Odd for sure.
I use a Crown XLS 1500. Driven directly from my DAC via RCA's (figure on 2v output at max volume on the DAC), I have the gain pots set at 2pm. I use banana plugs, but my speaker outputs were replaced with Pomono posts on the amp.
With my 85db Maggies I cannot max the digital volume on my DAC or it gets way too loud.
Switching to my Nuforce preamp, using the XLR inputs - gain maxed on DAC, gain at 2pm on Crown, same use of banana's for speaker connection - I cannot put my Nuforce volume past 75-80 of 100 or it gets way too loud.
Using significantly higher sensitivity speakers, you should have plenty of power for sure.
