I am in the process of ripping SACDs and Concert BluRays for playback over my HTPC running Dirac Live (lynx out into 3 x 2 channel DACs). Somehow many of the SACD rips have pretty low peak volume level. Using Dirac filters also cuts some gain. So now I am finding my maximum volume level I can play it is constrained by my lowest sensitivity speaker, which is my center channel. This is my Linn Klimax 340A, which plays about 10db lower than my surrounds and mains. I find myself playing at 0dB, and I can no longer jack up the volume of some live recordings to the level I want to listen to sometimes. My estimation is I am short about 10dB. On option is to get a more sensitive center channel (e.g. B&W HTM2 Diamond, which is 90dB). However, this means swapping out gear, adding an amp (the Linn is active), and potential issues matching the diamond tweeter sound with the ribbons in my mains (Evolution Acoustics MM3). Other option is to add a tube buffer stage with 10dB gain to the signal path of my center channel. I can have one custom build, or buy one.
Any other thoughts on ways to get my volume level up for MCH playback.
Any suggestion on the tube buffer with 10dB gain? Does such a device exists or should I have it custom build.
Anyone knows of a center channel at least 90dB sensitive that would potentially integrate well with the MM3s
evolution acoustics sells its own center channel, but it is 87dB and would not solve my (lack of) gain problem.
Any other thoughts on ways to get my volume level up for MCH playback.
Any suggestion on the tube buffer with 10dB gain? Does such a device exists or should I have it custom build.
Anyone knows of a center channel at least 90dB sensitive that would potentially integrate well with the MM3s
evolution acoustics sells its own center channel, but it is 87dB and would not solve my (lack of) gain problem.