Lack of Volume

msm_1 · « **on:** 26 Jun 2010, 12:16 am »

Hi

I started up my system tonight, to listen to some vinyl.

Problem is......very little volume! I'm not one for loud music anyways, but, to get a mid or even low volume, my Rogue 99 is at 3/4 full!

I've never needed half ( so that says something ), what I hear, is clean, clear music with no static, or any other sounds that should not be coming out the 4's. I've checked everything, and even exchanged Pre's.

I checked the amps output, and it's fine, I replaced all cables and have run out of ideas

Any suggestions??

Thanks

Mike

WGH · « **Reply #1 on:** 26 Jun 2010, 01:47 am »

The gain knob was moved?

Wayne

JackD201 · « **Reply #2 on:** 26 Jun 2010, 08:04 am »

Hi Mike,

It looks like your phono section does not have enough gain for your cartridge. What cart and phonstage are you using?

Jack

msm_1 · « **Reply #3 on:** 28 Jun 2010, 01:31 am »

Hi Wayne and Jack

I'm using the R0gue 99 and Rogue 66 ( as a back up )

Both are Tubed, with a built in Phono section. I'm using a early Koetsu Black that has about 300 hours on it.

I am going to try a SS Pre, but feel either Rogue's, should have a, more then satisfactory Phono section to handle the Koetsu.

Will keep you informed

Thanks Again

Mike

JackD201 · « **Reply #4 on:** 28 Jun 2010, 01:48 am »

Hi Mike,

Have you checked your 99's phono section configuration? This is from your manual. The Koetsu Black has a .6mv output. You should be switched to HG and according to the manual below, switch to 12at7 tubes.

LG - Low Gain – use “l” switch setting

MG - Medium Gain – use “h” switch setting

HG - High Gain – use “h” switch setting

The optional all-tube phono section consists of two input tubes (12AX7), a passive RIAA equalization section, and an output section that can be configured in one of three gain levels to accommodate different cartridge output levels. Using 12AU7 tubes in the output amplification stage (the two tubes nearest the front of the unit) provides an overall gain of approximately 63dB. This is very satisfactory for moving magnet and moving coil cartridges with an output over 1mV. In this configuration the two small switches on the phono board should be in the “l” setting. An additional 10dB of gain can be realized by replacing the 12AU7 tubes with 12AT7 tubes. In this case the switches should be moved to the “h” position. This configuration is recommended for cartridge outputs of 0.4mV and up. 12AX7 tubes can also be used for even greater gain. It should be noted however that very low noise tubes must be used in the first gain stage (the two rear 12AX7 tubes) so that tube noise or “rush” is kept to a minimum.

Rogue Ninety-Nine Owners Manual page 2

msm_1 · « **Reply #5 on:** 29 Jun 2010, 11:13 pm »

Hi Jack

Yes, the switch is on 'h' but I never tried swapping the tubes ( maybe try that this weekend ).

My other Pre, the 66 has a gain of 40, but even with that, I figure I should have more volume then what I have ( 4 6dj8 tubes )

Thanks

Mike

JackD201 · « **Reply #6 on:** 30 Jun 2010, 12:50 am »

Anytime Mike

msm_1 · « **Reply #7 on:** 5 Jul 2010, 12:44 am »

Hi

I have replaced the tubes in the 99 and it did make a difference ( not quite where I want it but 80% better!! ).

Just to let you know, I was talking with Mark from Rogue. He said my other Pre ( the 66 ) was never meant for a cartridge with that low of an output. They are taking the 66 back in and will install a pair of step-up transformers ( using both Jensen and Cinemag transformers ) and he figures that will boost the gain closer to where it needs to be.

Funny, listening to both 66 and 99 on the digital end, I think I like the 66 better! So may wait and see what magic Rogue can work on the phono when it comes back and may put the 99 on the shelf as a backup.

Thanks again

Mike