2. amps-preamps
  3. 163392-17107

AR LS17SE Volume Control

I picked up a used AR LS17SE preamp last fall.   In general I’m quite pleased with it.   It is my first exposure to the AR sound.  
What stands out to me is the limited volume control range.   When I was researching a preamp for my needs this seemed to be the exact fit I was looking for.   It is specified as having 102 detents on the volume control which seemed like a good range of sensitivity to me.  
What I find is it is only 6-8 clicks on the volume control from lowest/no volume to maximum tolerable volume which, to me, is quite disappointing for such a garnered piece/brand.  Especially with the 102 detent reference.  
Am I missing something?
pinball101

Showing 3 responses by pinball101

pinball101 OP
57 posts
 
Speakers are Dynaudio S1.4LE at 85db sensitivity.  So not the speakers.  

The amp is an Edge M8m at 30,000 ohms input impedance single ended only.  

The LS17SE is 350 ohms output impedance single ended. 

That is an 85:1 ratio.  Impedance matching was a large factor in pursuing the LS17SE.  I had plugged the Edge into my Aesthetix Calypso (single ended 1000 ohms output impedance) and the volume was noticeably low.  Really had to crank up the Calypso to approach a listenable volume which I interpreted as a poor match at 30:1 ratio.  

What usable percentage of the volume range do others experience on their LS17 or LS17SE?


pinball101 OP
57 posts
 
John,

I shared the same concern as you experienced regarding the sonic signature they would introduce to the system.  Everything has an influence and I can't imagine a simple device such as this being very positive sonically.  

My next step is probably to contact the original designer(s)/maker(s) of the Edge amp and find out the input sensitivity.  I can also plug it into my other system and see how what the volume range is there.  

I was hoping this would be a simple response from other LS17 owners. 

Mike
pinball101 OP
57 posts
 
George,

Thanks for the suggestion.  Unfortunately the NAD M51 left last year.  Otherwise that would be a great choice.  

I did consider passive preamps when I found the LS17SE but I wasn't dialed into the gain balance concern. That explains a lot.  

Mike



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