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Cole with Volume Control

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Hi All,
I'm considering the Cole Kit. Does the Cole have enough voltage/proper output impedance to directly drive an amplifier without connecting to a linestage? If so, could a high quality volume control be fitted and where in the circuit should the volume control reside?
I ask because my CD player and tuner both have output controls. I don't want to have to buy a separate preamp, besides the CD player and Tuner sound better without one. I'd rather just switch RCA's for the source I'm using at the time, if I can get a phono stage with a volume control.
Thanks,
Erik

Follow Ups:

Re: Cole with Volume Control - bryan 08:11:14 12/15/04 (2)
One factor related to whether this would work or not depends on the output of your cartridge. If it's a LO MC it might not work well even using a 10X stepup. Your amp and speakers would also be a factor. I have been using an EAR 834P with alps volume (50K) and when using a Denon 103R (~.3mV) with 10X stepup it is borderline. Using a Shelter 501 (.4mV) is not borderline. I don't know for sure, but I suspect a MM cartridge would be ok.
I believe the pot in the 834P is right at the output of the circuit from what I can see on the circuit board.
I do like going direct to amp because it is more transparent, and sounds really good with a tube phonostage. I also have a hybrid preamp and when its in the system the sound is more dynamic for sure, but not as transparent and smooth.
- Re: Cole with Volume Control - longdrive55 22:14:46 12/15/04 (1)
  Bryan,
  The 834p w/ volume control is the other option I'm considering at this point, or I may build an RCA Phono preamp I found online. I saw an 834p recently that had some very easy mods which significantly reduced the noise floor down 6db at 63hz and 15db at 200hz. Mods included: Hexfred diodes, 18 gauge rewire/reroute, and shielding on volume control wiring. How do you like the 834p? If this conversation is not appropriate for this forum, email me and we can continue there.
  Thanks,
  Erik
  - Re: Cole with Volume Control - bryan 07:24:55 12/16/04 (0)
    I do like the 834P, Erik. I have replaced the stock coupling caps in mine, and that made a big difference by increasing transparency, removing some of the darkness the 834P is known for. I haven't done any of the mods you mention but I could how they could lower the noise floor. Are you aware there are a lot of other mods that can be done to the 834P? You say you saw one. Did you hear it too?
    Bryan
Re: Cole with Volume Control - bcherry 17:04:50 12/13/04 (0)
The Cole has puts out about half the voltage of a CDP and low enough output impedance to drive a tube amp. For example in our system with the LD SRPP driver, the volume would be running close to wide open at realistic listening levels. With the Ella, about 3/4. With three sources to manage, the volume pot at the input of the amp would be more convenient and consistent. A second/third set of RCA jacks and a toggle switch (if space allows) would save you from swapping cables.
Brian
Take control! DIY.

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