Question about low volume dynamics

M

Mechnutt

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Here's a question for the audio guru's. I bought a BAT Vk-51se preamp to use with my Pass X250 amp. The X250 amp sounds great at low volumes with my Pass X1 preamp and my Van Alstine preamp. The BAT is a very dynamic preamp at medium and low volumes and is not nearly as satisfying as the other 2 preamps at lower volumes.

I am use the BAT with XLR cables to my amp but I am using a single ended cable with an XLR adapter from my DAC to the BAT. I know that there is a 6db drop from the DAC to the Preamp. Is this contributing to the loss of dynamics at low volumes or is that just going to be the character of the BAT? I love the sound of the BAT but the low volume dynamics are very disappointing.

Eventually, I will be upgrading my DAC to an XLR DAC. I was using my DAC single ended into the Pass X1 preamp as it has both XLR and single ended. I never noticed a drop off in volume with the Pass but I certainly have to turn up the volume on the BAT.

Thanks,

Larry
 
Yes, I agree about the gain difference but is that going to account for the low volume dynamics if the overall volume is the same?

If it is only about the gain, then going all XLR will fix the problem with the 6db increase when I go with a full XLR cable from my DAC to the preamp.

I think that impedance mismatch must play a roll as well.
 
I fixed the problem with a different pair of tubes. I rolled in a pair of Tung Sol Black Plates from the 1950's. They are more dynamic and airy sounding at low volumes.
 
Is your room treated? Before room treatment, low volume listening was totally flat & 2 dimensional. Now I enjoy listening at any volume level.
 
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