2. amps-preamps
  3. 1357170035

Volume level of ARC Ref 5 seems very high

Hi,

I have a Ref 5 feeding Jadis JA100 monos into HH Eufrodites.
Already at very low volume setting levels, the sound is high.
For example, at volume setting 3, the sound level is ~65 db, at about 3 meters from the speakers and my listening room is big.
It doesn't bother me, I just wonder if I get the best out of the preamp at this low volume setting.

Thanks for your thoughts.
amuseb
newbee
4,767 posts
 
I used Rothwells on my SP10 going into a Mesa Baron. The Mesa worked best with low gain and the Rothwell 10db did the job without noticible side effects. If your line section is quiet enuf you can use the Rothwells between the source and the pre-amp as well, or in the tape loop. Personally I like it between the amp and pre-amp.
swampwalker's avatar
swampwalker
5,138 posts
 
I've used the Rothwells many times. Maybe a good idea to give them a shot and then if it solves the overall problem, you can look further into having ARC lower the overall gain on the pre.
160562
23 posts
 
«The Mesa worked best with low gain and the Rothwell 10db did the job without noticible side effects» Yes, with no apparent damage. This is no serious hi-fi. Is a passive fixed pré. Two pré in the same signal line...
newbee
4,767 posts
 
160562. HUH?

Not serious Hifi? Pray tell what exactly is 'serious HiFi'?

Two pre's - BS. The Rothwell is a simple resistor put in the signal path with lots of others. Nothing more or less.

You sound like someone advocating spending mucho bucks to solve, what for many would be, an adequate and inexpensive fix.
hifigeek1
770 posts
 
Newbee, there is no simple answer. For example, in my situation I would prefer a unity gain i.e. 0 gain remote controlled device as my audio and video system are one in the same and I can't use my ARC SP3C. I refuse to get up to change the gain or mute the preamp every time I change channels. I don't feel like building one either.
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