My ET5 does not seem to have enough volume steps on the low end ...

[joeinid]

Late at night I like to play music low and I've noticed even from step 0 to step 1 on the volume scale of my ET5 can be too loud at times. Also, it does not seem there is a linear progression of volume steps as I step through the scale. Sometimes when I change the volume going down, I don't perceive as much volume change as when I go up the scale. Any ideas?

[jdandy]

Joe.......This has always been an issue with stepped attenuators. The only way around it is to have a custom built attenuator specific to your volume needs.....$$$.

[Face]

I'd contact CJ, it may be as simple as a resistor swap in the pre or amp.

[joeinid]

Thanks Dan!

I guess I could always use the variable output of my MCD1100 to compensate. At that point, it's just background music.

[joeinid]

Originally Posted by Face

I'd contact CJ, it may be as simple as a resistor swap in the pre or amp.

Thanks Mike, I'll call them and see what's up.

[Puma Cat]

Originally Posted by Face

I'd contact CJ, it may be as simple as a resistor swap in the pre or amp.

That might be more complex than one might think. The volume attenuators in C-J preamps are microprocessor controlled relays that select from a network of precision, low noise, metal foil film resistors...might be more difficult to get into than one might think.

I would just leave things alone.

Also, if you mod your preamp, the resale value will drop.

[joeinid]

Originally Posted by Puma Cat

That might be more complex than one might think. The volume attenuators in C-J preamps are microprocessor controlled relays that select from a network of precision, low noise, metal foil film resistors...might be more difficult to get into than one might think.

I would just leave things alone.

Also, if you mod your preamp, the resale value will drop.

I would never do that, but will call CJ.

[Rayooo]

Originally Posted by joeinid

Late at night I like to play music low and I've noticed even from step 0 to step 1 on the volume scale of my ET5 can be too loud at times. Also, it does not seem there is a linear progression of volume steps as I step through the scale. Sometimes when I change the volume going down, I don't perceive as much volume change as when I go up the scale. Any ideas?

Hummmm, very interesting.

Just as a point of reference, 85% of my listening is between 10 and 25 on the ET-5 readout. I run digital input from W4S-DAC-2 fixed at max output.
I also occasional run BDP-95, which generally speaking seems to have roughly same level out as the W4S, meaning the 10-25 setting still applies.

In my case, can't say I ever listen down below 10 as that is very quiet down there.

The Maggie 3.7s probably help in my case being so inefficient.
Do your power amps have any input level controls?

There are high-quality in-line attenuators available, in the past with another system I used a set of 10DB attenuators from Rothwell Audio Products. If you would like to experiment just shoot me a note and I'll send'em to you.

[turntable]

Hi Joe

I think the cj unity gain is sround 64 or something on the volume. the steps are .7db. You have around 44db of attenuation.

You need to check the total gain of your system. I believe your Klips and Nola's are high gain. not sure about the Burmester. the cj is quite high gain.

Add that to the high CD output and you probably have a LOT of gain in your system. Does the CD have variable output?

I do not think cj can do anything without affecting sound quality. I have asked them in the past. If you use ARC pre amp - each different gain has a different sound :-(

hence the struggle on the vol control.

[goone]

Rayoo,
I have a question regarding the Oppo 95 and your W4S DAC 2, are you using your Oppo as a transport going to your W4S? how is the sound with the oppo connect to the dac?
I am looking to get a dac for my oppo 95 I like the oppo sound but want to take it up to another level especially dynamic, soundstage and more bass.
Thanks in advance