Topic: Optimal Volume Level with ADI-2 DAC
I am using the ADI-2 DAC to feed a single-ended tube amp (Unison Research Sinfonia). The input signals comes from Raspberry Pi (LMS/squezzelite) through SPDIF COAX.
By now I have followed the principle that volume should not be digitally reduced for all the discussed reasons ....
Therefore I am using an In-Line Attenuator at -24 db (www.funk-tonstudiotechnik.de/DKS-rt-sw-1.jpg) which allows me to put the volume knob on my amp between 9 and 10 o'clock.
Parameters of ADI-2 DAC are at:
HW Ref Lev = +7 dBu
Vol = 0 dB
Understanding the concept of Digital Volume Control I do understand that one paradigm might be over.
Actually, I put the knob of the amp to 1 pm and do all volume control through the DAC.
Practically, I am not hearing any difference.
Is this a reasonable approach? Should I contiune to use the attenuators?
What is the best rational for determing the "fixed" volume level of the amp?
Is there a lowest volume level for this DAC w/o loosing "data"?