Maximum Input Level (Unbalanced)
Maximum input level is the highest signal voltage a preamp’s RCA line input accepts under the stated test conditions. Exceeding it can overload the input and distort the sound.
Input sensitivity means the voltage needed for rated output, not the overload limit. Balanced-input and phono-input limits describe different inputs; they cannot replace the RCA line-input figure.
Maximum Input Level (Unbalanced) — Preamp
Compare your source’s maximum output voltage with this limit. Keeping the source below it leaves room before input overload.
Use matching voltage units and conventions. RMS expresses alternating voltage as an equivalent steady voltage with the same heating effect; peak is the highest instantaneous value. Check the test frequency and permitted distortion too; missing conditions are not proof of matching tests.
“At least 5 V” means the input accepts 5 V under those conditions and may accept more. It does not identify exactly where overload begins.
Sources
- Signal levels and input overload — Yamaha
- Input sensitivity and maximum input signal — McIntosh
- Frequency, distortion and input-limit conditions — Yamaha
- RMS voltage explained — Fluke