Build a stereo passive pre-amp signal attenuator?

[YanKleber]

Hello,

I have a hi-fi stereo system sound with separate pre-amplifier (with source selector, tone control, etc) and power amplifier. I find my pre-amp great but the problem is that all of its controls are sliding style (including the volume that have separate sliders for R and L channels - this is a real pain!).

I'd like to know how hard is to build a small box with a single rotating stereo signal attenuator to place between my pre-amp and power. So basically the idea is to leave the volume controls of my pre at the maximum position and use the rotation knob to control the volume.

PS: my electronic knowledge is limited to solder things and basic recognition/comprehension of parts.

Thanks!

 

[ColinA123]

You are looking at a passive pre.
Classic "pot in a box"
Typical solution would be a 10K log pot (quality item, not cheap E-bay!) Or a stepped attenuator.
You can buy a ready made item if you search.

 

[rayma]

Very easy, making the holes is the hardest part. Use a steel or aluminum enclosure, and a good quality
10k ohm stereo volume control. Keep the box near the power amplifier, and connect with short cables.
All the jacks should be isolated from the box. A 10R is connected between each output ground and the chassis.

To adjust it, turn the new control all the way up. Adjust the sliding pots to the maximum volume
that you have ever used. Carefully adjust them for good balance. Leave them there, and now adjust
the new control down to your usual listening level.

Each channel should look like this:

 

[YanKleber]

Thank you fellows! I will give it a try!

 

[YanKleber]

I am looking for the pot and there's not too much options to chose for where I live. They have Alps RK27 but only 50k or 100k available. What happens if I use one of these instead 10k one?

Thanks!