Glossary term

Selectable Gain

Selectable Gain indicates whether an amplifier offers switchable or stepped amounts of signal amplification.

The settings may be labelled low and high or given as numerical gain values. Changing gain alters the relationship between the input signal and the available output. This differs from a volume control, which adjusts listening level within the selected operating arrangement.

Selectable Gain — Headphone Amp

A lower gain can provide a more useful volume-control range with sensitive headphones or a strong source signal. A higher setting may help when more output voltage is needed, provided the amplifier can supply it without exceeding its limits. Choose the setting for the actual source and headphone combination.

Reduce volume before changing gain and follow the model’s switching instructions. High gain is not automatically higher fidelity and does not remove current or power limits. The feature entry establishes that choices exist; the number of settings, their values and any output-specific restrictions belong in the detailed specification.