Why does RNP (& others) not have output dial?

[Bodhisan]

I'm looking into new preamps, and what I've got, VC3Q and VTB1, both have input gains and output volumes. Does this mean the RNP's output volume is always at it's highest, and is controlled purely by the input gain? Any pros or cons to either set up?

[Farview]

The advantage of not having another control is not having another control. The disadvantage is that you can't run the pre into distortion and back the level off afterwards.

[Harvey Gerst]

Originally Posted by Bodhisan

I'm looking into new preamps, and what I've got, VC3Q and VTB1, both have input gains and output volumes. Does this mean the RNP's output volume is always at it's highest, and is controlled purely by the input gain? Any pros or cons to either set up?

Many times, dual mic preamps are used for two channel stereo recordings, where accurate tracking is vital. Using stepped switches assures the user of identical gain from each side of the stereo preamp.

[Ronan]

Originally Posted by Farview

The advantage of not having another control is not having another control. The disadvantage is that you can't run the pre into distortion and back the level off afterwards.

You could do this by inserting something with level control into the chain, such as a compressor with the threshold set really high. It might slightly color the sound a bit, but I guess if you are running the mic pres to distortion you are not too worried about coloring the signal.

[acorec]

Originally Posted by Harvey Gerst

Many times, dual mic preamps are used for two channel stereo recordings, where accurate tracking is vital. Using stepped switches assures the user of identical gain from each side of the stereo preamp.

It is also a technique used on all of the high end pre-amps. The reason is, as Harvey said, for accurate gain but another important reason is that potentiometers add more distortion than a fixed resistor and pots get dirty which degrades the signal as time goes on.

[ebeam]

Originally Posted by acorec

It is also a technique used on all of the high end pre-amps. The reason is, as Harvey said, for accurate gain but another important reason is that potentiometers add more distortion than a fixed resistor and pots get dirty which degrades the signal as time goes on.

I'm having trouble understanding how this (or Harvey's post) applies to his question.....I mean, you could always have a stepped attenuator for the output control as well....

[crazydoc]

Originally Posted by ebeam

...I mean, you could always have a stepped attenuator for the output control as well....

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