Using Schiit SYS

[papabearjew]

I would like to reduce the gain between my preamp and power amp to facilitate finer volume control at lower levels. I'm thinking of Schiit SYS. It also dawned on me I can simply use my Soundcraftsmen RP-2215R EQ that I've owned since new in the late 70's. It has gain controls. Any thoughts?
I hope everyone had a great holiday.
Thx

[MacGeek]

I take it the power amp does not have gain controls or adjustable input sensitivity.  The Soundcraftsman will work just fine.  However, adding anything to the signal chain may increase noise and/or distortion.

[papabearjew]

@MacGeek. Correct, my  power amp (Phase Linear 400) has no gain controls. Will it cause less distortion hooking it up through the tape monitor loop or between preamp and power amp. I would like to use the EQ part to bring out the voices a bit when watching tv or movies. There is a simple defeat button.

[Sir Thrift-a-Lot]

Most noise that may be introduced is likely to come at high frequencies that neither of us can still hear.   The one danger with the Soundcraftsman (IMHO) is that it has boost as well as cut.   Accidentally power up with the sliders at +12 db one day and nobody will be encouraged by the results.   Have bj wire you up a simple passive attenuator box or even just add in-line attenuators.

[Sir Thrift-a-Lot]

Actually, I just Googled that SYS and it is exactly what I was suggesting bj wire up for you.   I think that is the perfect solution.

[MacGeek]

PBJ-I run my EQs between the pre and power amps, vs in a tape loop.  I believe, at least with my gear, the noise and distortion floor may rise with increases in output voltage, but with lower overall distortion than when in a tape loop.  To STaLs point, keep the sliders in the flat position.  To touch up the voices, slight amounts of boost (1 or 2 db) around 700 to 1,00hz should do the trick.

[papabearjew]

MacGeek, that's the plan but I got a line on a used SYS at a good price from one of our members. It gives me more options. If I use the EQ in the living room I might use the SYS in the bedroom.

[MacGeek]

PBJ-Please let us know what you think.

[papabearjew]

MacGeek... I'll post my results

[Sir Thrift-a-Lot]

MacGeek, that's the plan but I got a line on a used SYS at a good price from one of our members. It gives me more options. If I use the EQ in the living room I might use the SYS in the bedroom.

Given the new price, I'm guessing a used price is quite favorable.   If you don't take it, I may be interested.

[papabearjew]

Thrifty, I took it.

[Sir Thrift-a-Lot]

Good.   I think it is a better solution than your EQ for reasons I already stated.

[papabearjew]

Bear in mind I used the EQ for years with no problem. I do know how to use it. The SYS is certainly a simpler solution regarding the volume issue.