Thanks, but I really didn't need to see that...

I'm just getting over seeing this earlier while looking at used gear...

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Thanks, but I really didn't need to see that...


That's backwards.The OP keeps his master up and works the gain for volume because he likes it clean.
That said, from what I can tell, the OP is actually kinda smart.![]()
That's backwards.
Keeping the master vol at a high setting corresponds with the input gain being at a lower setting to reach a given volume level, so what he said is true...it's going to be cleaner that way than the "gain higher/master volume lower" configuration.
Tell me what you think the purpose of the gain knob is, please.Keeping the master vol at a high setting corresponds with the input gain being at a lower setting to reach a given volume level, so what he said is true...it's going to be cleaner that way than the "gain higher/master volume lower" configuration.
Poster: I think it was wise for the carpenter to choose a heavier hammer since he'll be driving large spikes all day.Assuming you don't crank the input gain into overload in the latter case, the first way will typically have lower distortion but a worse signal/noise ratio. So it depends on your definition of "clean."![]()

We can get into technicals and theoreticals all day...Tell me what you think the purpose of the gain knob is, please.
Poster: I think it was wise for the carpenter to choose a heavier hammer since he'll be driving large spikes all day.
@Passinwind: ASSUMING he doesn't bludgen himself in the head with it which will result in a severe concussion...
![]()
What's the best waffle headed framing hammer for Metalz, my man? I know you like it BIG, but how big?![]()
Tell me what you think the purpose of the gain knob is, please.
Ignoring for the moment @Passinwind 's point about optimizing signal-to-noise ratio with gain adjustment and focusing only on "clean" as meaning "not distorting audibly:"
I think the purpose of the gain knob is to adjust the gain level at the amp's input, thus affecting subsequent amplification stages in the preamp AND power amp. Keep raising that control, early in the signal path as it is, and you will begin to introduce audible distortion at one or more subsequent points along the signal path. Even at fairly low volume levels, if the master volume (or power amp sensitivity control) is set low.
Whereas the master volume is affecting power amp sensitivity, but not circuitry upstream of the power amp. So setting that high, or wide open, allows reaching comparatively higher volume levels (without introducing distortion upstream of the power amp), by introducing less gain early in the signal path.
Does that differ from your understanding of what gain knobs and master volumes do? If so, how?
I am questioning how that works for him. It sound contradictory to factors that have worked out for me.We can get into technicals and theoreticals all day...
or we can assume the guy is also considering the other factors and has that worked out.
Geeezz...
And, no need to be rude.
My sincere sympathies.