Using an amplifier with variable gain


I have an AudioSource Amp Two (80 wpc) that has variable output. I've had it for the last 5 or 6 years. Anyway, I've always put the gain at maximum. So, I control the volume using my preamp, but I can't turn the volume knob much past 2. Today, I was thinking about it, and I decided to turn down the gain on the amplifier to about 50%, and then turn up the volume on the preamp by a corresponding amount. My question is which situation should give the best result, in terms of sound quality? It' not easy for me to tell by ear, as I'm sure most of you would recommend to just listen. Is there any theoretical reason why one setup is better than other? Any advice is much appreciated.
ezamir

Showing 1 response by inpepinnovations1e75

You should do as much amplification as possible before the power amp for higest signal to noise ratio, especially if the power amp is a good distance from the pre-amp. Set the power amp gain to the lowest necesary to get the volume you want from the pre-amp, without driving the preamp into distortion. Your setting at 50% is probably OK. What is the position of the volume on the preamp now?

Bob P.