preamp gain problem.


HI,im using Belles 350A ref,amp,just purchased a VTL. tube,preamp,noticed,need to set volume pass 12,oclock to get decent volume levels,my former preamp was SS,CJ,PFR, is this a problem? or is normal,I,just feel 250 watts amp lost have its'power,thanks in advance for any info;
juancgenao

Showing 1 response by phd

Belles amps are designed for preamps that have high gain to drive them. One only needs to look at the high gain (at least 20db) of the Belles preamps. However some people do prefer a preamp of lower gain where normal listening levels are around 12 oclock. This lowers signal to noise ratio and you never have to worry about clipping or over-driving the amp. I personally prefer this scenario because it sounds better to my ears.

Juancgenao, how much gain does the VTL pre have?