Using an amplifier with variable gain

Using both gain adjustments simply puts both potentiometers into the signal path. Running one wide open and using the other to regulate signal amplitude should theoretically lessen the chances for signal degradation. The one factor that i can think of that might alter this is if the input impedance of the amp it lower than what the preamp ( or source if going direct drive ) wants to see. In this case, reducing the gain on the amplifier may be beneficial, as it could raise the input impedance of the amp somewhat. How beneficial this would be would depend on the amount of gain available from the preamp or source, the impedance range of the gain adjustment on the amp and how that adjustment was implimented in the design of the amp. If using "standard design" SS gear, i would tend to think that running the amp wide open and varying the level of the preamp would provide the best results with less potential for a channel imbalance. Sean
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Inpep brings up some valid points that i overlooked. Kudo's to him for being on the ball.

The more signal that you pump into the amp, the less that line loss comes into play with the potential for a higher S/N ratio. You'll end up with both the preamp and amp potentiometers dialed at less than full gain this way, and depending on their quality and how well you can set channel balance, it could be better or worse. Try it both ways and see what you like best. This will be a system by system thing based on the individual design of the mating components, so nothing is set in stone. Sean
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