TKD stepped attenuator

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denjo

TKD stepped attenuator
« on: 6 Nov 2006, 06:52 am »
Hi Fellow Audiocirclers
I have a topflight TKD stepped attenuator fitted into my modded McCormack ALD-1 preamp. The sound is exceptional especially at low levels - the volume retains all the dynamics and transparency! However, I have a very irritating problem with the volume. Every time I turn the detented volume either up or down, I hear an annoying "ticking" sound from my speakers! It is quite loud and sounds like static noise! I have tried to place one hand on my hifi rack while my right controls the volume, as an attempt to drain any static electricity in my hands, but no to avail. What seems to be the cause of this noise and how do I cure it?
Many thanks in advance for any help/advice that might help!
Best Regards
Dennis

DSK

Re: TKD stepped attenuator
« Reply #1 on: 6 Nov 2006, 07:12 am »
Hi Dennis, is it the 41-step TKD 2P65CS pictured here http://www.thlaudio.com/indexE.htm?

I use the 25k version of this attenuator and have never had a single noise from it. Does it do it every time, and since it was first installed?

BTW, PM me and I'll tell you about a great mod for this attenuator (improves dynamics, transparency and detail).

mgalusha

Re: TKD stepped attenuator
« Reply #2 on: 6 Nov 2006, 03:41 pm »
This can be caused by DC being present at the volume pot (stepped attenuator). A little more info can be found on the GoldPoint site. http://www.goldpt.com/info.html - scroll down to the which type sounds best.

denjo

Re: TKD stepped attenuator
« Reply #3 on: 8 Nov 2006, 02:41 am »
Mgalusha

Many thanks for the interesting and relevant url link. I now have a better understanding of stepped attenuators and hope that my problem is as described which appears to be quite simple to fix.

Best Regards
Dennis