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Breakin Period and db volume


MotorHead

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Here's a couple real rookie questions:

First, my Kenwood 7080 uses a db scale for volume. It runs from about -48 to +13. At 0db, it's pretty much rockin'! What does this scale mean, if anything, in terms of power output?

Second, My new R3 system (2-RF3II's, 2-RS3II's, RC3II and KSW12) was delivered this week, and I've pretty much ignored the breakin period. I haven't knocked any pictures off the wall, but close. How much trouble am I in? (sorry, but I shouldn't have put on Momentary Lapse of Reason...my finger simply ignored my pleas to stop raising the volume!!)

(I did post this question in another thread, but I don't think it was relevant to that forum, so I thought I'd try it here)

Thanks!

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The indicators on your volume knob are mostly just relative indications to give you some idea of where you are on the power spectrum for that unit. In essence, I believe, it is saying that you are either attenuating the pre-amp signal into the amp portion of the receiver (the - db numbers) or you are boosting the signal (the + db numbers). At 0, the pre-amp is running its standard level into the amp section - no boost or attenuation.

Forget about break-in. Just listen to them, and don't hurt yourself.

DD

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The +/- db markings on your dial men nothing because the manufacturer is incapable of knowing the sensitivity rating of your or anyone else's speakers. At best the 0 db rating may represent the manufacturer's best guess as to the point at which the amp might reasonably be expected to be putting out 50% power driving speakers of ordinarilly expected sensitivity ( 90db/watt/metre ).

Simply set the amp to what sounds best to you and rock and roll !

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Actually, +3 dB should mean that the amp is putting out twice as much power as at 0 dB. -3 dB half as much power. Doesn't have anything to do with speaker sensitivity or SPL. It is just a way of indicating relative power.

In any case, just enjoy your speakers.

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