So I wanted to give a stepped attenuator a shot in the Moreplay because I was having issues with low volume combined with a Muzishare X7 KT88 amplifier setup to run as a power amplifier. It turns out I may have damaged the balance control on the Moreplay by trying to re-solder it (too many times probably) and made it unusable. So, I ordered one of those $30 10K ones from a US seller and wired the Moreplay to bypass the balance control. I actually decided to remove the control and wire in 100K resistors at the sockets.
After I measured everything, I hooked it up and was really happy with the result and perfect balance. The steps for both sides of the attenutor measured perfectly, so whoever made it did a great job with resistor matching. I have the luxury of having a prefect geometric near field speaker setup (Klipsch RF7 II). I've been trying out the KT88 amp for a while and the Streomour II was offline but put it back in the setup and all I could think was WOW, what a beautiful sounding setup. And it is NOT lacking in power and NOT bass shy nor bass quality shy. Anyone reporting thin sound, it's most likely the mastering of the media. The Stereomour II BRINGS IT! The Moreplay / Stereomour II (with Mourquiet) setup with stepped attenuators in both is just phenomenal. There are so many steps of control, there is no issue getting the volume to where it's perfect. The Stereomour hasn't needed to be moved off max volume yet, so all control is with Moreplay.
It's so good that I don't plan to return to the balance control. And I ordered one of those custom laser etched face plates (4x2 ... $10) to cover up the hole. I still plan to order the upgrade for the power improvements. I've learned with my other Bottlehead units that when upgrades are offered, just buy them because they always improve things. It won't hurt to have the Alps pots on hand in case I ever want to change back to a stock configuration. Anyway, I wanted to share the experience. My Bottlehead gear never ceases to entertain!
