Is attenuator same as master volume?

One common misconception is that a master volume control will achieve the same effect as an attenuator. However, because a master volume knob is still a part of the amplifier’s preamp section, it has an entirely different effect on the circuit — and therefore, the overall tone.

Do attenuators affect tone?

Tone changes In an ideal world, attenuators would allow you to use any amp at any volume level without any adverse effect on sound quality or reliability. In practice, the use of attenuation does change tone, but blaming the attenuator isn’t always justified.

What is pre amp attenuator?

Your preamp is attenuating the signal when you have it set to -dB, amplifying when it is set to +dB, and not changing the level when set to 0dB. It accomplishes this with a combination of an active stage that amplifies and a voltage divider volume control which attenuates.

Why would you use an attenuator?

Fixed attenuators in circuits are used to lower voltage, dissipate power, and to improve impedance matching. In measuring signals, attenuator pads or adapters are used to lower the amplitude of the signal a known amount to enable measurements, or to protect the measuring device from signal levels that might damage it.

Do attenuators get hot?

If there is a mismatch, the attenuator can get too hot. If there is a mismatch, the amp can also overload (or blow).

What is master volume on tube amp?

Master volume controls the power section of the amp. When the master volume is pushed hard, you get power amp distortion. This is warmer, smoother and has a spongier feel. Perfect for rock and blues.

What does Master knob on amp do?

On a guitar amplifier, GAIN controls the level of amplification through the preamp section. If no other volume knob exists on the amp, this acts as the “master” volume.

Can you attenuate a combo amp?

COMBO AMP: When using an attenuator with a combo amp, place the unit between the amp’s speaker out and the speaker itself. Most combo amps have internal speakers that can be unplugged from the amp chassis using a 1/4″ phone plug.

Should I get an attenuator for MY lar/Mar ppimv?

I have a Rockitt Retro ’68 spec 1987 (Marshall 50 watt “Lead” model) that has a LAR/MAR PPIMV and absolutely love both the amp and the PPIMV. The advantage to attenuators, obviously, is that you can use them with different amps, so if you have more than one amp that needs volume attenuation, an attenuator may be the better choice.

Should I use an attenuator or MV for my amp?

the more you use either an attenuator or an MV (any kind really) the more they effect you tone. So logically… just a bit of both would be optimal. There are a lot of ways to quiet a big amp… all of which compromise tone. Only you can decide what you’re willing to put up with though.

Should I get an attenuator or a volume regulator?

The advantage to attenuators, obviously, is that you can use them with different amps, so if you have more than one amp that needs volume attenuation, an attenuator may be the better choice. But if it’s just the one amp that you want to control the volume on, I’d recommend the PPIMV option.