fast rule. My bottom line suggestion would be to go with whatever sensitivity setting results in the volume control typically being used in the middle part of its range, say between the 10 o'clock and 2 o'clock positions (which will be dependent on your source component and speakers, as well as the preamp and power amp), and if both settings result in reasonable volume control positions go with whichever sounds best.
Regards,
-- Al
There is no hard and fast rule. My bottom line suggestion would be to go with whatever sensitivity setting results in the volume control typically being used in the middle part of its range, say between the 10 o'clock and 2 o'clock positions (which will be dependent on your source component and speakers, as well as the preamp and power amp), and if both settings result in reasonable volume control positions go with whichever sounds best.
Regards,
-- Al