RCA Balanced In-Line Attenuator

Here's the solution to a problem from which far too many audiophiles suffer - too much gain in the system. The symptoms are easy enough to spot - the volume is loud enough with the volume control set to the 9 o'clock position, too loud with the volume control at 10 o'clock, and fine control at low levels is impossible.

This may seem minor irritation, but the system's performance is being compromised. Although potentiometers work reasonably well over most of their operating range, they are notoriously problematic at extreme settings. The most apparent problem is channel imbalance - one channel will fade out (or fade in) quicker than the other, causing the stereo image to shift to one side - but on a more subtle level, the music may sound veiled and indistinct with the volume control turned down to the point where it is nearly off. Some people have tried to cure the problem by fitting a more expensive volume control, only to find that it doesn't do much good. That's because the volume control isn't the problem.

It’s the excess gain in the system which is the real problem. That, in turn, forces you always to use the volume control over a very limited portion of its travel. What's needed is a way to reduce overall system gain without compromising sound quality and without significant modifications to the equipment itself.

The Rothwell In-Line Attenuators are the answer. These audiophile devices plug into any input sockets and reduce signal levels by 10dB (effectively halving the volume). They can be used with integrated amps or pre/power amps and are compatible with equipment over the entire price spectrum, from budget to extremely high-end.

When used with integrated amps (plug them into any input sockets, then plug the source component into the attenuators), the volume control will be two or three "hours" further around its range than it was before, giving better control at low levels and operating well away from the end stops. When used with pre/power amps, there is an added benefit.

Price: £67.24+vat +p&p