High gain vs low gain

[aoaaron]

Just a general question.

I have my atom, I love it. Really nice clean perfect sound when hooked up to my new D30.

Sadly for video games and some films, I could probably do with it being a bit louder. Than the highest setting in low gain at times (Aladdin film for example)

If I go into high gain, then I can get very very adequate / ear bleeding levels of euphoria.



My question is, are there any real audible differences between high and low gain? I have heard it increases the noise floor, but I really can't hear much or any difference when playing games low vs high gain so I was just wondering. I know scientifically there is a clear preference towards low gain but in real world application, is it neglible for the untrained ear?

As far as I know, films are mastered in 5.1 and designed to reach reference levels (0db) in order to sound their best whilst retaining dynamism. Also for films, I could use MPC HD's software amplification. I was wondering if software amplification is better or just going to high gain mode?





The truth is I'm still not sold on headphones for films at all. I think a solid 5.1 surround setup with a big subwoofer destroys most of them but in regards to music, headphones absolutely destroy speakers.

 

[twsecrest]

With whatever gain setting you use, it still takes the same amount of voltage, to get your headphones to a certain volume level.
If high gain setting (D30) does not add noise to the audio signal, then using high gain is fine.
I would suggest maxing out the volume controls on the audio source (Windows PC) to send the strongest signal possible, to the D30.

 

[daftcombo]

I would advise to stick to low gain and take care of yours ears. High gain is made for high impedance headphones, not for listening at punishing levels.

 

[RayDunzl]

headphones absolutely destroy speakers

Opinion: Nope.