Maximize HP Amp increase noise floor?

[Eddie_Vanjovi]

If you have an independent DAC and HP amp, where you put the maximum output (crank the volume) on the HP amp and then limit the signal into the HP amp from the DAC, are you effectively adding the maximum noise floor of the HP amp to the noise coming from the DAC line-out? Be nice to have a oscilloscope on hand to test.

 

[DVDdoug]

Usually, the volume control on a headphone amp (or power amp) is on the input so any noise generated by the amp remains constant.

Of course, the signal-to-noise ratio gets worse when you turn-down the signal but if the noise is inaudible it remains inaudible.

On the other hand, any noise from the source gets turned-down when you turn down the volume.

Generally, you want a strong signal through the chain (as long as there isn't clipping), and then turn it down near the end.

 

[Eddie_Vanjovi]

Thank you kindly good sir.