I have to max out the volume on the PWD when listening to certain sources. Switching between the USB input on my computer and the coax input on my Sony transport, I have noticed that the volume control is almost maxed out always. I switched from single ended cables to balanced because the balanced sounded better. I recall reading somewhere that one of the cables gave you more gain, but don’t remember which. My question is: Can the volume control on the PWD be adjusted for more gain?
Balanced cables usually sound louder. The PWD only goes up to 100. There is no other gain adjustment (unlike the DS, which also has a -20 dB attenuator).
Balanced provides a 6dB greater level. The difference is not subtle. But this assumes the receiving unit (preamp or amp) is truly balanced as well.