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Volume control upgrades-

I have been into this hobby for over 25 years. I just completed my 3rd volume control upgrade on a preamp and was reminded just how much of a huge upgrade it is. By far, I feel the most significant upgrade one can do, regardless of cost.

This time I used a Goldpoint attenuator, which cost $150. I added a Bent Audio remote control system for $200. Labor was $200. Just incredible. The preamp had a standard $5 volume pot in it. In the past I have used TKD stepped controls.

I am now at the point that this change is an essential one.
Thought I'd share with others as it really is a low cost upgrade.
128x128justlisten
7 responses Add your response
jeffjeremy
2 posts
 
Thks to all for the direction, this has been extremely informative. Goldpoint will definitely provide the options for what I need...
justlisten's avatar
justlisten OP
489 posts
 
Jeff

When choosing a replacement, I believe you typically match it with the impedance of your power amp. If you google Goldpoint they have some good info. A rule of thumb is tube amps , 100k or 50k. Solid state amp, 5k, to 25k.

To address Syntax's point of RCA jacks, I have found most of the preamps I have used, have used a fairly decent grade of RCA jacks as OEM. Those same preamps, however have used at best maybe a $15 Alps pot.
csontos
1,311 posts
 
Why not go all the way and just get a Lightspeed Attenuator?
syntax's avatar
syntax
2,193 posts
 
Yes, Poti is essential, the signal goes through it. Normally the signal looses a lot of its quality based on cheap design (material ---> signal transfer ability) But before, it will reach the Preamp via its $6,95 RCA connectors. To replace these is even more important with High quality units (Eichmann Phono Pods for example) ....
rgs92
974 posts
 
I replaced my DACT 23-stepper with a TKD 2500 continuous attenuator and love it. I did this because I could not get a precise enough level with the stepped DACT, but I am pleasantly surprised at the resolution, solid bass, and more organic less piercing lower treble (but still pristine upper highs) of the TKD.
Just sharing my experience.
jeffjeremy
2 posts
 
Would anyone care to recommend a dual volume attenuators upgrade for a first generation "Audible Illusions Modulus Tube Preamplifier with MM Phono Section". I know this would definitely be a very good simple upgrade for this wonderful hybrid early generation preamp...

Just need the nomenclature/design elements of the parts I need, my knowledge in this area is nonexistent. But the setup I will be useing could benefit quite alot from this type upgrade as I understand.

Thks Jeff
PS I will not hold any recommendations against the overall success of this project.
ivan_nosnibor's avatar
ivan_nosnibor
1,047 posts
 
Using a pair of Goldpoint SMD (balanced) attenuators installed directly at the backs of a couple of Monarchy SM-70 Pro's...performance-wise, I haven't since even thought of ever buying another preamp, no way...AND it's a fraction of the cost.
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