Gain Settings
Gain settings are the selectable amplification levels, commonly labelled Low, Medium or High.
Where supplied, a decibel value describes the gain of each position. These settings are separate from the volume-control steps and from a simple count of gain modes.
Gain Settings — Digital Audio Player
On a portable player, gain selection changes the relationship between the incoming audio level and the headphone output. A suitable setting can provide a useful volume-control range for headphones with different sensitivities.
Compare the actual gain values and the output modes to which they apply. Higher gain does not automatically mean higher maximum power or better sound. Recheck the volume when changing gain because the same volume-control position can then produce a different output level.
Gain Settings — Headphone Amp
On a headphone amplifier, gain settings help match the source level and headphone sensitivity to the available volume-control range. The named positions can have different values on different amplifiers.
Compare the decibel values, not just labels such as “High.” Keep any input or output conditions with the setting. More gain is not always useful with a strong source and sensitive headphones, and the gain-switch positions should not be confused with the number of volume steps.