[JDUBS]

Guys

I'm not sure if it exists but is there a 4-channel amp out there that has separate gain controls (ideally stepped attenuators) for each channel or each pair of channels?

Thanks,
Jim

[WC]

The Class D Audio SDS amps have an adjustable gain for each channel. These are generally a DIY amp project, but they do sell complete amps as does Blair at Nightshade.

http://classdaudio.com/

[srb]

I haven't come across any multi-channel power amplifiers with stepped attenuator type gain controls, but if you go with either a DIY or custom Class D Audio amplifier, they can easily replace the standard potentiometer gain controls.
 
I don't think anyone has done this yet because either they intended to measure the potentiometer setting and replace them with fixed resistors or because quality stepped attenuators were too expensive.
 
Steve

[skunark]

Not exactly 4-channel amps, very few of those exist, these have gain controls, but not sure what type of attenuators:
NAD's M25 7-channel amp
Rotel's RMB-1506 6-channel amp
Parasound's NewClassic Model 5250 5-channel amp

Bryston's Pro line might offer gain controls as well, the consumer line has toggle switch for two gain settings.  The 9B can be configured as a 4-channel amp.

[JDUBS]

Thanks fellas.  I kind of like the class-d approach.  I'll let you know what I end up with.

-Jim

[JDUBS]

Guys, I chose to head down the Class-D audio route.  Tom at Class-D was extremely helpful and they will be putting together a 4-channel amp for me based on 2x of the SDS-254 amp modules.  It will have switchable single-ended and balanced inputs and there will be two stepped attenuators on the back of the amp for adjusting the gain of each amp module.  This should hopefully allow me to dial-in things on my 3-way active system, easier.

Will also help me reduce some clutter.  Now it will be hackintosh->TC Konnekt 48->Class D amp and Rythmik sub amps->3 way active speakers (unity horns plus h-frame bass arrays designed by GR Research).

Tom said it should be about 7-10 days to get the amp built and tested.  Looking forward to it!

-Jim