gochurchgo ,
Remote volume, and remote balance, from listening position, is the goal.
I don't have a general need, happily my listening room has identical side walls ...
It has to do with intentional use of a balance control on specific tracks.
A very slight balance adjustment can make a surprisingly large improvement to certain tracks. Especially compilation's when many engineers have been involved.
Previously, I used the individual channel volume controls, i.e. Mono Blocks, i.e. McIntosh 2250. Or, if thru McIntosh preamp to amp (McIntosh SS C28 preamp prior, mx110z tubes now). That, however, meant several trips to/fm chair/preamp until 'right', then starting the track over, then back to normal for next track. Too much involvement with equipment for enjoyment.
I now use my Chase Remote Line Controller from my chair. You hear it as you make the adjustment, often very minor.
https://www.ebay.com/itm/CHASE-TECNOLOGIES-RLC-1-REMOTE-LINE-CONTROLLER-Complete-In-Original-Box/123978156682?hash=item1cddac8a8a:g:0CsAAOSwUHld0Ht4
As it says, absolutely no noise, Cannot tell if it is in or not in the loop. I just want to simplify things if I can. It is from the early era of quad/surround, has two identical outputs 'front' and 'rear'. When I compare different amps, I use that feature.
I did not realize the Cayin A88T did not have fundamental level controls anywhere when I bought it. I don't understand an Integrated Amp not having level/balance controls, physical or remote. And of course, the McIntosh preamp trim controls to adjust the inputs to each other is nice.
Current Cayin has internal bias control, I am hoping to get external bias control if I switch. I knew that, but for 16 ohm taps, m1 only, internal bias only.
Elliott