RME ADI-2 DAC FS gain staging question.

[Bacchusoo7]

I'm using my RME ADI-2 DAC FS as the audio output of my Mac (through USB) into a pair of Rokit 5 G3 monitors. In between, I'm using a Mackie Big Knob passive volume control. The problem I'm running into is that at -3.5db output (+13 dbf Auto) on the RME to Big Knob to full power on the monitors the Big Knob ends up in the lower end of it's range (lower 15%) which has channel imbalance issues at that point. So I want my normal listening volume to sit with the Big Knob at about 25-50% so I have to turn something down. Is it better to lower the output of the RME or of the Rokits? What is the best way to accomplish what I'm looking for with the least amount of audio degradation?

I hope this makes sense, let me know if it isn't clear.

Thank you.

 

[Bacchusoo7]

Nobody? Bummer.

Okay, I guess I'll ask ChatGPT. ha

 

[Chazz6]

If you read the manual for the RME ADI-2 FS, it makes an extended argument that you can turn its volume dial way down (-30 and lower) without raising the noise-to-signal ratio. And that is what I do.

 

[amper42]

I'm using my RME ADI-2 DAC FS as the audio output of my Mac (through USB) into a pair of Rokit 5 G3 monitors. In between, I'm using a Mackie Big Knob passive volume control. The problem I'm running into is that at -3.5db output (+13 dbf Auto) on the RME to Big Knob to full power on the monitors the Big Knob ends up in the lower end of it's range (lower 15%) which has channel imbalance issues at that point. So I want my normal listening volume to sit with the Big Knob at about 25-50% so I have to turn something down. Is it better to lower the output of the RME or of the Rokits? What is the best way to accomplish what I'm looking for with the least amount of audio degradation?

I hope this makes sense, let me know if it isn't clear.

Thank you.

In my opinion, it's a good idea to use the RME remote for volume. No need for a big knob in the chain. I set up RPI-5 with Moode to play music thru USB on RME ADI-2 DAC FS. It's setup without volume control so the RME Remote handles all volume settings.

 

[Bacchusoo7]

If you read the manual for the RME ADI-2 FS, it makes an extended argument that you can turn its volume dial way down (-30 and lower) without raising the noise-to-signal ratio. And that is what I do.

Thank you. I did read a couple of years ago when I first got the unit, but haven't review it recently. That does answer my noise floor question.

In my opinion, it's a good idea to use the RME remote for volume. No need for a big knob in the chain. I set up RPI-5 with Moode to play music thru USB on RME ADI-2 DAC FS. It's setup without volume control so the RME Remote handles all volume settings.

Strictly speaking the Big Knob is unnecessary, however I like the mono/dim/mute functions, also another source that I sometimes switch between. Lastly, I like the tactile feel of it.

As far as the remote goes, the unit is at my desk, within easy arm's length so the remote hasn't really gotten much (any) use.

 

[Hemi-Demon]

The RME has one of the better pre amp volume controllers on the market. Use the remote (or upgrade to the SE remote) and get rid of the knob to solve incompatibility gain issues created by the inferior intermediate device between your MAC and your speakers. Or use a mouse and the RME software controller to adjust the volume in real time.

 

[Bacchusoo7]

@amper42, I didn't realize you were talking about software, I thought your meant the hardware remote. @Hemi-Demon, thanks for clarifying. I didn't know that the software remote existed until now. I don't feel like it is a great solution to my current situation but I'm glad to learn this remote software exists. I've downloaded it and taken a look.

At to my situation, I just turned down the monitors a little, which seems to work with not huge noise ramifications (that I can hear). Though it's good to know that I could really just turn the ADI-2 down.

 

[rcstevensonaz]

At to my situation, I just turned down the monitors a little, which seems to work with not huge noise ramifications (that I can hear).

I believe that is the way to go. Reduce the gain on your monitors so that the normative volume range on the RME device aligns with your listening range. That would then allow RME's loudness function to have the greatest effect — a great feature of the RME that I think you are losing if you are adjusting volume using the Big Knob and keeping the RME volume at a constant level.

 

[Chazz6]

Strictly speaking the Big Knob is unnecessary, however I like the mono/dim/mute functions

Just to mention, the RME has mono and mute controls, too.

 

[Bacchusoo7]

Thanks for all of the input. I've changed my set up. I picked up a set of IK iLoud MTM MKII monitors and I'm going directly from the RME. I'm finding that I'm generally in the -65dB to -45dBr range (-5dBu Auto, setting)

It seems to sound fine, but I have no idea if that's more or less noisy technincally that my other set up. Though, if I can't hear it I suppose it doesn't matter too much.

 

[Matias]

It seems to sound fine, but I have no idea if that's more or less noisy technincally that my other set up. Though, if I can't hear it I suppose it doesn't matter too much.

Try using the lowest sensitivity of your monitors (-10dBV) because the ADI-2 should provide all the gain you need with lowest noise floor.

 

[Bacchusoo7]

Try using the lowest sensitivity of your monitors (-10dBV) because the ADI-2 should provide all the gain you need with lowest noise floor.

I just tried it switching to -10 and with the RME the same, the sound got louder and noisier. So, switching to that doesn't allow me to up the output on the RME.

So my options seem to be, leave it as is. Lower the gain at the monitors, or reinsert the Mackie Big Knob. Lowering the gain at the monitors is tricky because it's detented at 0 and goes down to infinity with no usable marks or clicks in between.

So the best solution seems to be leave it or Big knob?

 

[Matias]

I mean, use the lowest sensitivity (gain) on the monitors, and keep the ADI-2 using AutoRef=on, just turn the volume higher, and all should be good.

 

[Bacchusoo7]

-10 would be a higher sensitivity on the MTM side becuase it's expecting a low gain signal from consumer gear. The +4 makes more sense from the RME. With Auto on, I'm down in -65 or -60 range at comfortable listening levels. IF it is wise to drive the output higher on the RME, then the options are trying to adjust on the MTM's volume which is tricky business or re-insert the Mackie Big knob, which is passive but still has channel imbalance in the lower portions.

 

[Matias]

Oh, I got it wrong then. But the concept remains: lowest gain on the monitor, highest volume on ADI-2 using AutoRef=on ==> highest SNR chain. And no channel imbalance or possibly added distortion from the Machie Big Knob.