Total System Gain Question


I am considering an amp with 25dB of gain and 575mV input sensitivity for rated minimum output, and considering a preamp with 18dB of gain. So total system gain would be 43dB. My speakers are 88dB efficient.

Is too much gain for a 2V line level DAC source? I don’t know what the input sensitivity of the preamp is. I worry I’ll be stuck in the bottom (non-linear) portion of the volume pot due to the total gain ...

I don’t have a feel for this since I’d been using an integrated amp forever.
greg7

Showing 1 response by mike_in_nc

The gain of the preamp is, I would expect, specified at maximum. So it will be less as you turn the volume down.

The gain of the power amp is typical of power amps I have used, as is the sensitivity of your speakers. I would think this would be fine.

Typically, home audio components have more gain than necessary in most situations. But if the units are quiet enough (most are) that is not a problem in the practical sense.