2. headphones
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Sound difference between High\Low Gain Setting when volume matched?

In a Dac+Amp that has more that one gain setting (that is switchable) - will it simply produce the exact same sound but with a different amount of amplification, or could there be actual differences in sound when volume is exactly matched?

The specific device in Topping DX3 Pro+ I got for my nephew.

Thanks!

mamac
maxwave's avatar
maxwave
901 posts
 

I would guess that the sound quality is the same.

you choose the gain acording to the headphones or speakers ( easy or not to drive ) used and the output of the source.

 

soix
8,651 posts
 

I’d suggest trying the lower output first to see if it’s sufficient to drive the headphones.  I slightly prefer the lower output setting on my Singxer SA-1 with my Hifiman Arya Stealth ‘phones.  Using a higher gain setting with sensitive headphones can result in unwanted noise or hiss. 

maxwave's avatar
maxwave
901 posts
 

The lower output gives you more volume control.  Which is fine.

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